Curfew imposed in Indian-held Kashmir to prevent pro-Pakistan rallies

Separatist leaders were detained and authorities imposed curfew-like restrictions in capital Srinagar and some parts of Kashmir Valley.

The capital city has been virtually turned into a virtual fortress with all the roads leading to Bakshi Stadium, where the main I-Day function will be held, blocked by barricades where commuters and pedestrians are being frisked to prevent any untoward incident.

Reports said many offices and educational institutes in the city were closed on Friday due to heightened security measures with markets wearing a deserted look and minimal movement of traffic on the roads.

“The restrictions have been imposed to prevent youth from waving or hoisting Pakistani flags on the eve of Pakistan’s Independence Day today,” a police official said.

However, reports said Pakistani flags were hoisted in an old city locality on Friday and Khudwani area of Kulgam on Thursday with jubilant youth shouting pro-Pakistan and anti-India slogans.

Amid fears of militant strike, restrictions have also been imposed in major towns of Kashmir Valley including Baramulla, Pulwama, Anantnag, Sopore and Shopian.

Meanwhile, the Hurriyat leaders have been placed under house arrest. JKLF chairman Yasin Malik was detained on Wednesday while trying to reach Pulwama to express solidarity with the family of slain youth, Bilal Ahmed, who was killed by BSF troopers on Tuesday. Malik is presently held at Kothibagh police station.