On International Human Rights Day, Indian Kashmir observed complete shutdown to protest awarding of life sentence to two Kashmiri youth.

Srinagar, Dec 10/Nationalturk- The normal life in Indian administered Kashmir was paralysed  on Monday (International Human Rights Day)  in response to the strike called by separatist groups to protest against awarding of life sentence to two Kashmiri by a court.

All shops, business establishments, educational institutions, government offices, private institutions in Srinagar, summer capital of Indian administered Kashmir, and other parts of the region were closed. The work in the banks was also affected.

The public transport remained off the roads. However, some private vehicles were plying on the deserted roads.

The strike was called by pro-independence group JKLF to protest awarding of life sentence by a court to two Kashmiris, who happen to by its senior leaders.

“About 22-year old cases are being opened afresh. The court has awarded life sentence to Showkat Ahmed and Nazir Ahmed Sheikh and we strongly condemn it. During last two years, dozens of Kashmiris have been awarded life imprisonment,” a JKLF spokesman had said.

The strike call was supported by all other separatist groups and leaders.

JKLF leaders on hunger strike

The leaders of JKLF are sitting on hunger strike at party headquarters in Srinagar from this morning. Among those who have gone on hunger strike including party chairman and former militant commander Mohammad Yasin Malik.

“The hunger strike will be from 1000 hours to   1700 hours. After the end of the hunger strike,  a candle light march will be organized in which all JKLF leaders, activists and members of civil society and public will participate,” JKLF spokesman said.

He urged the international human rights organizations and world leaders to intervene and pressurize Indian government to stop awarding of death sentences to Kashmiris.

On December 3 this year, a court awarded life sentences to two Kashmiris Nazir Ahmed Sheikh and Showkat Ahmed. The duo have spent nearly 15 years in jails without trial after being arrested in 1990s. They were released on bail over 7 years ago but rearrested recently.

Earlier, senior separatist leader r Qasim Faktoo was sentenced to life imprisonment under similar circumstance. He had completed more than 15 years in jail. However, the court said the lifer means “life sentence” in jail and not “14 or 16 years in jail”.

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Faiz Ahmad / NationalTurk India News

 

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