[Onthebarricades] KASHMIR Unrest and protests, Sept-Dec 2008

[global resistance roundup]

* 27 Dec - Separatists disrupt election, clash with voters
* 24 Dec - "High" election turnout despite protests; protesters battle 
police
* 21 Dec - 9 injured during anti-election protests
* 19 Dec - repression ahead of elections
* 17 Dec - clashes over election
* 14 Dec - Pulwana - protests, shooting mar poll
* 12 Dec - Quil village - Protester killed in election protest
* 7 Dec - Stone-throwing during anti-poll protests
* 5 Dec - Sexual attack on girl sparks anti-soldier protests
* 30 Nov - Kupwara - women stage anti-election rally
* 23 Nov- Srinagar - shutdown in protest of elections
* 23 Nov - Jammu - candidates clash
* 22 Nov - Baramulla - protester killed as police open fire on election 
protests
* 21 Nov - "undeclared curfew" ahead of elections
* 17 Nov - Bandipur - women stage anti-election protest
* 7 Nov - Srinagar - statists fail to stop rally, stone-throwing
* 2 Nov - Yasin Malik arrested under PSA, youths respond with protests, 
stones and shutdown
* 28 Oct - human chain protest, general strike lead to shutdown
* 27 Oct - protesters resist curfew, stone cops on occupation anniversary
* 26 Oct - Baramulla - protester killed by Indian soldiers during 
protest over arrests
* 24-25 Oct - general strike leads to shutdown, clashes
* 17-18 Oct - Srinagar - fresh protests and clashes
* 14 Oct - New Delhi - Kashmir solidarity sit-in
* 12 Oct - Srinagar - 25 hurt in clashes during protests over state killings
* 10-11 Oct - Srinagar - 2 killed, dozens injured during PM visit
* 7 Oct - Pakistan PM effigy burnt over "terrorist" comment
* 5 Oct - vicious anti-protest ban announced
* 24 Sept - Srinagar - protest after grenade attack against separatist






http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/PoliticsNation/Voters_clash_with_separatists_in_Srinagar_results_on_Sunday/articleshow/3898563.cms

Voters clash with separatists in Srinagar; results on Sunday
27 Dec 2008, 0207 hrs IST, Masood Hussain, ET Bureau

SRINAGAR: Even as Jammu &Kashmir waits for election results, anti-poll 
activists have clashed with voters in many places here. Over a dozen
people were reportedly injured in these clashes that included a 
middle-aged man, who received a bullet injury in police action on Thursday.

On Thursday, there were reports of certain groups operating in many city 
localities and marshaling individuals carrying indelible ink marks on 
their fingers. By afternoon, they attacked a few houses in old city.

The attackers, mostly young men and non-voters, alleged they attacked 
the houses of those who were claiming to be with the Tehreek (movement), 
but were eventually seen voting on Wednesday. A similar attack was 
reported from Chanpora as well. A group pelted stones on the ancestral 
home of a PDP leader in Batamaloo. After seven weeks, Jamia Masjid in 
Srinagar witnessed a Friday congregation. Separatist Mirwaiz Umer Farooq 
told the congregation that an election held in presence of a few lakh 
soldiers is not credible, and will not impact the disputed status of 
Kashmir. This was his first public appearance after remaining under 
house arrest for over two months.

In a separate incident on Friday, supporters of two contestants from the 
Shia locality of Zadibal clashed with each other. In almost an hour of 
rioting, they damaged many houses till the police restored order. The 
votes are being counted on Sunday, and results will be out well before 
dusk.







http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/12/23/kashmir.vote/index.html?eref=rss_world

December 24, 2008 -- Updated 1722 GMT (0122 HKT)

 From Mukhtar Ahmad CNN

SRINAGAR, Kashmir (CNN) -- The heavily guarded, seventh and final phase 
of voting for a state assembly ended Wednesday in Srinagar, the summer 
capital of Indian-administered Kashmir. Results are expected Sunday.

Voters line up in Jammu amid tight security.

