Srinagar, July 13, Amid Covid-19 lockdown like situation, authorities imposed tough restrictions in various parts of Srinagar in order to avoid any law and order situation on Monday, in view of the Martyrs day.
It was for the second time after the abrogation of Article 370 last August that no one including the mainstream politicians was allowed to offer traditional Fateh Khwani at Mazar e Shuhada at the shrine of Khwaja Naqashband Sahib, in the downtown area of Srinagar.
Security around the residences of Kashmir’s top religious cleric Mirwaiz Dr. Molvi Muhammad Umar Farooq and pro-freedom leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who are placed under house arrest, since months was further strengthened.
Meanwhile, vehicular movement was restrained in uptown Srinagar, by eructating barricades and concertina wires at important entry and exit points.
Meanwhile, all shops, business establishments, and other commercial establishments throughout the valley remained closed, while public transport was off the roads. Mostly CRPF and police personnel were seen dotting the roads, news gathering agency CNS reported.
It was on July 13th, 1931, when 22 Kashmiris were gunned down by the army of autocratic Dogra ruler after the people rose against Maharaja’s rule for their rights.In the old city, the force personnel wearing battle fatigue patrolled the lanes and by-lanes in a bid to restrict and thwart any protests.
In Nowhatta, Safakadal, Zainakadal Rainawari, MR Gunj, and other places, the forces had erected hurdles to restrict the movement of people.
In north Kashmir’s Baramulla, Sopore, Zainageer, Rafiabad, Kupwara, Ajas, Hajin, and Bandipora, complete shutdown was observed.
The shops remained closed and no public transport plied on the roads except for some skeletal private transport. The situation in the volatile South Kashmir, however, remained peaceful. People observed complete strike in Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama, Shopian, and other areas. The shutdown was also observed in Budgam and Ganderbal district of Central Kashmir. (CNS)
