Curfew, separatist shutdown cripple Kashmir for 30th day

Srinagar: Curfew and restrictions continued to be imposed in most place in Kashmir on Sunday to contain violence and protests, leaving the valley paralysed for the 30th consecutive day.

Curfew will continue in Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian, Pulwama and Kupwara towns while restrictions will remain in force in Srinagar city, Badgam, Sopore, Bandipora and Baramulla towns, a senior police official said.

Separatists have already extended their protest shutdown till August 12.

The separatists have been issuing weekly protest calendars since the ongoing violence began in the valley on July 9, a day after Hizbul commander Burhan Wani was killed in a gunfight with the security forces.

At least 55 people including 53 civilians and two policemen have been killed so far in the violence.

All educational institutions including schools, colleges and universities as well as public transport and business establishments have remained closed.

Skeletal staff has been managing banks, post offices and government offices during this period.

All separatist leaders have been placed under preventive detention in Srinagar.