KL NEWS NETWORK
SRINAGAR
Bandipora is observing a complete shutdown on Monday while traders held a pro-freedom rally in main town.
Local sources said that traders took out a rally and dispersing off peacefully.
“Shopkeepers assembled in main town and marched in the town amid pro-freedom and anti-India slogans,” local sources said.
Meanwhile, clashes erupted in nearby Kaloosa area where forces fought a pitched battle with pro-freedom protestors.
“It was a vigorous battle,” a local said, “there was huge number of protestors who forced forces to corner.”
Earlier, hundreds of protestors came out of their homes in nearby Watpora area against “army highhandedness”.
They marched towards Bandipora amid pro-freedom slogans but were intercepted near Kaloosa.
“Forces called in reinforcements to fight protestors,” the local said.
Reports from Ashtangoo area of Bandipora district said that protestors asked all the employees of the area “to sit home”.
“It was announced that no employee will go to his/her office,” a local said while quoting announcements made by protestors.
Meanwhile, clashes erupted in Mazhama area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district today.
Reports said that people took to streets to protest against the arrest of a local youth who has been booked under Public Safety Act (PSA).
However, they were tear gassed and lathi-charged resulting in clashes in the area.
A news report said that local populace of Ajas accused army and police of ransacking the houses and beating inmates.
“Army and police in the afternoon without any provocation bragged into their houses, damaged property and beat everyone whosoever came in their way,” the report said.
