Separatists call for shutdown in Kashmir

Separatists have called for a shutdown in Kashmir today even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to flag off the first Katra-Udhampur train. PM Modi will visit the Valley for the first time today since he assumed office in May.

The shutdown call has been given by separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani and other separatist groups have also reportedly supported this call.

All shops, business establishments' schools, colleges and government offices have been closed and public transport is off the roads.

Unprecedented security arrangements have been put in place across Kashmir for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first visit to the state.

The authorities have imposed curfew in old Srinagar city to prevent protests. According by police sources, about 2,300 police and paramilitary forces will be deployed on the highway from Srinagar to Uri, where the Prime Minster is scheduled to inaugurate a 240 MW power project.