Strict curfew and communication blockade continued in the Valley for the 15th consecutive day Saturday.Clashes broke out between protestors and forces in Kashmir at Batmaloo. Scores of people assembled at Batmaloo chowk and raised pro-freedom and anti-Indian slogans.Protesters alleged that police carried out nocturnal raids in the area and arrested a few youth. Forces immediately swung into action and fired tear smoke shells to quell the protestors. Strict curfew was immediately imposed again in the area.Clashes between forces and protestors were also reported from Karanagar, Habba Kadal, Chotta Bazar, Zalgadar, Tinki Pora, Kani Kadal in Srinagar city. Mobile phones and internet services remained suspended in the Valley, however, only BSNL Broadband and post-paid services are being allowed to operate. Train services also remained suspended.
However, top official sources told KNS that they have orders from top brass that where ever situation seems limping to normal curfew should be lifted.The unrest erupted after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander, Burhan Muzaffar Wani, by forces in Bumdoora village of Kokernag in Anantnag district on July 8 evening.Top Hurriyat leaders including Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, JKLF chief Muhammad Yasin Malik on Wednesday extended the strike call up to July 25. Separatists have appealed the people to continue the shutdown till Monday. (KNS)