Upset over shutdown, distressed people in Kashmir protest against Geelani

Distressed by continuous shutdown in the valley against the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8, scores of Kashmiris held a protest march against separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani here on Thursday.

With Kashmir entering its 90the day of shutdown, the locals here have been finding it difficult to feed their children as they are unable to earn due to the strike.

"Due to the shutdown since the last three months, our livelihood has been getting adversely affected. We are unable to pay the school fees of our children," one of the locals said.

The locals also criticised the Hurriyat leaders for not showing sympathy towards them and their family members.

Internet services are still suspended except for mobile-phone services in several parts of the restive valley.

Local shops and schools have been closed and public transport has been severely affected due to the shutdown.

The police and paramilitary forces have been put on a high alert across the valley following the Uri and Baramulla attacks.

Wani (22) was killed by the Indian security forces in an encounter in the Anantnag district. His killing has triggered massive protests in Kashmir.

More than 83 persons, including two cops, have been killed and thousands others injured in clashes between the protestors and security forces since the unrest began.