Clashes reported in parts of Srinagar, elsewhere in Valley

Ehsan Fazili

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, August 30

Curfew was lifted in most places in the Kashmir on Tuesday even as clashes were reported in certain parts of Srinagar and elsewhere in the Valley as unrest enters its 53rd day.

However, curfew remained in force in areas falling under two police stations —  Nowhatta and MR Gunj — in downtown Srinagar, and the Pulwama town of south Kashmir.

Despite restrictions in other areas of the city, reports of stone pelting and clashes trickled in from Batamaloo and Noorbagh on Tuesday morning. Police said some protesters set up road blockades at entries into the city.

Although vehicle traffic resumed in many parts of the Valley, shops and commercial establishments remained closed. Government offices recorded sparse attendance. Educational institutions have been closed since violent protests began after militant commander Buhan Wani was killed by security forces nearly two months ago. Seventy people — two policemen among them — have been killed and thousands have been injured in the protests.  

Security forces killed Wani in an operation on July 8.

An all-party Parliamentary delegation headed by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will arrive in the state’s winter capital on Sunday to hold talks with local leaders and find a solution to the crisis. This will be Singh’s third visit since the protests began.