Authorities block internet, impose restrictions in Kashmir Valley

Srinagar, July 7 (IANS) Authorities on Friday blocked internet and broadband services in the Kashmir Valley and imposed curfew-like restrictions in parts of Srinagar city as separatists have called for protests marking the death anniversary of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.

Wani was killed last year in a gunfight with security forces in Anantnag district’s Kokernag area.

A 54-days unrest followed Wani’s death in which 94 civilian protesters were killed and over 200 others injured.

All senior separatist leaders have been either detained or placed under house arrest to prevent their participation in the valley-wide protests.

District Magistrate Srinagar Farooq Ahmad Lone has issued orders to impose restrictions in areas falling under the jurisdictions of five — Rainawari, Nowhatta, M.R. Gunj, Khanyar, Safa Kadal — police stations in the city.

Munir Ahmad Khan, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir zone ordered the suspension of internet facility both on mobile phones and fixed landline broadband connections for an indefinite period of time.