Curfew imposed in Kashmir valley, following Ramban firing by BSF

Authorities today imposed a curfew in all major towns of Kashmir to thwart plans of separatist and religious groups to stage protests against the Ramban firing incident that left at least six persons dead on Thursday.

"Curfew would remain in force till further orders from tomorrow (Friday) morning onwards in Srinagar and all other major towns of the Valley. The step has been necessitated to maintain law and order in the Valley," a police officer said here.

The Kashmir valley has been tense after Border Security Forces (BSF) fired at protesters outside the BSF station in the town of Gool (Ramban area). The protesters were unarmed and were protesting against the alleged manhandling of a local religious leader (an Imam).

Restrictions under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure that does not permit assembly of four or more persons has been imposed in rest of the valley, officials said.

"Curfew would remain in force till further orders from tomorrow (Friday) morning onwards in Srinagar and all other major towns of the Valley. The step has been necessitated to maintain law and order in the Valley," a police officer said.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the incident was "highly unacceptable", and Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde promised strict action against the perpetrators and an inquiry has been ordered into the incident.