Shutdown in Kashmir against arrest and death of youths hits normal life

Separatist leader and Chairman of Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, called for a shutdown in Srinagar on Thursday as a mark of protest against the arrest and death of youths who were allegedly involved in violence.

The city wore a deserted look as shops and other business establishments remained closed.

An irate resident, Safiz Ahmed, said the commuters had to face the brunt of the strike as many vehicles remained off the roads.

"Syed Ali Shah Geelani has called for shutdown against the arrest of youths and deaths of few. Shops are closed and only few vehicles are plying on the road. Therefore, we are facing problem in commuting," said Ahmed.

Security personnel were deployed in large numbers to avert any untoward incident.