Srinagar affected by shutdown, JKLF leaders held

Authorities imposed restrictions in certain areas of Srinagar to scuttle protests by separatists on the 28th death anniversary of pro-independence Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front founder Maqbool Bhat.

Bhat was hanged in Tihar jail on this day in 1984 and was buried inside the jail premises.

The shutdown called by the JKLF ensured the closure of shops and businesses. While public transport remained off the roads, some private vehicles were seen plying.

Authorities imposed restrictions in areas around the city centre and Lal Chowk after JKLF protests in the area on Friday.
Heavy deployment of policemen and the Central Reserve Police Force has been made in areas falling under Maisuma and Kothibagh police stations in Srinagar.

The police had on Friday detained JKLF chairman Yasin Malik from Maisuma locality while leading the protests after Friday prayers.

On Saturday morning, police detained separatist leader Javed Mir and placed two other prominent separatist leaders, Shabir Shah and Naeem Khan, under house arrest.

Image: The strike has affected Srinagar | Photograph: Umar Ganie