Kashmir on o6 September 2010

GoI be given time to examine Geelani’s points: Omar

Says efforts on to break ice on K-issue

Srinagar: Stating that sustained dialogue was imperative to settle political tension once for all, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Monday called for providing time to Government of India to examine five-conditions put forth by Chairman of his faction of Hurriyat Conference Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

“Mr Geelani has put forward some points. We should give time to the government of India to examine them and provide its reply,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said in response to a question by reporters after inauguration of a grid station in Kotbalwal area in Jammu.

Omar also obliquely urged New Delhi to look into the demands in optimistically, asserting: “I hope that Centre shall give such a response that will improve situation in Kashmir.”

The veteran leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani has set five conditions for reviewing the ongoing strike protests and threatened to intensify agitation incase the “five minimum” demands were not met.

The minimum necessary conditions set forth by Geelani including that India must agree Jammu Kashmir as an international dispute, Announce and begin the process of complete demilitarization, to be monitored by some credible agency like UN, Repeal “black laws” such as AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act), PSA (Public Safety Act), Immediate and unconditionally release of detainees and booking perpetrators of ‘state violence’ that claimed over 65 people.

Omar also called upon every person with a representative character to come forward and helped resolve the Kashmir issue even as he stated that no one would claim to be a lone representative of the people in Kashmir.

On Armed Forces Special Powers Act, Omar said that two options were being worked out. One, he said, is to amend the stringent sections of the AFSPA and made it soft while other is to remove it in a phased manner from areas where there is near zero militancy and no role of the Army.

“An exercise is also being undertaken in to identify districts with near there is least or no militancy,” he said.

Earlier, addressing public gatherings at Balwal (Jammu) and Budhal (Rajouri), the chief minister said that efforts were on to break the ice on Kashmir issue.

“In order to remove the political tension once for all, it is necessary to settle issues through sustained dialogue channels”, he said and assured that the interests of the State as a whole would be of paramount importance in this process.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the need of better relations between India and Pakistan.

“Unfortunately the ties between the two neighbours have not remained palatable for most of the period for various reasons”, he said and emphasized on bringing about necessary thaw in Indo-Pak relations for the larger public interests and lasting peace. He said “Pakistan has been, is and will remain our neighbour and India has always played positive role in improving the relations between the two countries”.

“We want Pakistan to be prosperous and peaceful”, he said expressing the hope that Pak will also move forward positively in the peace process, fulfilling its promises and creating an atmosphere of trust to settle issues amicably. He said we wish to transform the bitterness in Indo-Pak relations into sweetness. “Hum duo hamsaiun ke tanaaw ko mithas main badalana chathe hain (“We want to convert bitterness neighbours into sweetness”).

The Chief Minister lauded the people of Jammu division for showing highest degree of responsibility during recent situation in the Valley and not falling prey to the propagandist and vested elements. “You have foiled all attempts made to destabilize the communal harmony and brotherhood by exhibiting your political maturity and astute”, he told them calling for standing united against the perpetrators of hatred.

He said that equitable development and justice to all sections of the society was the benchmark of his government and from the day first he has tried to give good governance and attend to the day to day problems pertaining to the development of the State. “During my electioneering I asked the mandate for addressing development issues and striking on unemployment problem”, he said adding that in the last 18 months landmark achievements have been registered in the five important sectors of Roads and Bridges, Health, Education, Water and Power supply.

“We want you to judge us for the performance on development front”, he said and assured that the coalition government would fulfill its all promises made to the people during election campaign. “In fact certain elements got frustrated by the NC-Congress coalition in the State and from the day first tried to disturb the law and order and tranquility so that the attention of the government gets diverted from the development scenario”, he said and warned the people of evil designs of such elements.

The Chief Minister said that his government wants to revive Panchayats and Local Body Institutions as early as possible to transfer power to these democratic units. “This would at one hand help to address specific development needs in the specific areas and on the other help to curb misappropriation and leakage of funds”, he said and asked the people for larger participation in the elections to the Bodies.

Omar said that his government has taken many employee friendly steps since its inception including implementation of 6th Pay Commission recommendations. “The government recently ordered reduction in the qualifying age for pension”, he said and impressed upon the government employees to render their service to the public with devotion and responsibility.

Referring to the inauguration of two transmission lines and power stations, Omar said that power sector is receiving focused attention of the government as it is significantly essential for the all-round development of the State.

Omar said the government has to bear Rs. 1500 crore worth losses on the supply of electricity to the people annually. “Reason being partial or non-remittance of electricity fee by the consumers. Had this amount be available to the government, we need not to depend on central assistance for vast number of projects in Health, Education, Power, R&B and PHE”, he asserted and said that the availability of this amount would enable the government to address unemployment problem in a big way. The Chief Minister expressed hope that awareness about payment of electricity dues will fast inculcate in consumers which in turn, is in their own benefit. (PBI)

3 militants killed in Kupwara

Srinagar: Three militants were killed in a fierce gun battle in Kupwara districts of north Kashmir, official sources told on Monday.

They said four different battalions of army including 1 Naga, 6 para, 6 and 21 Rashtriya Rifles launched a joint cordon-and-search operation following specific information about the presence of militants in Hafrada, a forest area near Line of the Control in frontier district previous night.

They said that the militants on being challenged to surrender opened indiscriminate fire, which was retaliated. In the ensuing fierce gun battle, they said, three militants were killed. They said the searches operation in the area was going.

About the group affiliation and the identity of the slain militants, official said that it was being ascertained.

Hurriyat (M) for unconditional release of detainees

Srinagar: Expressing concern over the deteriorating health condition of pro-freedom leaders in several jails, the Hurriyat Conference (M) led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Monday demanded their unconditional release on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

“It is highly unfortunate and condemnable that Shabir Shah, Nayeem Khan, Mohmmad Ashraf Sehrai, Zafar Akbar Bhat, Advocate Mian Qayoom, Advocate GN Shaheen and other pro-freedom leaders are neither being provided adequate health care facilities under the Geneva convention nor is the government following the court orders to release them,” a spokesman of the amalgam said in a statement issued here

The spokesman said besides these pro-freedom leaders thousands of youth were being detained in several jails and notorious interrogation centers across India in “inhumane” conditions and demanded their release on the festival too.

“The international community and human rights groups should pressurize India to release these leaders and youth,” the spokesman added.