Kashmir, divided between India and Pakistan and claimed by both, has 
been wracked by an 18-year, bloody separatist campaign that authorities 
say has left at least 43,000 dead.
The regional elections began in November after months of violent 
protests by anti-Indian groups, fearful state elections will firm up 
Indian control of the Muslim majority Himalayan state, and by Indian 
nationalists, fearful that separatist groups will gain control.
Anti-election protests erupted Wednesday at more than a dozen places in 
Srinagar as angry youths shouted pro-independence slogans and pelted 
paramilitary troops with rocks and bricks. Security forces responded 
with tear gas and batons.
Separatists had called for an election boycott and march to the historic 
city center, Lal Chowk, for a sit-in, but troops sealed off the main 
thoroughfares with coils of razor wire and pre-fabricated barricades.
Kashmir was placed under curfew-like restrictions Tuesday to help 
prevent protest marches.
Officials said voter turnout in the tense city was low. Srinagar has 
been the vanguard of the anti-voting campaign ever since the elections 
were announced by the Indian government in October.
Streets were mostly empty of citizens Wednesday morning, as thousands of 
Indian paramilitary units and police were spread among the eight 
constituencies eligible to cast ballots. More voters ventured out in the 
afternoon.
"I am voting for good governance and basic civic amenities lacking in 
this city," said Nazir Ahmed while leaving a polling station at Khanyar, 
in Srinagar's Old City.
In contrast, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din told CNN, "We are not voting. Elections 
are no solution to this lingering Kashmir problem, which can only be 
resolved through negotiations."
Voting was more brisk in Indian-controlled, Hindu-majority Jammu, 
Kashmir's winter capital.
Referring to the tensions between India and Pakistan, Indian Prime 
Minister Manmohan Singh said Tuesday the issue is "dismantling of the 
terror machine by Pakistan and not war."
One of the most active militant groups in Kashmir has been 
Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (LeT).
India blames LeT for last month's brutal massacre of more than 160 
people in Mumbai, India, and has demanded that Pakistan hand over 
leaders of the group. LeT has denied responsibility.
Also Tuesday, Indian police said they arrested three Pakistani 
militants, one of whom they said is in the Pakistani army. Pakistan 
denied he is an active-duty soldier.
The three were arrested during a raid on a hotel in Jammu, where police 
claimed they were on a "Mumbai-style shooting and bombing mission."
Kashmir has been a point of contention between the two countries since 
the division of the subcontinent in 1947. The neighbors have fought two 
wars over the territory and narrowly avoided a third war in 1999.
Human rights groups and NGOs contest the official claim of at least 
43,000 dead in the separatist campaign, putting the number of dead at 
twice the official figure.






http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1868687,00.html

Big Turnout, Amid Protests, in Kashmir Vote
By Yusuf Jameel/Srinagar Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2008

An Indian paramilitary soldier stands guard as Kashmiri Muslims stand in 
a queue to cast their votes outside a polling station in Srinagar, the 
summer capital of Indian Kashmir, 24, December, 2008.
Farooq Khan / EPA

Election day in Srinagar, the summer capital of Indian-administered 
Kashmir, brought thousands of people onto the streets — but a majority 
of them appeared to be in uniform, armed with assault rifles and long 
bamboo sticks. enforcing strict security restrictions. Security was 
tight for the final phase of a staggered poll that will elect an 
87-member Jammu and Kashmir Assembly to a six-year term. The atmosphere 
on the streets, and inside the heavily-policed polling stations, was 
predictably tense, but unlike in previous elections, the main security 
threat this time came not from Pakistan-backed militants but from 
disgruntled locals who have taken to the streets this year to vent their 
anger against Indian rule. That anger translated into an election 
boycott that failed to keep 60% of voters away from the polls throughout 
the territory, although it did prompot a majority stay away in parts of 
Srinagar.
At one point on election day, crowds had gathered to chant "we want 
freedom", but they were driven off the streets of Srinagar by policemen 
wielding bamboo sticks and firing tear gas. Anti-India sentiment runs 
deep in Srinagar, where most people favor either independence or a 
merger with Pakistan. But outside the old town, a moderate polling was 
underway, as people lined up to vote, they said, for better roads and 
drinking-water supplies, an end to frequent power cuts and more job 
opportunities for the region's unemployed youth. (See images of 
Kashmir's previous election)
Voting in earlier stages of the election had been largely peaceful, with 
a higher-than-expected turnout of more than 60%, though scattered 
anti-India protests continued throughout the staggered election process. 
On November 17, more than half of over 600,000 eligible voters cast 
their ballot in the first phase of voting in the hilly districts of 
Bandipore, Leh, Kargil and Poonch, all of which border the Line of 
Control that separates the Indian- and Pakistani-administered sides of 
Kashmir.
Large numbers of voters in other regions appeared to follow suit in 
rejecting the boycott call. New Delhi takes pride in this "constructive" 
change in the mindset of Kashmir's Muslim majority. India's Foreign 
Minister Pranab Mukherjee said recently in Srinagar, "It has been quite 
encouraging that a large number of people has come out to vote... It is 
significantly higher [turnout] compared to the elections held in the 
past which is a very important development. It shows people's faith in 
India democracy."
The positive turnout is all the more remarkable in light of the turmoil 
of recent weeks, which began in June when furious Kashmiris took to the 
streets in furious protest against the local government's decision to 
transfer a piece of forestland to a Hindu consortium. The completion of 
the final round of elections has left the authorities feeling 
vindicated: "The people have, once again, shown their faith in 
democracy, despite many constraints, difficulties and threats," said 
Jammu and Kashmir governor N.N.Vohra. "Indian democracy has triumphed 
yet again."
Still, even if the boycott proved weak, separatist voices are unlikely 
to be silenced and may be fueled by the tough security measures adopt to 
squelch dissent. The Kashmir Valley's chief Muslim cleric and leader of 
separatist Hurriyat Conference alliance Mirwaiz Umar Farooq termed the 
elections a "farce", and alleged ballot stuffing and other 
irregularities by by "goons" working for the government and various 
pro-India political parties. "India which claims to be the world's 
largest democracy stands naked before the International community after 
what was done and seen happening today," Umar charged. "They can't 
impose curfew and then hold elections under the barrel of a gun."
The election to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly may have been 
successfully completed, then, but the underlying conflict over the 
region's status that has simmered since 1948 clearly remains unresolved.







