Kashmir observes shutdown against killings 

SRINAGAR SEP 17 (PTK): Kashmir valley observed a shutdown today against killing of five militants and a civilian on September 15 in Chogam Qazigund of South Kashmir.  The call to observe complete strike was given by Joint Resistance Leadership.

All shops, business establishments, schools and colleges, petrol pumps were closed in north, South and central Kashmir. Restrictions were imposed in old city Srinagar and Sopore as well. Public transport was also off the roads but light motor vehicles were seen plying on the roads.

Heavy deployment of forces was put in place in sensitive towns of the Valley to thwart any attempts of people to hold – pro freedom demonstrations.

Five local militants were killed in a fierce a gunfight with forces in Chogam village in Qazigund. Protests erupted between locals and forces near the encounter site with forces using bullets, pellets and tear smoke shells to disperse them.

Almost thirty people were injured in the clashes including five being shifted to Srinagar hospitals with bullet wounds. One among the grievously injured Rouf Ahmad succumbed to injuries while being evacuated to SKIMS.  He was hit by bullet in throat. (PTK)