JKLF slams Farooq for his “Azadi’ comment

‘Independent JK Would Emerge As Model Welfare State’

Srinagar: Condemning National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah’s statement that ‘Azadi’ was impossible for Jammu and Kashmir, JKLF Monday said the independent state will emerge as a model welfare state.

“Pro-India leaders particularly Farooq Abdullah have been ridiculing Azadi as impossible for mere lust of power and position but surveys conducted since 1990s have clearly shown that more than 85 percent people in the state want independence. Jammu and Kashmir will not only get its Azadi but will also emerge as a great welfare state,” JKLF vice chairman, Advocate Bashir Ahmad Bhat said, according to a statement issued , Bhat led a JKLF delegation and visited families of youth killed in Islamabad district of south Kashmir by government forces over the past few months.

Bhat while paying rich tributes to the slain youth said the “young generation is writing a new chapter in the history of Kashmir with their blood.” He also castigated the government forces for use of brute force to intimidate people.

Meanwhile, JKLF has termed the killing of a youth, Showkat Ahmad Malik in Palhallan Pattan in forces’ action as the worst kind of state terrorism and said the sacrifices of youth won’t go waste while vowing to take the freedom movement to its logical conclusion.

Bear mauls Kokernag man

Srinagar: In yet another incident of man-animal conflict, a bear mauled and injured a man in Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Islamabad district.

Official sources told that the wild beast attacked the man, Abdul Qadoos Deka son of Sona-ullah while he was cutting grass in maize fields at his native village at Deesu Kokernag. Deka was later shifted to hospital and his condition is stated be stable, they added.

Pulwama laborer dies as earth caves in

Srinagar: A labourer was buried under earth and two others had a miraculous escape as earth caved in during a digging process in Pulwama district on Monday.

Official sources told that a big chunk of earth caved in at Trich village in the southern Kashmir district, trapping three labourer, who were at work. While two were rescued, one labourer got buried. The deceased has been identified as Zubair Ahmad while those rescued include Mohammad Younis Bhat and Azad Adil Bhat.

GB Pant employees protest salary cut

Srinagar, June 23: To protest the salary cut, scores of employees of Valley’s sole children hospital, G B Pant hospital on Monday staged anti-administration demonstrations.

our city correspondent said that scores of employees this morning staged a peaceful demonstration near the hospital to protest the salary cut by the administration during the curfew days. Shouting slogans, the protesters under the banner of G B Pant medical employees’ federation (GBPMEF) were led by the union president, Ali Mohammad Dar. The protesters said that despite working with hard work and dedication in the most difficult situation in the last three months, the authorities have cut the salary of the employees who could not reach for duty on Sundays due to the curfew and strike.

“Despite the fact that 70 percent of employees hail from other districts of the Valley, GB Pant was the only hospital that was running smoothly. The administration did not provide the employees transport facility, however the employees risked their lives and performed their duty honestly. Salary cut is unjustified and injustice,” Dar, the union president said.

“The kiths and kins of the bureaucrats working in the hospital get salary for sitting on comfortable sofas but we’re been victimized,” he added.

The Union President said that the delegation of employees called upon the Medical Superintendent, Dr Kaisar and sought his intervention.

“Instead of a patient hearing, the medical superintendent threatened to deduct some money from our allowances as well. This is height of arrogance and mismanagement,” he added.

Medical Superintendent, G B Pant Dr Kaisar told that the protesting employees have not reported duty from the last three months. However, the administration, he said, provided them the salary while sitting home.

“Two and a half day salary has been deducted from the employees as fine. Their demand is not genuine and there allegations are totally baseless,” Kaisar said.

“Out of 15; only 6 nurses reported on all these months. The protesting employees refused to join the duty when ambulances were send to collect them. They would even switch off their mobile phones,” he added.

Uri man falls from walnut tree, dies

Srinagar: A man on Monday died after falling from a walnut tree in Nowshera area of Uri in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

reports from North Kashmir said that Nazir Ahmad, 45, son of Mohammad Ali Khan of Khodhalan village of Nowshera, Uri was critically injured when he lost control and fell on the ground while plucking walnuts from a tree. The injured was rushed to the district hospital, where he succumbed to injuries.

Last year, Nazir’s son had also died in a tragic road accident on the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad highway.

4 killed in mishaps across Kashmir

Srinagar: Four persons were killed and six others were injured in separate road accidents across the in Kashmir valley, official sources told on Monday.

They said a septuagenarian man was killed and three persons injured when a load carrier (JK05B-1456) turned turtle at Kunzer in northern Baramulla district.

The deceased have been identified as Mohammad Subhan (73) son of Abdul Samad Wani while the injured were shifted to hospital for treatment.

In another a vehicle (JK09-4391) hit and injured a pedestrian Hafeez-Ullah Shah son of Ghulam Mohammad of Takia Farooq Khansahib in central Kashmir’s Budgam near JVC hospital. Shah succumbed to his injuries at SKIMS, the official added.

In another accident, minibus (JK05A-1730) rolled down into a gorge at Pathankote, in northern Bandipora district. Three persons, Ishfaq Ahmad Chechi son of Makhna of Bonar Ongam Bandipora, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Khan son of Abdul Rashid of Yari Bonekote Bandipora and Manzoor Ahmad Mir son of Abdul Gani Mir of Pazalpora Bandipora were injured and shifted to hospital. One of the injured, Ishfaq Ahmad Chechi succumbed to his injuries on way to hospital, a police spokesman said.

An unknown silver colour Santro car hit and injured a girl, Sabia daughter of Abdul Rashid Larihangi Dar of Gangerhama Ganderbal near Rabitar area in the central Kashmir district. “The injured girl succumbed to her injuries on way to hospital,” the spokesman said.

One person was injured in a collision among a Taveera vehicle (S-2746), a Maruti Car (JK05B-4918) and an Auto on Highway near Mir Gund Baramulla. The injured, Shabir Ahmad Malla (auto driver), who was injured, has been hospitalized while All the three vehicle were damaged.

24 cross LoC via Poonch

Srinagar: As many as 22 fresh visitors from this part of Jammu and Kashmir were on board Poonch-Rawalakote peace bus as 24 persons crossed sides along the Line of Control via Poonch in Jammu region.

Official sources told that said one visitor from Pakistan administered Kashmir arrived via Chakandabagh crossing point in Poonch this morning when gate was opened at around 11:55 am. There was no resident of Poonch and Rajouri on board the weekly bus service.