http://www.dawn.com/2008/12/24/rss.htm#e8

Police, protesters clash in final leg of Kashmir vote Wednesday, 24 Dec, 
SRINAGAR: Police fired tear gas and clashed with protesters Wednesday in 
Indian-administered Kashmir, where tens of thousands of soldiers were 
deployed for the seventh and final leg of multi-stage state elections. 
At least 20 people were injured in the violence between the security 
forces and anti-poll demonstrators in Srinagar, where voter turnout was 
low in line with a boycott call by separatist groups. Around 30,000 
troops were deployed on the streets of the city, which has long been the 
hub of a 20-year insurgency against Indian rule in the Muslim-majority 
region. Another 20,000 soldiers patrolled the districts of Jammu and 
Samba where balloting was also taking place. 'I fail to understand if 
the Indians are holding elections or going to war,' complained Srinagar 
resident Mohammed Hafiz, 60. (Posted @ 14:48 PST)







http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Anti-poll_protests_in_Srinagar_turn_violent_9_injured/rssarticleshow/3870258.cms

Anti-poll protests in Srinagar turn violent; 9 injured
21 Dec 2008, 1742 hrs IST, PTI

SRINAGAR: At least nine persons including three policemen were injured 
when anti-poll protesters on Sunday attacked supporters of two 
candidates in Srinagar and indulged in stone pelting at several places 
on penultimate day of campaigning for the final phase of J-K Assembly 
elections.

Shouting anti-election slogans, groups pelted stones on police and 
paramilitary forces at Jamia Masjid and adjoining areas including 
Nowhatta, Gojwara and Rajouri Kadal in downtown Srinagar, official 
sources said.

Police used batons to disperse the protestors and in the ensuing 
clashes, four persons including two policemen were injured, while shops 
and business establishments were closed and traffic came to a standstill.

Four persons including a policeman were injured when supporters of 
separatists' Co-ordination Committee which has called for a boycott of 
elections pelted stones on the cavalcade of an independent candidate in 
Habbakadal constituency.

A group of youth, shouting pro-freedom slogans, appeared at Asyed Ali 
Akbar and pelted stones on the cavalcade of independent candidate Bilal 
Ahmad Parra, a senior leader of People's Democratic Front, who was 
holding a roadshow, the sources said.

The youths were later chased by police and paramilitary personnel, the 
sources said.

A police guard also fire in air following a clash between supporters of 
national conference and its arch rival PDP at Khanyar locality of 
interior city, they said. No one was hurt in the shooting but one person 
was injured in the brick-batting between the two sides.






http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/dec/19jk-restrictions-in-kashmir-to-prevent-protests.htm

