India re-imposes curfew in Kashmir

Protesters take to streets against authorities highhandedness

SRINAGAR: Indian authorities re-imposed curfew in parts of Kashmir on Monday following fresh clashes between protesters and security forces hours after the government announced an end to the 52-day lockdown.

Restrictions had been lifted early morning in most parts of the disputed Himalayan state, including the main city of Srinagar, but thousands of protesters took to the streets, forcing the authorities to re-impose the curfew in several areas.

At least 68 people and two police officers have been killed and thousands injured since unrest erupted after the July 8 murder of a popular Kashmiri separatist. At least 12 people were injured in Monday’s wave of violence, police and hospital officials said.

Hundreds of residents rallied in parts of Srinagar and in the northern town of Bandipora after the curfew was lifted, throwing stones at security forces who fired live rounds into the air and teargas to disperse them.

All Parties Hurriyet Conference Chairman Syed Ali Geelani addressed the Bandipora rally over telephone from Srinagar. He appealed to the people to remain steadfast, as people pledged to continue the ongoing movement.

Clashes were also reported in Budgam and Anantnag districts. Schools and businesses remained closed and many streets in Srinagar were largely deserted as troops in riot gear patrolled on foot.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 30^th, 2016.