However, 22 first time visitors from this part of the Kashmir crossed over to PaK, after several weeks. One resident of Pak travelled back after completing their allotted stay of 28-days in this part of the divided line, they added. ( curtsy PBI...pix Burhan Kennu & aip)

Kashmir on 05 September 2010

Resume life after 2 pm on Monday: Geelani

Srinagar September 5,

In view of Shab-e-Qadar, Hurriyat (G) chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani
Sunday while making a light change in the protest calendar urged
people to resume normal life after 2 pm on Monday.Geelani said people
should resume normal work after 2 pm on Monday, so that they would be
able to buy essentials and other items for the auspicious night of
Shab-e-Qadar.
According to a statement issued here, Geelani also appealed youth to
maintain discipline and not to disrupt the transport.
Syed Ali Shah Geelani rolls out strike programs in shape of protest
calendars on weekly basis.Earlier he has set five conditions to pave
way for restoration of peace in the region.
Meanwhile, normalcy returned to Kashmir including Srinagar Sunday for
a day following no strike call from Hurriyat (G).
Routine activities were resumed across major towns with markets open
and businesses functional. People flooded the markets to do necessary
shopping and traffic was also seen plying normally on roads. According
to Reports From many places and intersections people was to bear the
massive traffic mess for hours together.

The Kashmir has been witnessing massive pro-freedom protests over the
past more than two and a half month. At least 65 people most of them
teenagers were killed in police and paramilitary shooting.

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Air travel gets taxing in Kashmir

Srinagar, Sept 05: One normally boards flights for its advantage over any other mode of transport for getting to travel destination quicker and comfortable. However, it is utterly at odds for the travelers boarding it from and into the Srinagar.

“It is wholly inconveniencing at the Awantipora airport,” said Hilal Ahmad Turki, a traveler who arrived here from New Delhi.

“We arrived at Awantipora this morning and were kept waiting for more than six hours till other flights arrived and then shifted to Srinagar,” said Turki.

“A tent has been erected in the Awantipora and travelers are made to wait unless all flights arrive,” another traveler, Bashir Ahmad said.

For the passengers traveling from Srinagar, the passengers are to arrive at least four hours before the departure time for the check-in counter closes three hours prior to the leaving of the flights.

For upgradation and repairs at the Srinagar airport, the civilian air traffic has been diverted to Indian Air Force’s airport at Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district from September 03 last.

While GoAir airlines continued its two flights daily to and from Srinagar during the closure period, the Spicjet joined the operation from today. Most of the other airlines flying to Srinagar have cut their operations while the Jet Airways was meeting on September 6 to deicide on resuming or staying off the flights to Srinagar till repairs are done at the Srinagar runways.

The Srinagar airport was tipped to be closed for 15 days with no flights from Awantipora. However, the state government pleaded with Ministry of Defence, which maintains the airport, to make available the flights from Awantipora especially for Eid festival to be celebrated either on September 10 or 11, depending to the citing of the crescent.

The repair works were earlier scheduled to be done in June this year but it was postponed after state government pleaded the Centre that closure of airport would affect the tourist season. However, in wake of the unrest, bringing the tourist inflow to near zero, the defence authorities decided to carry the repairs from September. The authorities entrusted with the maintenance of the runway have set September 15 as the cut of date for the completion of the repair works.

Militant killed in Kupwara

Srinagar, Sept 05:

A Lashker-e-Toiba militant was killed and three others are also believed to be dead in a fierce gun battle in North Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Sunday. Official sources said that four different battalions of army including 1 Naga, 6 para, 6 and 21 Rashtriya Rifles launched a joint cordon-and-search operation following specific information about the presence of militants in Hafrada, a forest area near Line of the Control in frontier district last night.

They said that the militants on being challenged to surrender opened indiscriminate fire, which was retaliated. In the ensuing fierce gun battle, they said, four militants are believed to be killed.

When contacted, Lt Colonel Vineet Sood, spokesman of army, said that body of one militant has been recovered so far. “The searches are going on as the forest has very think undergrowths, making our operation difficult.”

Build consensus on Kashmir resolution:Mufti to Advani

Srinager,September 5

Peoples Democratic Party patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has said wading through blood and misery Kashmir has presented an unprecedented opportunity to the country to respond to its problems with a large hearted approach, understanding and boldness. In a statement issued here he said this opportunity needs to be seized in time rather than waiting for the issue to disappear.
Mufti said the fact that there is an avowed disapproval of violence in all political expressions emanating from the state should be respected and genuine and meaningful initiative launched to resolve the issue amicably. To achieve this countrywide consensus needs to be built on addressing the issues in a dignified and democratic manner and sentiments of the people here taken on board.
Regretting the observations of the senior BJP leader LK Advani opposing any moves by the government on Kashmir to address the crisis, Mufti said a statesmanlier attitude was expected of the former Dy prime minister who has dealt with Kashmir at very crucial turning point.
Discounting Advani's accusations about PDP providing manpower to street protests, Mufti said it was unfortunate he had chosen to pick up very small talk on a big issue that is confronting the moral core of the country. He said it was a cruel irony that the successor to Atal Behari Vajpayee and shadow prime minister of largest democracy in the world should have tried to reduce a political, moral and humanitarian challenge into a stone pelting discourse, not trying to grasp the sentiment that his own party stalwarts in the parliament acknowledged in more wholesome and terms.
Murli Manohar Joshi and Sushma Swaraj had categorically stated the sentiment to be of Azadi, Mufti reminded Advani and said the challenge before the country is to address that sentiment in a humane, respectful and innovative manner that our democratic system is fully capable of coming up with.
He said as an inheritor of Vajpayee legacy and senior most leaders Advani should have led the humanitarian agenda of the former prime minister to build a consensus on resolution of Kashmir that had once shown dramatic results on the internal and external dimensions of the problem.
Mufti said the political class of the country has to respond to the crisis in Kashmir that has been the creation of an exclusive dependence on bureaucratic-security mechanism. All major political parties irrespective of partisan considerations need to show solidarity with the most distressed region that has to be part of country's conscience and not just a spot on its political boundaries and a festering humanitarian sore. The country should reach out to the highly civilized people of Kashmir with serious moves to gain their confidence rather than try to seek surrender from them or inflict defeat on them, Mufti said and reiterated that ideas have to be met with more innovative ideas to come out of dead ends. ..............

