Stone-pelting cases reported, forces restrain themselves
Srinagar simmered with resentment for the fifth consecutive day on Friday even as a little relaxation from curfew was given to the masses.
According to ground reports, fresh clashes between security forces and stone-pelters were reported from areas of downtown Srinagar. Exercising utmost caution, security forces handled the situation “coolly”.
Since Monday, over one dozen civilians, participating in protest demonstrations against the scrapping of Article 370 and 35-A, have been admitted in different city hospitals including super-specialty SKIMS following clashes with the security forces. Majority of the injured have received pellet injuries.
Meanwhile, due to strong presence of security forces on the ground zero, normal life remain paralysed in areas of downtown Srinagar and other vulnerable areas, prone to sporadic incidents of stone-pelting.
The communication and internet services remain blocked across parts of Kashmir Valley to check rumour mongering.
On its part, the district administration is receiving rush of parents, who were eager to get in touch with their children studying/working outside the State via helpline. Restricted movement of vehicles, heading towards city hospitals, airport and bus station have been permitted on verification of identity cards by the security forces.
In Jammu, situation remained peaceful on Friday. Worshippers offered prayers across different religious places. No untoward incident was reported from the region.
As Section 144 of the CrPC was lifted, educational institutions will open from August 10. Preparations for Bakr-id got underway in parts of Jammu.
Addressing a Press conference in Jammu, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Sanjeev Verma told reporters, life is returning to normalcy in the Jammu region with every passing hour. He said the Government agencies have been entrusted to ensure supply of ration to the masses.