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Curfew continues across tense Kashmir, Amarnath yatra suspended

July 20, 2013 15:45 IST

Kashmir continued to be under a state of curfew and security forces continued to be on a state of high alert for the second consecutive day across the Valley. 

The annual pilgrimage to Amarnath also remained suspended for the second day in view of the curfew and restrictions in Kashmir.

An official spokesman of the state government said, “Due to the prevailing situation and restrictions imposed in the valley, the Amarnath yatra shall remain suspended.”

Authorities decided to continue the strict curfew restrictions across Kashmir on Saturday in view of the tense situation over the killing of four villagers in firing by the Border Security Force in Gool area of Ramban district in Jammu region on Thursday.

The condition of some of the injured, who are undergoing treatment in various hospitals in Jammu and Srinagar, continue to be critical.

Thousands of Central Reserve Police Force troopers in full riot gear have been patrolling Srinagar and other towns to enforce the curfew restrictions.

The curfew will continue till Sunday evening as a precautionary measure.

Hard-line separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani has called for a three-day long shutdown against the killings which have sent shockwaves across the state.

The state cabinet, which met under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs five lakh for the next of kin of those killed in the firing.

The meeting condemned the excessive use of force in Gool area and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

Government job will be provided to a family member of those killed in the incident, the cabinet has decided.

Meanwhile, two people were injured when security forces opened fire to quell protests in Qazigund on Friday evening.

Image: The streets of deserted Srinagar ' Photograph: Umar Ganie

Mukhtar Ahmad In Srinagar