Curfew extended to several areas in Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 19 (PTI) Curfew was today extended toseveral places in Kashmir as a precautionary measure in viewof the call for a march to Aripthan area of Budgam districtgiven by separatists against the death of four civilians inclashes between CRPF and protesters there on August 16. "Curfew has been extended to many towns includingAripathan and Magam areas in Budgam district to maintain lawand order," a police official said. Normal life remained paralysed for the 42nd day in theValley which has been rocked by violence after the killing ofHizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter withsecurity forces on July 8. Curfew also remained in force in entire Srinagardistrict, Anantnag town, Pampore town, Shopian town, Khanporain Baramulla, Ganderbal town and Kaloosa in Bandipora districttoday, the official said. Restrictions on the movement of the people were in forcein rest of the Valley. The separatist camp, headed by Syed Ali Shah Geelani,Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik, has extended theagitation till August 25. They had called for a march toAripthan area of Budgam today. Schools, colleges and private offices remained closedwhile public transport remained off roads. The attendance ingovernment offices was thin. Mobile internet and telephonyservices also remained suspended. As many as 64 persons including two police personnel havebeen killed and several thousand others injured in the clashesthat began on July 9. PTI MIJRT