Kishtwar, July 17: A complete shutdown was observed across Kishtwar district on Saturday in response to a strike call given by the Markazi Jamia Masjid, Kishtwar, over the killing of a youth, Arif Hussain, in the Jai area of Bhaderwah in Doda district.
Markets, business establishments, educational institutions and transport services remained closed in several parts of the district, while normal life was affected.
The strike was called by the Imam of Markazi Jamia Masjid, Kishtwar, who appealed to the public to observe a peaceful shutdown as a mark of solidarity with the deceased and his family.
During yesterday’s sermons, religious leaders had urged people to maintain communal harmony and peace and refrain from any activity that could disturb law and order or create tension.
The shutdown was observed amid heightened public concern following the Bhaderwah incident in which Arif Hussain lost his life during an operation involving security personnel. According to the official version, the youth was killed after he allegedly attempted to snatch the rifle of security personnel. However, his family has disputed the claim, alleging that he was killed in cold blood and demanding an impartial investigation.
Authorities maintained a heightened security presence across Kishtwar to ensure that the shutdown passed off peacefully without any untoward incident. [KNT]