Restrictions in Kashmir to prevent protests

December 19, 2008 13:09 IST

Curfew-like situation prevailed in Kashmir Valley today, as authorities 
imposed stringent restrictions on the movement of people to prevent 
separatists from staging protest rallies during the day.
Thousands of security personnel have been deployed in Srinagar [Images] 
and other major towns of the Valley as the Separatist Coordination 
Committee (SSC) had called for protests after Friday prayers against the 
ongoing Assembly elections.
In wake of restrictions imposed by the administration and strike call by 
the separatists, all shops, business establishments, government offices, 
banks, courts, educational institutes and other semi-government 
institutions are closed, officials said.
Vehicles were also off the roads here and in other parts of the Valley, 
they said.
The SCC gave a strike call and peaceful protests against the polls after 
Friday prayers. "We appeal people to stage peaceful protests after 
prayers to protest against the polls
which are being held to hoodwink the international community about the 
Kashmir dispute," chairman of Hurriyat Conference Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said.
"We hope people of Srinagar will respect the sacrifices of martyrs," he 
said, claiming, "People should stay away from so-called elections which 
have no legitimacy in Kashmir."
Police and paramilitary personnel were seen patrolling the deserted 
streets in bid to foil attempts by separatists to stage protests.
Government employees and residents alleged that security personnel were 
not allowing them to come out of their houses as if curfew had been imposed.
"Police vehicles fitted with public address systems made a round of the 
city in the wee hours asking people not to venture out of their houses 
as curfew has been imposed," a resident claimed.
Police, however, denied any curfew, saying security forces have been 
given strict orders not to allow gathering of four or more people at any 
place as Section 144 of the CrPC was in force.
Officials said preventive measures were taken to maintain law and order 
and to prevent loss of any life or property which takes place during the 
protests.
There is no report of any untoward incident from anywhere in the Valley 
so far and the situation is under control, sources said.
While most of the separatists have been arrested since the announcement 
of election schedule for the state on October 19, chairmen of both 
factions of Hurriyat Conference, the Mirwaiz, and Syed Ali Shah Geelani 
had been placed under house arrest.






http://feeds.bignewsnetwork.com/?sid=444039

Restrictions imposed to prevent anti-poll protests in Srinagar
________________________________________

IANS Friday 19th December, 2008
The separatist joint co-ordination committee Friday called for anti-poll 
shutdown and protests, leading again to imposition of restrictions here, 
an official said.

The co-ordination committee of both the separatist Hurriyat groups 
headed by hardliners Syed Ali Geelani and Mirwaiz Umer Farooq asked 
people to observe a total shutdown and hold anti-poll protests in 
Srinagar city.

The voting for eight assembly constituencies in Srinagar is scheduled 
for Dec 24 in the seventh and final phase of the staggered elections in 
Jammu and Kashmir.

Markets, banks, traffic and other routine day to day activities remained 
suspended in the city as heavy deployment of the police and the Central 
Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was made by the authorities to prevent 
violence and clashes in the city Friday.

'The restrictions are purely preventive to ensure that miscreants do not 
create any law and order problem in the city.

'These restrictions are only for trouble mongers and not against 
peace-loving citizens. Strict orders have been issued to ensure that the 
people be facilitated for offering the Friday prayers throughout the 
city,' a senior police officer told IANS here.

It must be mentioned that the separatists are actually warming up their 
resistance programme to dissuade the voters in the eight seats of 
Srinagar city from exercising their franchise.






http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/polling-picks-up-in-jammu-clashes-in-kashmir-second-lead_100132008.html

Polling picks up in Jammu, clashes in Kashmir (Second Lead)
December 17th, 2008 - 4:50 pm ICT by IANS -
Srinagar/Jammu, Dec 17 (IANS) As the cloudy and bitterly cold weather 
improved by noon, more people queued up to vote in the sixth phase of 
the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir Wednesday. But while polling was 
peaceful in Jammu, clashes were reported in parts of the Kashmir 
Valley.Despite a heavy cloud cover, voters turned up in almost all the 
10 south Kashmir constituencies of Anantnag and Kulgam districts to 
elect representatives to the 87-member assembly.
In the Jammu region, where six seats in three districts went to the 
polls, around 40 percent voters had queued up to vote by noon. Former 
chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad of the Congress is a heavyweight 
contestant Wednesday.
In Kashmir, Homeshalibugh constituency with 22.5 percent voting marked 
the lowest turnout while Dooru with 63.3 percent marked the highest in 
the first four hours after balloting began.
In Anantanag, 30 percent voting was recorded while during the 2002 
assembly polls only seven percent of voters had exercised their franchise.
Supporters of the National Conference and the Congress clashed in Dooru 
constituency from where former minister Ghulam Ahmad Mir of the Congress 
is seeking re-election.
Reports of clashes between supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party 
(PDP) and the Congress have also come in from Kokernag constituency 
where former Congress minister Peerzada Muhammad Sayeed is seeking 
re-election.
In Noorabad, former PDP minister Abdul Aziz Zargar, seeking re-election, 
faces a tough challenge from National Conference’s Sakina Itoo, who was 
a minister till the National Conference lost power in Jammu and Kashmir 
in 2002 elections.
In the Jammu region, with over 450,000 voters and 108 candidates for the 
six seats at stake in Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar districts, there was 
massive voter interest.
Former chief minister Azad was safely placed in Bhaderwah constituency 
although Mohammad Aslam Goni of the National Conference is expected to 
give a semblance of a contest. Mujib Ali of PDP does not have much of a 
following while the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Daya Krishan Kotwal 
is expected to garner some Hindu votes.
Many in the constituency were angry that Azad was made to quit as chief 
minister following the Amarnath land row by the Kashmir-centric PDP.
Imtiyaz Khateeb, a college student, said he and his friends have 
“decided to vote for Azad”. “After casting our vote, we will get others 
to vote as early as possible,” he added.
National Conference supporters too were eager to vote early for Goni, 
whose family has strong roots in the town.
“Azad is good but we have to look at the larger picture. I don’t think 
the Congress will be able to form the government this time,” said Javed 
Iqbal, a long time National Conference supporter.
Deployment of election officials in remote and far flung mountainous 
polling stations in Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban districts had become a big 
challenge amid snowfall and rains since Tuesday afternoon.







