Kashmiri Pandits settlement row: Strike affects normal life in valley

Srinagar: Normal life was affected in Kashmir on Saturday due to a strike called by separatist groups to protest against the proposed setting up of an exclusive township for the migrant minority community in the Valley.

Shops, business establishments, educational institutions and petrol pumps in Srinagar remained shut, while government offices and banks witnessed thin attendance, officials said.

They said public transport was off the roads, while private cars, cabs and auto-rickshaws plied at few places. Similar reports were received from other district headquarters of the Valley as well, the officials said.

Separatist groups including JKLF and all the factions of Hurriyat Conference called for a shutdown today against setting up of separate township for Kashmiri Pandits in the valley.

Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has clarified in the state Legislative Assembly that there were no plans of setting up separate township for the Kashmiri Pandits but steps will be taken for return of the minority community to the Valley.

Protest demonstrations were also held at some places including Maisuma area of Lal Chowk here yesterday against the proposed move.

A group of Kashmiri Pandits, living in the valley, also joined the JKLF-sponsored protest at Maisuma, saying there was no need and no use of making separate colonies for the migrant Pandits.