Curfew imposed in parts of Occupied Kashmir on 14 August

SRINAGAR: Indian authorities have imposed restrictions on public gatherings in parts of Srinagar on Monday – Pakistan’s Independence Day – following the killings of two civilians in South Kashmir yesterday.

The curbs have been imposed in Nowhatta, Rainawari, Khanyar, M.R. Gunj, and Safakadal areas of the city.

Albeit, the officials stated that these restrictions have been imposed to maintain law and order situation after killings of two civilians but many political analysts view restrictions as an attempt to prevent Kashmiris holding pro-Pakistan demonstrations on its 70^th Independence Day.

All educational institutions including schools, colleges and universities have been closed in the valley.

Section 144 of the CrPC – prohibits an assembly of more than four people in an area – has been imposed. Officials said the precautionary steps were taken to avoid law-and-order incidents in the aftermath of Sunday’s violence.

On Sunday, two youngsters — Owais Shafi and Mohammad Sayeed Bhat — were killed in security forces’ action against stone-pelting mobs in Pulwama and Shopian districts respectively.

22-year-old Shafi sustained multiple pellet injuries who succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Another youth 25-year-old Bhat was killed in a separate incident of firing by security forces.

Meanwhile, Pakistan is celebrating its 70th Independence Day on Monday with patriotic fervour with commemorative ceremonies across the country.