http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/14/stories/2008121454541000.htm

Front Page
Protests, firing mar polling in Pulwama
Shujaat Bukhari
Youth dies as police and CRPF open fire; voting in fifth phase of J&K 
Assembly elections put at 57 per cent
Photos: — Nissar Ahmad and Akhilesh Kumar

Braving the cold: People wait outside a polling station in Pulwama on 
Saturday. (Below) A jawan stands guard at a booth in the Hiranagar 
constituency in Kathua district.
PULWAMA: Polling in the fifth phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly 
elections was marred by the killing of a youth in police firing as 
anti-poll protests rocked Quil and other areas in Pulwama district.
But all segments in Pulwama and Shopian districts witnessed moderate to 
brisk polling.
It was 48 per cent in two segments in Shopian and 47 per cent in four 
constituencies in Pulwama.
Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Masaud Samoon said 66 per cent turnout 
was recorded in Jammu’s Kathua district, where elections were held in 
five segments. The overall percentage in Saturday’s exercise was put at 57.
Braving the chill weather, a large number of people turned up at booths 
in the Wachi, Shopian, Pulwama, Rajpora, Tral and Pampore segments 
despite the boycott call given by separatists. But the situation took an 
ugly turn at Quil when police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) 
personnel allegedly forced people to come out and vote, and ransacked 
their houses. This evoked resentment among the people, who gathered in 
large numbers and shouted anti-election slogans. The police and CRPF 
tried to disperse them but they were stoned. They later opened fire, in 
which at least four people were injured, of whom Muzaffar Ahmad, 21, 
died in hospital.
Following this incident, the Quil area with over 3,000 voters witnessed 
a complete boycott.
The people were angry as they restlessly waited for Muzaffar’s body to 
arrive from Srinagar. In the neighbouring villages, and also in Parigam 
and Karimabad, the election was boycotted.
However, later in the day, voters came out in good numbers at several 
places and the turnout picked up. Both Shopian and Pulwama districts are 
considered a stronghold of the People’s Democratic Party. Its president 
Mehbooba Mufti is contesting in Wachi.
But in some areas many booths wore a deserted look as the boycott call 
evoked near-total response.
Interestingly, the militancy-infested Tral town witnessed huge polling. 
Long queues were seen outside booths.
Roads sealed
Authorities had made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth polling. 
All roads leading to Pulwama were sealed to thwart marches by 
separatists. Senior separatist leaders including Syed Ali Geelani and 
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq have been put under house arrest, and Srinagar and 
other towns are under an undeclared curfew. Both leaders condemned the 
police firing on protesters.
Mr. Samoon told journalists that a magisterial inquiry was ordered into 
the Quil incident. The Pulwama Deputy Commissioner was asked to give his 
report within 15 days.







