Strike in Kashmir Valley against killing of Shah

Most of the shops, business establishments, private offices and banks in the Valley remained closed due to the strike called by moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and JKLF chief Mohammad Yasin Malik, officials said.

Schools, colleges and other educational institutions also remained closed while transport services were also severely affected due to the strike.

However, some vehicles were seen plying on the roads in the civil lines areas of the city.

The attendance in government offices remained thin due to non-availability of transport services.

Security in several city areas like Lal Bazaar, Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rajouri Kadal, Maisuma, Batamaloo, Nawakadal and Safakadal areas has been beefed up following the killing of
Shah at Maisuma yesterday, they said.

Police and paramilitary troops have been deployed in strength in these areas to tackle any law and order situation, they said.

Shah was killed in the blast outside a mosque in Maisuma area of the city, minutes before he was scheduled to lead a Friday congregation.

Militants had used an IED planted on a bicycle near the rear entrance of the mosque where Shah used to lead Friday prayers. Several attempts were made on the life of Shah over the past several years.

Shah was actively involved in separatist politics and was close to the JKLF chief.