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J&K: Restrictions Lifted In Jammu, To Continue In Some Places Of Kashmir

The main focus of the administration is now on Independence Day celebrations in Jammu & Kashmir, says J&K Police’s Munir Khan.

CRPF personnel stand guard on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway on the eve of  73rd Independence Day celebrations. (Photo: PTI)
CRPF personnel stand guard on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway on the eve of 73rd Independence Day celebrations. (Photo: PTI)

Restrictions in Jammu have been completely lifted but will continue for some more time in a few areas of the Kashmir Valley, a senior Jammu & Kashmir police officer said in Srinagar on Wednesday.

The situation is totally under control, said J&K Police's Additional Director General Munir Khan. There were isolated incidents in various parts of Srinagar and other districts in the Valley, but these were contained and dealt with locally.

There have been no major injuries to anyone, he said at a press conference, adding that there were a few people with pellet injuries in the Kashmir Valley; they have been treated. "Our biggest endeavour is to ensure there is no civilian casualty," Khan told reporters.

When asked about the number of people detained, Khan said he would not talk about individuals. "In a law and order situation like this, there are different kinds of detention. Preventive detention to ensure the established miscreants do not vitiate the peaceful atmosphere...so you have to take preventive steps," he said.

The main focus of the administration and the police is now on the Independence Day celebrations on Thursday, Khan said. "All arrangements are in place to ensure peaceful celebrations throughout the state."

Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal, who was also present at the press conference, said the overall situation in J&K remains calm. "Further relaxations in prohibitory orders have been given in a large number of areas, including in Srinagar. And these relaxations will continue to be given till this afternoon," he said.

On all other fronts—civil supplies, national highways, airport, medical facilities—the situation was normal, Kansal said.

"Local authorities, as before, are keeping a close watch on the situation and offering relaxations wherever the situation warrants it," he said.

Giving details of the situation in Kashmir Valley, Khan said curbs are in place in certain places. Restrictions, he added, are imposed after assessing the overall situation of that particular area.

"It is not like restrictions are imposed in a generalised manner. After assessing the situation of a particular area, restrictions are imposed... relaxation is also given after assessing the situation (of the area concerned)," the police officer said.

It is for the district administration—the district magistrate and district superintendent of police—to assess the situation and take steps necessary to maintain peace, and law and order.

When Asked about propaganda from Pakistan, Khan said the neighbouring country unleashes such propaganda whenever there is any major law and order situation in J&K and all measures are being taken to thwart its attempts.

"You will see the results very soon," he said.

Responding to a query about some Twitter accounts circulating fake news and spreading misinformation, the officer said they have been identified and action initiated against them.

His message to the people of Kashmir, he said, was to celebrate India’s Independence Day with fervour.

The Kashmir shutdown came into effect on Aug. 5 when the Centre revoked Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir and passed the J&K Reorganisation Bill, 2019, to split the state into two union territories of J&K and Ladakh.