Curfew-like restrictions in SeK, downtown, parts of Civil Lines in Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 2 : Curfew-like restrictions had been imposed since early this morning in the Shehar-e-Khas and downtown, besides parts of Civil Lines in Srinagar as a precautionary measure following strike called by separatists against the killing of two civilians in security force firing on demonstrators in Pulwama, where two Lashker-e-Toiba militants, including a wanted commander Abu Dujana, were killed in an encounter yesterday. Officials told that restrictions under Section 144 of CrPC have been imposed under the jurisdictions of Police Stations Nowhatta, M R Gunj, Rainawari, Khanyar and Safakadal in the down town and SeK, besides Kralkhud in the old city and Maisuma in Civil Lines in Srinagar district as a precautionary measure to avoid any untoward incident. However, the situation on the ground was entirely different as security forces have closed majority of roads with barbed wire and people were being directed to remain indoors. The main gates of historic Jamia Masjid, stronghold of moderate HC Mirwaiz Moulvi Omar Farooq, have again been closed. Hundreds of security forces and state police personnel, wearing bullet proof jackets and holding automatic weapons, have been deployed outside the historic Masjid, where no Friday prayers could be offered due to restrictions for the past about seven weeks. A large number of security forces were also deployed in the Jamia market and nobody was allowed to enter the area. The main Nallahmar road from Parimpora to Khanyar has also been closed with barbed wire at several places. Security forces have established 'nakas' in majority areas in downtown and SeK, including at Rajouri Kadal, Nawa Kadal, Rangar Stop, Nowhatta and Zaina Kadal to prevent any traffic or pedestrian movement. The road to S K Institute of Medical Sciences was through though only patients, ambulances and paramedical staff were being allowed.UNI