DIG South Kashmir organizes Police Public meet

Srinagar, September, 05:

In its endeavour for maintaining good Police Public relations viz-a-viz present law and order situation in the Valley, J&K Police today organised Police Public meetings in Srigufwara and Yaripora in South Kashmir.
A Police Public meet was organised today in Higher Secondary School Srigufwara. The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), South Kashmir Range, Mr. S. A Watali presided over the Police Public meet in which approximately 400-500 people including respectables and senior citizens of the area participated. The people highlighted many problems of the area and among them the grievances which were related to PHE, Food and Supplies and other similar departments were redressed on spot, while the grievances related to the police department were taken into consideration.

SSP Anantnag, Mr. B. A Khan, SDPO Bijbehara and SDPO Srigufwara were also present in the meeting. A similar meeting was presided over by DIG, South Kashmir at Yaripora Kulgam in which Police officers and the locals of the area participated.

Kashmir 04 September 2010

Valley shuts again, protests continue

4 policemen among 24 injured in renewed clashes

Srinagar September 04:

At least fifteen persons were injured in fresh clashes as Valley observed complete strike in response to the call given by pro-freedom Hurriyat Conference (G) on Saturday.

Reports and eyewitnesses told that six persons were injured in pitched battles between protesters and the forces in Kurhama area of district Ganderbal.

Reports said hundreds of people mainly youth this afternoon took to streets and staged pro-freedom demonstrations. Chanting pro-freedom and anti-India demonstrations, the people tried to march through the streets of the town. However, CRPF and police deployed in advance resorted to cane charge and fired numerous teargas canisters in a bid to quell the demonstrators.

In retaliation, eyewitnesses said angry protesters hurled rocks and stones on the forces triggering off fierce clashes. The clashes that continued for several hours left six civilians injured.

However, in the neighboring Kangan area, hundreds of people staged peaceful pro-freedom demonstrations.

Peaceful protests were also held in Budgam, Ompora, Galwanpora, Soibug, Choun and other areas of the central Kashmir.

In Soibugh, scores of people staged demonstrations to protest the arrest of four youth identified as Iqbal Wani, son of Ghulam Mohammad Wani, Abdur Rashid, son of Mohammad Akram, Naseer Malik, son of Mohammad Sultan, Showkat Ahmad, son of Ali Mohammad Malik. The people were demanding the immediate release of all the youth.

Protests and clashes were also reported from all the three districts of North Kashmir.

correspondent from North Kashmir said that thousands of people staged demonstrations in Ajas area of Bandipore district after Zuhr prayers. The people shouting pro-freedom slogans were protesting against the recent civilian deaths.

In Sumbal area of the district, CRPF men opened several shots in air when the joint team of forces came under stone pelting from the youth. However, no reports of any injury were received.

In neighboring Kupwara district, peaceful demonstrations were held at Yunsoo, Langate, Kralgund, Trehgam, Tujjer, Darzi Mohalla, main chowk and other areas. The demonstrations dispersed off peacefully.

In Baramulla district, several people were injured due to the alleged beating by the forces.

At least eight people, reports and eyewitnesses said were injured after being thrashed by forces during a pro-freedom demonstration in Zaloora area of Sopore town this afternoon. Two of the injured have been identified as Abdul Waheed Lone and Altaf Ahmad Ganai. Both of them were rushed to hospital for treatment.

In Palhalan, thousands of men, women and children staged demonstrations to protest the alleged harassment by the forces. The protesters blocked Srinagar-Muzaffarabad highway for several hours demanding the release of Mohammad Akbar and his son Waseem who were arrested by police during a raid last night.

“Police is trying its best to curb our voice and sentiments. Raids, harassment and arrests have become order of the day. Last night they arrested father son duo. Shame on the government,” Bashir Ahmad, a protester said.

In Dobiwan, Tangmarg, hundreds of people staged demonstrations to protest the arrest of two youth identified as Urfeen Ahmad, son of Ghulam Mohammad Ganai and Bilal Ahmad, son of Mohammad Akbar Shah. Forces swung into action and tried to disperse the demonstrators. In retaliation, protesters pelted rocks and stones on the forces sparking off ding-dong battles. However, no one was injured in the incident. Two people were also arrested by police. One of them has been identified as Mushtaq Ahmad Sheikh.

Angry protesters also thrashed to pulp a renegade (Ikhwani) in the area. Anis Ahmad Mir, a pro-government gunman of Pattan was travelling in his car when protesters intercepted him near Dobiwan and thrashed him to the pulp.

Peaceful pro-freeodm demonstrations were also held in Shopian, Kulgam, Pulwama and Islamabd district of South Kashmir.

Reports said after offering Zuhr prayers, thousands of people took to streets in South Kashmir districts and staged pro-freedom demonstrations. Shouting “We want freedom,” “Islam Zindabad,” “Go India Go Back,” and anti –India slogans, the people were protesting the killing of unarmed civilians by forces.

In Srinagar, at least four people, two among them received pellet injuries when CRPF and police opened fire upon a group of pro-freedom demonstrators in Saraf Kadal area of the old city. The injured have been identified as Shabir AhmaFd Sheikh, son of Jalal-ud-din of Rainawari and Abrar Malik, son of Mohammad Afzal Malik of Nawa Kadal.

Forces also fired teargas shells upon protesters in Fateh Kadal, Bohri Kadal, Bohri Kadal, Naid Kadal and Karfali Mohalla.

The locals of Khanyar and Bon Mohalla Fateh Kadal and Malaratta charged the troops and police of going berserk after failing to disperse the pro-freedom demonstrators this afternoon. The locals alleged that forces barged into residential houses and ransacked household goods. Window panes of several houses were also damaged by the forces, residents alleged.

At Parmpora, scores of people staged protests after two youth identified as Deedar Ahmad and Waseem were arrested by police. The protesters were demanding the release of the duo.

Meanwhile, a complete shutdown was observed across the Valley in response to the call given by pro-freedom Hurriyat Conference (G). All shops, private and government offices, banks and financial institutions, educational institutes and coaching centers, petrol pumps remained closed throughout the day while transport was off the road.

In Srinagar, the capital city, thousands of heavily armed Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel and police guarded the deserted markets, roads, streets, lanes and by lanes to thwart the attempt of the people to stage pro-freedom demonstrations.

In a official handout issued this evening, police said that barring few incidents of stone pelting in old city, situation across the Valley remained peaceful.

