Life returns to normal in Kulgam, Shopian after two days strike

Srinagar, Sept 27: Life returned to normal with resumption of business and other activities in Kulgam and Shopian in south Kashmir after two-day strike. Strike was observed yesterday in Kulgam against braid chopping incidents while in Shopian, people were demanding action against the driver of “Rakshak” vehicle of police who allegedly hit and killed a motorcyclist and injured pillion rider on September 24 evening. There was strike in the valley, including Kulgam and Shopian, on September 25 on a call by Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) against summoning of its president Mohammad Yaseen Khan by National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with terror funding case. The strike was also supported by transporters and separatists, who also protested against summoning of Kashmir University (KU) scholar by the NIA. Both were questioned by the investigating agency during the past two days. Shops and business establishments reopened this morning and traffic also resumed on all routes in Kulgam, where people are up in arms against braid chopping incidents. Work in government offices, bank and educational institutions was also normal today. The strike was called off after Deputy Commissioner, Kulgam, Talat Parvez assured the agitators that an FIR has been registered and investigating take up by the police. On the allegation that Army was supporting some persons involved in the braid chopping incidents, Mr Parvez said everything will be investigated. “I have taken up the matter with the Army officials who totally denied any involvement in the braid chopping incidents”, he said, adding that the Army has been conducting night patrolling to foil any militant attack. However, people of the area alleged that they chased a suspect who later was protected by Army patrol party. They further alleged that they seized helmets of Army personnel when they were chasing the suspect on the night of September 26. UNI