Curfew relaxed at last, but Kashmir Valley still on edge

Curfew was lifted for 24 hours in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir, barring the volatile Anantnag district, on Friday evening, bringing respite to the people. In New Delhi, Home Ministry officials indicated that the next 24 to 48 hours - particularly the situation on Saturday – would be crucial. HT reports. Tension in Valley: Pics | Factbox: What's happening in troubled Kashmir | Podcast

Curfew was lifted for 24 hours in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir, barring the volatile Anantnag district, on Friday evening, bringing respite to the people.

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As restrictions were lifted at 8 pm, people came onto the streets and markets to buy essential commodities and medicines but were disappointed to find most shops closed.

Within minutes of curfew being lifted, security forces had to resort to firing rubber bullets at a group of protesters in Nowhatta area of the old city. No one was seriously injured.

Long queues could be seen at ATMs as people went about their business after being cooped up at home or in their offices since Tuesday.

Mosques near the main roads were bustling with activity soon after lifting of restrictions. They were out of bounds during the day when prayers were allowed at some places of worship in the interiors of the city on Friday.

“We don’t see how the situation will turn but the free hours are a real relief,” said 45-year-old bank employee Abdul Majeed.

Earlier, the Grand Mufti of Kashmir Mufti Bashiruddin appealed to the authorities relax the curfew in view of Shab-e-Mehraj, an auspicious day for Muslims. “I also appeal to the people to remain peaceful and not resort to violence,” he said.

The Congress Core Committee which met on Friday, expressed satisfaction over J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s decision to hold a meeting with legislators on Sunday and an all-party meeting on Monday to discuss the course of action.