Restrictions in Kashmir as separatists call for march against civilian’s killing

Separatist leaders called for a shutdown after a 22-year-old student from Shopian was killed on Tuesday

Authorities imposed restrictions in several areas of Kashmir on Friday to foil a march called by separatists to Shopian against the killing of a 22-year-old student by security forces earlier this week.

Deserted streets during a curfew in Srinagar on Friday as separatist leaders called for a shutdown against the killing of a civilian in Shopian district. (Waseem Andrabi / HT Photo)

The valley’s separatist leaders called for a shutdown after Adil Ahmed of the southern district of Shopian was killed on Tuesday night. Ahmed was hit by a bullet in the chest when a stone-pelting mob clashed with forces to distract them from a cordon and search operation in the area.

“Joint resistance leadership said that to express people’s resentment and indignation against the brutal killing of young Adil Ahmed Magray by the Indian forces and to express complete solidarity with the bereaved family complete strike will be observed on Friday the 9th of June across the valley and after Friday prayers peaceful protest will be held across the valley against the killing,” the separatists said in a statement.

They also asked people from all over south Kashmir to march towards Shopian to Ahmed’s residence.

Most shops and business establishments remained closed, while a few vehicles were seen on the streets. All educational institutions were shut down to prevent students from protesting and the Kashmir University postponed all exams scheduled for the day.

A woman walks with her child during the strike in Srinagar on Friday.

Train services between Baramulla and Bannihal towns were also suspended.

Authorities also cut off high-speed mobile internet service in Kashmir late on Tuesday night and continue to be suspended. People could use 2G services only.

The militancy-hit state has been rocked by months of unrest and stone pelting over alleged human rights abuses by security forces.

The valley witnessed a fresh spell of protests after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Sabzar Bhat last month. Curfew was imposed and a shutdown observed for three days after the killing of Bhat and an accomplice.