Two youth, the spokesman said was injured when police fired rubber pellets to disperse mob in Saraf Kadal and Bohri Kadal area of the old city. The youth, they said were stable.

“There were no restrictions on the movement of the people and vehicular traffic was also plying normally. Shops in certain pockets and by-lanes were also open,” the spokesman added

Kashmir on 03 September 2010

12 injured as Army opens fire in Baramulla

Srinagar, Sept 03:

Even as the day passed off largely peaceful, the situation turned volatile in North Kashmir’s Baramulla town when army opened fire to disperse protesters, objecting to the removal of Pakistani flag from a mobile tower.

At least 12 persons were injured, seven of them due to bullets, official sources said. They said that the trouble erupted when troops from army’s 46 Rastriya Rifles spotted a Pakistani flag hoisted on a mobile tower in Sabzi Market near Cement Bridge in the town. As the troops went to remove it, they came under heavy stone pelting. The troops allegedly opened fire, in which seven persons were injured. The injured have been identified as Tanveer Ahmad Gojri son of Sonaullah, Mohammed Yaseen Dar son of Mohammed Rajab, Amir Qadeer son of Mohammad Qadeer, Shabir Ahmad son of Abdul Rehman, Irfan Ahmad Son of Manzoor Ahmad, Farooq Ahmad Tantray Son of Abdul Rehman and woman Shareefa wife of Ghulam Mohidin of Handwara were injured.

Two of the injured, Gojri who sustained thigh injury and Dar, who was hit on leg, are said to be critical in SHMS hospital here.

Later, they said, police and security forces reached the spot and tried to control the mob. Five persons were injured in the police and security forces action as they resorted to massive baton charge.

When contacted, defence ministry spokesman Lt Col J S Brar expressed ignorance about the incident. “I am not aware about any such incident,” Brar said.

Four persons were injured when police used teargas canisters and resorted to baton charge against a group of stone-pelting mob in Kangan area in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

Reports and official sources said that soon after the Friday prayers, scores of youth took to streets in Kangan and resorted to stone pelting on police and security forces, prompting police to use batons and teargas canisters against them. Four persons were injured in the clashes.

Two persons were injured in clashes between stone-pelting youth and police at Sopore town in Baramulla district, sources said.

At least three persons were injured in clashes between stone-pelting youth and police in Nowhatta area here. The clashes ensued soon after the congregational prayers in the historic Jamia Masjid.

A police spokesman here said, Police exercised maximum restraint and dispersed the stone pelters using minimum force.

“One person Mushtaq Ahmed Shah of Gojwara received minor injuries at Nowahatta,” a police spokesman said here.

Earlier, life returned to normal in Kashmir valley including southern Kashmir’s Anantnag district where authorities lifted curfew after four days today.

Official sources said that curfew was lifted from Anantnag this morning much to the respite of the people who were confined to their houses sans any relation for past four days following the killing of a boy, Irshad Ahmad Parray on August 30 last

However, they said, curfew was imposed in Kunzar area along the Srinagar- Gulmarg road. Locals said loudspeaker announcement were made in the area to the effect. Deputy Commissioner Baramulla could not be contacted for the comment as people termed it unwarranted.

Elsewhere, markets teemed with life in wake of the relaxation for one day by the separatist Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

All shops, business establishments, petrol pumps and a few educational institutions across the valley resumed their work this morning. The transport also returned on all the roads and highways.

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Srinagar, Sept 03:

Jumat-ul-Vida, the last Friday of the holy fasting month of Ramadhan, passed off peacefully in Kashmir valley today.

In Srinagar—the summer capital of the state, the biggest congregation was held at the historic grand Jamia Masjid in the heart of the old city. Many thousand people, including a large number of women, joined the Friday prayers. Chairman of his moderate faction of Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, addressed the gathering. Soon after the prayers, Mirwaiz led thousands of people as they marched towards ‘Dastageer Sahib’ Khaniyar and dispersed there peacefully.

Second of the biggest congregation, was held at Asar-e-Sharif, Dargah Hazratbal, where more than fifty thousand people offered Friday prayers.

Congregational prayers were also held at Masjid Jamiat-e-Ahlehadith, Gawkadal; Asar-e-Sharif, Janab Sahib, Soura; Asar-e-Sharif, Shehri Kalashpora; Ziarat Dastgeer Sahib, Khanyar, Ziarat Dastgeer Sahib, Sarai Bala; Ziarat-e-Makhdoom Sahib, Khanqah-e-Mualla, and several other mosques and shrines in Srinagar.

The hardliner Syed Ali Shah Geelani led thousands of people after offering congregational prayers at Pather Masjid in the old city. Eyewitnesses said that soon after the prayers, Geelani marched nearly a kilometer near Kaka Sarai SHMS here before addressing the rally. The people later dispersed off peacefully.

In central Kashmir’s Budgam district, mass rallies were taken in Ompora, Nagam Chadoora, Main Chowk Budgam, Hyderpora and Khasahib soon after the congregational Friday prayers.

Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front, Mohammad Yaseen Malik addressed a gathering in Char-e-Sherief in the district.

Peaceful mass rallies were taken in several Masjids in Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and the shopian districts. Biggest of the rallies was witnessed in main Jamia masjid in Anantnag. Thousands of worshipers offered Friday prayers at Jamia Masjid Ahle-Hadith in Anantnag town. Large congregations were witnessed also at Jamia Masjid Reshi Bazaar, Sheikh-ul-Alam Masjid, Masjid Shareef, KMD adda, Masjid Noor, KP Road, Masjid-e-Baitul Mukarram.

Thousands of people also offered congregational prayers in Pulwama, Kakapora, Tral, Bijbhera, Nayana, Lasibal, Sernal, Qazigund, Kokernag, Ka’aba Marg, Asar-e-Sharif Pinjora, and other parts of southern Kashmir region.

In north Kashmir’s, large congregations were offered in all the three districts including Baramulla, Bandipora and frontier Kupwara district. In Baramulla, large congregations were held in Astan-e-Aliya Khwaja Sahab, Astan-e-Aliya Janbaaz Wali (RA) and Masjid Baitul Mukarram.

Reports said that many people took out a mass protest rally from Baitul Mukarram in main town. Shouting slogans in favour of Islam and carrying green flags, people marched through lanes and by-lanes before dispersing off peacefully.

In the Sopore town, the largest congregations were held at Jamia Masjid, Khanqah-e-Mualla and Tujjar Shrief.

