Kashmir remains shut for 64th day

Srinagar: Kashmir remained shut gor the 64th consecutive day on saturday with authorities deploying security personnel in Srinagar and other places in the Valley to maintain law and order.

Clashes, however, broke in old city areas of Srinagar when an alleged state government driver was beaten to death by the security forces.

Police spokesman has refuted the allegation saying that the driver had died in a road accident.

Meanwhile, sources here said the army has started mobilisation of soldiers to south Kashmir areas where anti-militancy operations had remained suspended for over two months because of public demonstrations and clashes.

Chief of Army General Dalbir Singh is presently on a two-day visit to the Valley.

Sources said the Army Chief's visit has been timed with the decision taken by the central government that without getting directly involved in crowd control, the army should help the civil administration re-establish authority in places like south Kashmir.

Crowds in south Kashmir have defied curfews and restrictions during the last 64 days.

All educational institutions, main markets and public transport continues to remain shut.