Handwara firing: Restrictions, shutdowns hamper lives across Kashmir Valley

Separatist leaders have appealed to the people to observe a protest shutdown against the killing of four civilians over two days

Authorities continued restrictions in North Kashmir's Handwara town and parts of Srinagar city on Thursday to maintain law and order.

"Restrictions will continue to remain in fore in areas falling under the jurisdiction of six police stations in Srinagar and Handwara town in Kupwara district," a senior police officer said.

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"In Srinagar city, the areas where restrictions were imposed fall under Rainawari, Khanyar, Nowhatta, M.R.Ganj, Safa Kadal and Maisama. In addition, we have also made adequate arrangements in other places like Pulwana, Bramulla, Sopore and Kupwara towns to ensure that miscreants are prevented from creating any law and order problems," the officer added.

Separatist leaders including Syed Ali Gilani, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq and Muhammad Yasin Malik, have appealed to people people to observe a protest shutdown against the killing of four civilians over two days -- Tuesday and Wednesday -- during clashes between stone pelting mobs and security forces in Drugmulla, Kupwara district.

They have also called for post-prayer protests on Friday.

Areas where restrictions have not been imposed, shops, public transport, other businesses, also remain shut.

Earlier in the day, mobile and internet services were suspended in Kashmir. Initially the suspension was only in north Kashmir, but now it is all across the Valley.

The four civilians were killed as a result of a rumour that was spread in Hanwana town on Tuesday that a school girl was allegedly molested by an army soldier.

However, the girl denied the allegations via a video clip that went viral on social media.

An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) has been suspended for allegedly firing at the protesters.

Lt General D.S.Hooda, GOC-NC, Udhampur headquarters, Northern Command, visited Handwana on Wednesday and assured completion of a time-bound inquiry to ascertain facts regarding the incident on Tuesday.