In Kupwara district, reports said, largest congregation was held in Main town where thousands o people offered the Friday prayers. The other gathering where witnessed in Bohama, Trehgam, Ragipora, Rawatpora, Lalpora Lolab and other mosques. In Bandipora, congregation prayers were held in all the mosques with largest ones witnessed in Jamia Masjid in Main town and Ajas.

Reports of mass prayers were also received from Ganderbal district with thousands of people offering the prayers in Main Jamia Masjid in Duderhama and Jamia Masjid Kangan.

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Kashmir 2nd September 2010

Asiya Andrabi booked under PSA

Life remains crippled in Kashmir

Srinagar, Sept 02:

Chairperson of the radical women group, Dukhtaran-e-Millat (Daughters of the Faith), Asiya Andrabi and her close aid Sofi Fahmeeda were booked under Public Safety Act for “inciting people against the state and police.”

Meanwhile, after day of normalcy, life was crippled again while curfew continued unabated for the fourth day in running today in Southern Anantnag district.

“Both Asiya Andrabi and Sofi Fahmeeda have been shifted to Kotbolwal jail and booked under PSA,” acting chairperson of the radical group, Rifat Fatima said here. Official sources said that separatist duo was booked for “inciting people against the state and police.”

The radical separatist women were arrested on August 28 last and detained in woman’s police station here before shifted to Kotbolwal this morning, the official sources added.

Meanwhile, life remained crippled in wake of the separatist strike and restrictions in the most parts of the valley while curfew continued in Anantnag district.

Official sources said that curfew was imposed in several parts of old Srinagar and Maisuma while restrictions were clamped on people’s movement elsewhere to prevent any untoward incident.

“Curfew continues in Anantnag town as there are apprehensions of violent protests in the town,” a police officer said.

A boy, Irshad Ahmad Parray, was killed during firing by security forces on August 30, prompting the authorities to clamp curfew in the south Kashmir town to prevent fresh protests.

Markets remained closed and all modes of transport was off the roads. They said that the day passed off peacefully barring stone-pelting incidents in Pattan area in North Kashmir. In Pattan, a group of stone-pelting mob was chased away by security forces resorting to aerial firing. There was no report of injury to any one in the incident, they added.

“Situation across the valley remained peaceful,” a police spokesman said here.

Meanwhile, there is some respite a ahead for the people as separatist Hurriyat Conferebce headed by Syed Ali Shah Geelani has placed our days outside the purview of strike on the eve of Eid festivities. Issuing the new calendar, the separatists have kept Sept 03, 05, 9, 11, 12 and 13 open for Eid-ul-Fitr which is likely to be celebrated on September 10 or 11 depending upon the sighting of the crescent.

While filing this report Two persons sustained bullet injuries after paramilitary forces opened fire at them in Zaldagar locality here on Thursday evening.

Two persons identified as Riyaz Ahmad Balloo of Feteh Kadal and Sajid Ahmad of Karfuli Mohalla, here was injured when paramilitary forces opened fire to disperse them near Zaldagar here this evening.

Locals told . that police and CRPF personnel open fire before the Iftaar at 06:30pm in Zaldagar area .

A police spokesman said that the forces fired tear smoke shells to disperse the stone-pelting mob there. However, they did not relent after which forces fired rubber pallets.

“The condition of both the persons is stated to be stable so far,” the spokesman said.

Jumat-ul-Vida holiday today: Govt

JKB offices to remain closed

Srinager Srinagar, Sep02: The Government has declared September 03, as a holiday on account of Jumat-ul-Vida.

Orders to this effect were issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) today, an official spokesman said here.

Meanwhile, a spokesman of the J&K Bank told . that all branches and offices of the Bank will remain closed tomorrow on account of Jumat-ul-Vida.

Leopard kills12-yr-old girl in Handwara

Srinager Srinagar, Sep02

A 12-years-old girl was mauled to death by a leopard in Handwara area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, official sources told . on Thursday.

They said Kulsuma daughter of Mohammad Maqbool Sheikh was attacked by the wild beast outside her residence in Dogripora Handwara. The leopard took the girl along towards the jungle and her body was retrieved by the locals after nearly an hour. Soon after the incident, reports said, hundreds of people staged a protest demonstration against the wild life officials.

16 cross sides on LoC via Uri

Srinager Srinagar, Sep02

There was no fresh visitor from this part of the Kashmir even as 16 persons crossed over to Line of Control through Karvan-e-Aman bus service, plying on weekly basis across the divided parts of Kashmir.

Official sources said that 15 first-time visitors from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir arrived here to meet their relatives first time after separation during the Indo-Pak partition in 1947.

The guests travelled from Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pok, to Chakoti, near the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri town of north Kashmir. As a part of procedure, the travelers alighted from the bus and crossed the Aman Setu (Peace Bridge) on foot.

The cross-LoC bus was flagged off by Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in April 2005. There was no resident of this part of the Kashmir on part of the bus.

While there was no fresh visitor from this side part of the Kashmir onboard the bus, a lone Pak resident returned home after completing their 28-days of allotted stay here.

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Asiya, aide booked under PSA

Srinagar September 02:

Chairperson of Dukhtaran-e-Millat, Aasiya Andrabi and her close aide Sofi Fahmeeda were booked under Public Safety Act and shifted to Kotbolwal jail in Jammu on Thursday.

“Asiya Andrabi and Sofi Fahmeeda have been booked under PSA and shifted to Kotbolwal jail in Jammu,” acting chairperson of the DeM, Rifat Fatima said in a statement here. She condemned invoking of PSA against the duo as “frustration” of the government. “We also condemn shifting of Asiya Andrabi to Kotbolwal despite directions by the High Court and Supreme Court in 2009.”

Asiya Andrabi was arrested on August 28 last during a raid at Habak Zakura in the outskirts of the city.

Aasiya had gone underground to evade arrest She was lodged in Woman’s jail in Rambagh here for past three days.

Official sources said that Andrabi was booked for “inciting people against the state and police.”

The orders of PSA have been issued by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo, the sources added. Despite repeated attempts, the commissioner could not be contacted for the comment.

Jumat-ul-Vida being observed as Yaum-e-Qudus

Mirwaiz to address people at Jamia today

.Srinagar September 02:

The Mirwaiz Umar Farooq-led Hurriyat Conference Thursday said the Jumat-ul-Vida (last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan) tomorrow will be observed in Kashmir as Yaum-e-Kashmir and Yaum-e-Qudus to reiterate the pledge to continue the resistance movement until it reaches its logical conclusion.

