Srinagar, Even though the situation remained by and large peaceful after the death of separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani on Wednesday night, strict restrictions continued for the second day today in the Kashmir valley.
Concerned about rumours being spread on social media despite suspension of internet services in Kashmir valley, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, K Vijay Kumar has requested general public not to pay heed to the rumours being spread by the Anti-National Elements (ANE) especially across the border who are trying to take undue advantage of the situation and to disturb the peaceful atmosphere.
Appreciating the cooperation of the general public in maintaining peace, Mr Kumar said restrictions and internet shutdown will continue. However, he said, situation will be reviewed after Friday prayers to take further course of action.
Police said situation remained by and large peaceful and there was no report of any major untoward incident during the past 36 hours.
Meanwhile, unprecedented security arrangements have been made in Srinagar and other parts of the valley to foil any attempt to disrupt peace. Shops and business establishments remained closed in Srinagar and other major towns in the Kashmir valley.
A number of roads were closed by security forces in some parts of Srinagar, including down town, old city and uptown. However, private vehicles were seen plying in the civil lines. At some places security forces were checking identity cards of those travelling in the vehicles. Passenger vehicles, including cabs and three wheelers remained off the roads.
All roads leading to Hyderpora, the residence Geelani remained closed for any pedestrian or traffic movement. However, those having valid air ticket were being allowed to move towards airport. Nobody, including women, who had come from nearby localities to express condolence, were not allowed to enter Geelani’s house.
Woking in the offices and banks was also affected as majority employees could not make it to their offices due to restrictions and non availability of transport facility.
A large number of newspapers—Urdu and English—were not published due to internet suspension. They also could not updated their on-line editions also.
(EW correspondent)
