Srinagar, October 06, 2019 (PPI-OT): In occupied Kashmir, the lockdown continues on the 63rd consecutive day, today, with all shops, main markets and educational institutions shut and public transport off the road in Kashmir valley and parts of Jammu region.
As the territory getting into the third month of the humanitarian crisis triggered by the Indian government’s decision to abrogate special status of Jammu and Kashmir on 5th August, normal life continues to remain paralyzed. Internet connectivity stands closed. The train between Baramulla and Banihal continues to be frozen for more than nine weeks. The authorities made several efforts in the past nine weeks to reopen the schools. However, officials admit that the students did not come to schools.
The residents are facing severe hardships due to shortage of essential commodities. People in most of the Valley areas including Shopian, Pulwama and Kulgam have not been able to harvest the apple, which may have serious impact on the economy of the Kashmiri people.
An English language Indian website in a report said that Kashmiri boys aged 14 and 16 are held under dreaded Public Safety Act and sent to jails in Uttar Pradesh. It said that the occupational authorities were not required to provide grounds for detention for up to 10 days.
Meanwhile, there is a growing concern among US Congressmen and senators about the continuing restrictions on mobile and internet communications and detention of politicians in Kashmir Valley. The US Democratic presidential candidate, Elizabeth Warren, in her tweet expressed concerns over the restrictions and communication blockade and urged India to respect the rights of the Kashmiri people. The progressive senator said that she was concerned about recent events in Kashmir, including a continued communications blackout and other restrictions.”
On the other hand, a candle light freedom walk was held in London to express solidarity with the people of occupied Kashmir and condemn Indian brutalities in the territory. The participants included Children, men, women and youth who walked from Parliament Square to Indian High Commissioner.
For more information, contact:
Kashmir Media Service
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Email: info@kmsnews.org
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