In a statement issued here, the Hurriyat faction said that while its chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq will address a gathering at the Jamia Masjid, other Hurriyat leaders would go to mosques, shrines, imambaras to seek people’s support for the resolution passed by the Hurriyat in this regard.

“Besides denouncing the illegal occupation of Masjid Aqsa in Palestine, collective tributes will be paid to the 65 people that includes children and women killed in the’ firing over the past three months on the occasion,” the statement said.

Also protest, the statement said, would be registered against the curbs on religious and political rights of Kashmiris, other human rights violations in Kashmir.

Youth injured in Bear attack in Tangmarg

.Srinagar September 02:

A youth on Wednesday was injured in a leopard attack in Tangmarg area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

Reports and eyewitnesses told . that Imtiyaz Ahmad, son of Abdul Ahad Mir was asleep in his orchard in Hardabura village of Kunzer, Tangmarg last evening when a bear appeared in the orchard and carried out a surprise attack on the youth. The screams of the youth, eyewitnesses said attracted the attention of the people who rushed to the spot and saved the youth from the clutches of the youth in injured condition. The youth was rushed to the nearby Tangmarg hospital for treatment.

Pertinently, Imtiyaz is the sixth victim of man-animal conflict in the area. Four people including a woman have been attacked and injured by the beats in the last one month. The victims were identified as Hayat Ahmad Sheikh, Ghulam Ahmad and Saja Begum of Kurhama and Wali Mohammad Bhat of Dardpora. Bhat is still undergoing treatment at the SMHS hospital.

Eyewitnesses said that a group of wild bear is on prowl in Kunzer, Hardbura, Kurhama, Ogumulla, Kharpora, Wusan, Gulabdaji, Dardpora, Chaksus Reshi and other areas of Tangmarg since last month attacking humans and cattle. They said more than a dozen cattle have perished as the wild animals make frequent visits to the villages.

“We’re reeling under constant threat of being under attack. The women can’t go to farms, while children are scared to go to schools. The residents prefer to stay indoors after sunset,” Abdul Majeed, a local said.

“Our repeated pleas have fallen to the deaf ears of the concerned officials. We approached police and the wildlife officials but to no avail. They should act before the beast takes on humans,” he added.

Army launches major search ops in North Kashmir

.Srinagar September 02:

: Army has launched major combing operations in twin districts of Baramulla and Kupwara to track down the militants hiding in the forest areas.

Reliable sources told . that Army’s 1 Naga last evening cordoned off a vast portion of forested Bangus Valley in frontier Kupwara district after receiving information about the presence of a group of heavily armed militants in the woods. As the Army started combing operation, sources said militants hiding in the forests opened heavy gunfire on the search team. The army returned the fire sparking off fierce gun-battle that lasted for nearly ten minutes. Amid exchange of fire, sources said militants managed to give slip to the search team.

The searches, sources said have been intensified this morning to locate the militants.

In the neighboring Baramulla district, Army’s 32 Rashtriya Rifles is engaged in a search operation in forest compartment number 21 of Watergam and Saderwan forests.

The search operation, sources said is believed to have been carried out to capture the militants who escaped the Army in Uri sector last week while sneaking into this side of Line of Control (LoC). Nine militants were killed in the encounter.

Man charged with murder held

.Srinagar September 02:

: Police on Thursday arrested a man charged with the murder of a woman in Bandipore district of North Kashmir.

Police sources told . that Muzaffar Rasool, son of Ghulam Rasool Lone of Garoora village of the district was arrested for the death of a woman. The accused, sources said had barged into the residential house of a man identified as Hamidullah, son of Assadullah Ganai on Tuesday and attacked his wife Asia Begum on head with a sharp edged weapon.

The injured woman, police sources said had succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

“After the death of his wife, Hamidullah lodged a written report in police post Argam. Police filed a Case Fir No 198/2010 under section 447,302 RPC and arrested the accused,” police sources added.

TeH castigates Govt for denying passport to aspiring Hajis

.Srinagar September 02:

: The Tehreek-e-Hurriyat(TeH) Thursday castigated the government for denying passport to Haj aspirants under the pretext of some of their relatives' association with anti groups like the TeH .

“ This is an open interference in our religious matters as Hajj is among the five basic pillars of Islam,” a spokesman said in a statement issued to ..

The spokesman also condemned the police crackdown on people visiting the Hurriyat Conference(G) Chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani at his hyderpora residence yesterday. Harassing and intimidating people through arrests and undue questioning shows the frustration of the government, the spokesman said. ( with in puts from PBI)… pixs…zulfiqar khan

Kashmir on Ist September 2010

Day of normalcy in Kashmir

Maisuma tense, curfew continues in Ananatnag

Srinagar Sept 1:

Barring Ananatnag district in South Kashmir and Maiusma locality of Srinagar, life across the Valley Wednesday returned to normal, Geelani had given relaxation for a complete day on August 27, September 1 and 3 to allow people to offer congregational Friday prayers and pile us stocks in view of Ramadan.

Reports and eyewitnesses told Newspoint that after remaining paralyzed for four consecutive days due to Hurriyat strike and government curbs, life in Srinagar and most of the parts of the Valley returned to normal this morning.

All shops, government and private offices, banks and financial institutions, business establishments, school and colleges, petrol pumps across the valley resumed their work. The markets that wore a deserted look in the past days, were bustling with shoppers.

The transport that remained affected due to the curfew, restrictions and strike also returned on almost all the roads and highways.

Many government, semi-government and private banks that resumed business activities after four day gap were over crowded with the customers. A serpentine queue of people could also be witnessed outside the ATM’s.

Choked roads, traffic jams, unruly scenes were witnessed at many places in the city centre as people swarmed to make necessary purchases. Traffic cops had a tough time while regulating traffic at important roads and transaction.

The commuters travelling in the city, particularly through Maulana Azad road, residency road, Hari Singh high and Jehangir chowk faced inconvenience due to frequent traffic jams triggered by the heavy flow of traffic.

Meanwhile, tension prevailed in Miasuma locality of the uptown where a shutdown was observed to protest the firing on a youth by a cop on Monday. The condition of the youth remains critical.

All shops, government offices, schools, coaching centers, banks in the area remained closed as youth staged demonstrations against the police action. Fearing widespread protests and clashes, forces were withdrawn from the area.

