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SRINAGAR: Indian authorities on Friday shut down the internet in India-held Kashmir and sealed off the hometown of militant commander Burhan Wani, a day before the anniversary of his killing by the army, which had fuelled further unrest across the Himalayan region.
Wani, a commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen, who is best known for appearing on social media in military fatigues to urge young people to join the fight against Indian forces, was killed in southern Kashmir on July 8 last year.
On Friday, police halted people’s movements in his hometown of Tral, in a bid to forestall gatherings and demonstrations, witnesses said.
A security alert has been enforced across the Kashmir Valley, with some preventive arrests made ahead of the anniversary, Inspector General of Police Muneer Ahmad Khan said.
“The alert is not only for unlawful assembly of people and rallies but also for militant strikes,” he said.
Late on Thursday, authorities ordered internet service providers to shut down data services, citing the risk of anti-India elements using social media to stir up unrest in the disputed region.
Published in Dawn, July 8th, 2017
Comments (21)
When given freedom, there is misuse.
@Falak When there's misuse of freedom, there will be some reservation.
This is world's largest democracy.
Azadi is destined... occupation not going to last!
Rest in peace great son of Kashmir..!
India suppressing fundamental rights of Kashmiri people... World should condemned
It is about time for India to start meaningful dialog on Kashmir. India should immediately stop the game of death and destruction in Kashmir.
This is indeed a good step. This will prevent unnecessary vandalism done by misguided people.
You can't hide the truth, one day it will come out
Well done India! 1.25 Billion people are with Modi on this.
@Freeadssite.co.uk True brother, truth will win always, wait and see.
Good move. Appreciated.
@sheraz ahmed khan ...what about fundamental rights of kasmir pandits ?
@Bihari Babu means Kashmiri is right for freedom.
@Jaredlee67 Why do you think democracy is best form of government ?
Half a million soldiers in Kashmir could not suppress their will for freedom. Salute to my brothers in kashmir.
All patriotic Indian business people should start manufacturing units in Kashmir.The misguided people of kashmir will come back to normal life then.Poverty is one major problem in kashmir which make youth pelting stones for meagre salary.
@Abdulla Hussain .... India is going to start a dialog with whom? Not Pakistan.
@SATT .... What are you going to replace it with, meditation?
@sheraz ahmed khan . .. Internet is a privilege.. Not a right.
This is persecution not democracy, look at the LEADERS OF THE FREE WORLD sit in silence while India kills unarmed innocent people..Kashmir will be free and soon Inshallah.