Srinagar: Normal life in parts of the Valley was affected today in response to the shutdown called by the joint resistance leadership (JRL) against the conduct of civic polls in the state.
Reports reaching news gathering agency Global News Service said that in parts of Srinagar, all shops, offices, financial institutions and petrol pumps remained closed in Solina, Aloochi Bagh, Batamaloo, Shaheed Gunj, Karan Nagar, Chattabal , Qamarwari, Barbarshah, Fateh Kadal, Munawarabad and other areas where second phase of civic polls were held today.
In Old City, stringent security measures were put in place amid apprehensions of anti-poll protests. CRPF and police carrying riot gear were guarding the deserted streets and lanes and by lanes to keep a check on protesters.
In Parimpora area of the city outskirts, clashes broke out this evening when youth pelted rocks at the forces deployments when they were returning to their camps after securing polling booths, reports said.
The government forces lobbed teargas canisters to chase away the angry protesters. However, no one was reported to be hurt in the clashes.
Clashes also erupted in parts of south Kashmir’s Anantnag where civic polls were held today amidst a complete shutdown in poll-bound areas.
Groups of youth engaged government forces in pitched battles at main town, Janglat Mandi, KP road, Khanabal.
“The forces used tear gas to disperse the stone pelting youth. The clashes continued for over an hour,” witnesses told GNS.
Meanwhile, a shutdown was also observed in wake of the JRL call in Langate, Sumbal, Kunzar, Watergam, Yaripora and Frisal areas of north and south Kashmir. (GNS)