Uneasy calm also prevailed in curfew bound Ananatnag district of South Kashmir where as many as seventeen policemen were injured when protesters attacked their van in Nai Basti area last night.

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CRPF and police had also erected barricades and laid barbed wire at many places to prevent people from taking out protest marches in the district against the killing of teenager by on Monday evening.

Govt rejects Qayoom’s shifting to Valley again

Srinagar Sept 1::

The state government Wednesday again declined shifting of Kashmir High Court Bar Association President, advocate Mian Abdul Qayoom to Kashmir valley while as the lawyer’s body announced to file contempt proceedings against state government.

Vice president of KHBA, Advocate Aijaz Baidar, told Newspoint that government in its report today informed the High Court about the refusal to shift Mian Qayoom here. The government has cited that the jail buildings in Kupwara were under construction and that shifting Mian Qayoom to the place was a “security risk,” Baider said.

It was on August 17 last when the government declined for the first time to shift advocate Mian Qayoom from Hirannagar jail to central jail here. Soon after the rejection in August, the Bar association filed a contempt proceeding against the government following which the court directed for the status of the jails in the Valley. The state administration after informed to again reconsider the Mian Qayoom shifting to least occupied Kupwara jail.

Meanwhile, after the development, the Bar Association announced to take recourse of legal measures and have decided to file contempt proceeding against Home Commissioner, advocate Baider said.

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The Home Commissioner is also learnt to have rejected the representation over the arrest of advocate Mian Qayoom on “mala fide considerations”.

Counsel for petitioner, Advocate Manzoor Ahmad Dar, had filed a representation with the Home Commissioner, stating therein that advocate Mian Qayoom was booked under PSA on malafide consideration for raising human rights violations, providing legal aid to the detainees and also on statement against present SSP Srinagar.

Regarding the habeas-corpus petitions pertaining to bar general secretary, Ghulam Nabi shaheen, the court also listed the cases on the same day.

Govt eases job scheme formalities

Srinagar Sept 1:

Government on Wednesday announced to have eased formalities under Sher-e-Kashmir Employment and Welfare Programme for Youth (SKEWPY) to increase its reach conveniently to maximum number of unemployed youth in the State.

Addressing a press conference here, Minister for Higher Education, Labour and Employment, Abdul Gani Malik said that the Government has waived off condition of land holding for giving Voluntary Service Allowance (VSA) to the unemployed youth of the State.

He said the Government has also reduced the age of eligible candidates from 28 to 26 years, adding that the VSA will now be disbursed to the candidates in the age group of 26 to 37 years.

The cabinet which earlier met under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had constituted a Cabinet Sub-Committee headed by Minister for PHE & Irrigation, Taj Mohi-ud-Din and the Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Hassan Mir and Minister for Higher Education& Employment, A. G. Malik its members. The Sub-Committee in its second meeting on August 31 decided to make amendments and incorporate new premium to cater to large chunk of unemployed youth under VSA.

Malik said that Government has also increased Rs 100 allowance for all categories, adding that the VSA will now be given in the range of Rs 600 to Rs 1200, starting from matriculates to post- graduates and engineering and medical graduates.

He said that relaxation has also been given in the annual income slab, which has been raised from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1.50 lakh. He said with the waiving off these conditions as many as additional 32000 unemployed youth will be brought under the ambit of scheme, raising the total number of eligible youth to 1.57 lakh in the State.

The Minister said that all the Deputy Commissioners across the State have been asked to step up the implementation at block and tehsil levels so that more and more deserving unemployed educated youth are covered under the scheme at the earliest. He further said that MLAs, MLCs and Deputy Commissioners have been asked to supervise and monitor the scheme in their respective constituencies and recommend genuine cases for immediate disposal.

Malik further said that the employment exchanges at district levels have already been renamed as District Employment and Counselling Centres which have so far registered 5.95 lakh unemployed educated youth including students between the age group of 18 to 37 years.

Replying to a question, the Minister said that an amount of Rs 122 crore has been worked out as financial implication per year for the scheme, adding that Rs 76 crore have been already kept available with the District Employment and Counselling Centres in the State.

The Minister sought cooperation of media in popularizing the scheme and extending its benefits to the unemployed promptly. Describing the scheme as a revolutionary step, he said J&K State is the first-ever State to have initiated such a big unique initiative in the country.

The Minister, however admitted that VSA is not a holistic solution to unemployment problem in the State. He said the scheme facilitates the unemployed youth to switch over to other employment ventures in due course of time.

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Pro-India leader faces public ire at city centre

Srinagar Sept 1:

A pro-India political activist who had brought a group of about four female students from central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district for a protest demonstration to Lal Chowk area here was heckled by people on Wednesday.

Reports and eyewitnesses told Newspoint that a group of primary school students led by Farooq Ahmad Ganderbali, who unsuccessfully contested the 2008 assembly elections from Ganderbal constituency on the ticket of Ghulam Hassan Mir-led JK Democratic Nationalist Party, appeared at the Press Enclave this afternoon and staged a demonstration.

The pro-India politician was raising slogans and demanding an end to the ongoing agitation while the students were carrying placards and banners that read "We want freedom from poverty,” “We want freedom from illiteracy,” We want freedom from backwardness," “Education is our right”.

Ganderbali told reporters that the ongoing agitation should be called off as it was having an “adverse” impact on the students and the education system.

As the pro-India leader was addressing the media men, scores of people cornered him and questioned his objections against the ongoing agitation. Angry youth attacked Ganderbali and forced him to make a hasty retreat.

“Our kids are being killed day in and day out by the forces. At the moment, their life is supreme to us, not their education. We have lost 65 people, including teenage students to the bullets of the forces. We will stop only, when Kashmir achieves freedom from killing,” the angry crowd told reporters and Ganderbali, who fled the spot along with the students.

Kulgam man killed in bear attack

Srinagar Sept 1::

A man was mauled to death by a bear in a forest area in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district, officials told Newspoint Wednesday.

They said in the latest incident of man-animal conflict, 65-year-old Abdul Rehman, son of Gaffar Chak of Manzgam, Damhal Hanjipora was attacked and injured by a bear when he was walking past near Halan forest area of the district. Rehman, who was critically wounded in the attack, was rescued by the locals on hearing the screams. He was rushed to Manzgam hospital for treatment. However, he succumbed to injuries.

Police handed the body to the family after legal formalities.(With inputs from PBI) Pix Zulfiqar khan

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