Srinagar under tight security as Hurriyat leaders march to UN office

Srinagar, Aug 18: The civil lines area of Srinagar is under heavy security blanket in view of the proposed march by Hurriyat Conference’s Coordination Committee to the United Nations Military Observers Group office to present a memorandum over the alleged human rights violations in the Valley on Monday.

The security has been beefed up in all important installations around the area.

According to reports, the Hurriyat leaders will march to a spot near the UN office, then a small group will go inside as the Government has requested them to keep the crowds small, worrying that a large group could lead to fresh clashes with security forces.

Authorities have been given instructions to use maximum restraint with minimum use of force and not to use bullets to disperse crowds.

Meanwhile, in Jammu, a three-day “jail bharo aandolan” called by the Shri Amarnath Sangharsh Samiti (SASS) begins today. As a part of the Samiti’s plans to intensify their protests, male supporters will demonstrate and court arrest on Monday, followed by women on Tuesday and children on Wednesday, a senior Samiti leader Brigadier Suchet Singh told reporters on Sunday in Jammu.

On the other hand, State Governor NN Vohra has extended invitation to SASS leaders for talks so as to find an amicable solution to the land dispute.

The Samiti, which so far had been refusing to talk to the Governor, said they are open to talks with the Government.

The BJP, which is sympathizing with the agitating Hindus in Jammu, has also announced a similar all India “jail bharo andolan” on August 21. (ANI)