Indefinite curfew in south Kashmir after mob violence

SRINAGAR - An indefinite curfew was imposed Wednesday in south Kashmir towns of Anantnag, Kulgam and Pulwama while it continued without any relaxation for the fifth day in north Kashmir’s Sopore town and for the second day in Old City areas here to curb widespread violence.

Following the deaths of three teenagers in Anantnag town Tuesday, violence had broken out there with mobs burning vehicles inside a state road transport yard and a petrol pump, besides setting fire to a police post and many shops.

Mobs also took to the streets in other parts of south Kashmir Tuesday afternoon and continued to vent their anger against security men whom they blamed for the killing of the teenagers.

“An indefinite curfew has been imposed in Anantnag, Kulgam and Pulwama towns while it continues to be in force in Old City areas falling under seven police stations in Srinagar and north Kashmir’s Sopore town,” a senior police officer said here.

“People are requested not to defy the curfew restrictions since its imposition is necessary to protect civilian life and property from the designs of anti-social elements,” he added.

Life across the Valley has been paralysed for the last four days because of violence in which eight people have been killed.

Breaking his silence over the deteriorating law and order situation, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday condoled the deaths that had occurred here.

He added that the security forces would enforce curfew wherever necessary, but with the caveat of utmost restraint.