http://www.thefrontierpost.com/News.aspx?ncat=ts&nid=3334&ad=14-12-2008

Protester killed in Held Kashmir voting SRINAGAR (AP): Voters cast their 
ballots in the fifth phase of state elections in Indian Kashmir on 
Saturday as scattered clashes between protesters and government forces 
left one person dead. A 20-year-old protester died after police opened 
fire to control a spiraling protest at Koil village, about 16 miles (25 
kilometers) south of Srinagar, Kashmir’s Police Chief B. Srinivas said. 
Two other protesters were wounded, he said. The elections for Kashmir’s 
state legislature started Nov. 17 and are to be held in seven phases 
through Dec. 24. Voting was largely peaceful in the first four phases, 
with a higher than expected turnout of more than 60 percent. Saturday’s 
was the first election-day death in clashes between protesters and 
police since the staggered voting began. Anti-India sentiment runs deep 
in Kashmir, where most people either favor independence or a merger with 
Pakistan. Kashmir is divided between the two rival countries and both 
claim it in its entirety. Militant separatist groups have been fighting 
since 1989 to end Indian rule. The uprising and a subsequent Indian 
crackdown have killed about 68,000 people, most of them civilians. On 
Saturday, thousands of paramilitary soldiers and police officers wearing 
bulletproof jackets and carrying automatic weapons patrolled polling 
stations. Hundreds of protesters chanting pro-independence slogans 
clashed with forces in several areas, a police officer said on condition 
of anonymity in keeping with department policy. Police fired warning 
shots and tear gas to drive away protesters, and at least 17 
paramilitary soldiers and policemen were injured, the officer said. At 
Sambura and Karimabad villages, residents alleged that soldiers and 
police coerced them to vote. “They threatened us to vote, which we 
refused to do. As a revenge they came in and beat up our women to 
disgrace us,” said Tawheed Ahmed, a resident of Karimabad. Srinivas 
denied the allegations. Separatist leaders have called for a boycott of 
the elections, saying they will only entrench India’s hold on the 
restive region. However, early voter turnout was high, despite the 
security and the chilly weather. More than 800,000 of the state’s 6.5 
million eligible voters live in the 11 areas where voting was taking 
place Saturday.







http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/FullcoverageStoryPage.aspx?sectionName=NLetter&id=6be1249a-c784-4977-9588-427caf219ac3BattleforBallot_Special&Headline=One+dead%2c+six+injured+in+J%26amp%3bK+poll+clashes

One dead, six injured in J&K poll clashes

Press Trust Of India
Pulwama , December 13, 2008
First Published: 14:14 IST(13/12/2008)
Last Updated: 16:14 IST(13/12/2008)

One person was killed and six others, including three policemen, were on 
Saturday injured in clashes between anti-poll agitators and securitymen 
in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to temporary suspension of polling at 
three polling stations of the district.
Eleven constituencies spread over three districts in Jammu region and 
Kashmir valley went to polls on Saturday in the fifth phase of elections 
to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.
Three persons were injured in the clashes between securitymen and 
anti-poll agitators at Quil village as law enforcing agencies fired in 
air and lobbed teargas shells to disperse the violent protesters who 
were trying to march towards the Pulwama district headquarters to 
disrupt the polling, officials sources said.
They said one of the injured identified as Muzamil Ahmad Ganai succumbed 
at the SMHS hospital in Srinagar.
The anti-poll protesters took to streets and pelted stones at the 
security forces when they stopped them from marching towards Pulwama, 
the sources said.
The polling was temporarily suspended in the polling station, the 
sources said, adding that a photo journalist of AFP, Rauf Bhat, was hit 
by a stone while covering the incident.
Three policemen were injured in the clash that took place outside a 
polling booth at Karimabad between the anti-poll agitators and the 
securitymen, the sources said.
Polling was temporaily suspended at the polling station due to the clash.







http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2008-12/2008-12-13-voa12.cfm?CFID=163395337&CFTOKEN=64064222&jsessionid=663014ce9eb5aa7ff56f134a51b7246654f2

Protester Killed During Voting in Indian Kashmir
By Shahnawaz Khan
Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir
13 December 2008

Indian policemen charge Kashmiri Muslim protesters with their batons 
during an anti-election protest in Koil, south of Srinagar, 13 Dec 2008
One person has died and several were injured as police clashed with 
protesters in Indian administered Kashmir during the fifth phase of 
seven-phased elections on Saturday.

Violence broke out early in the fifth phase of elections in 
Indian-administered Kashmir. Hundreds of anti-election protesters took 
to streets in Koil village of Pulwama district in Southern Kashmir and 
staged demonstrations. The demonstrators met resistance from the police.

Police also chased away demonstrators at several other places in the 
district.

Ishtiyaq Ahmad Ashai is the top civilian official in Pulwama district. 
"At Karimabad and Paigaon we had some minor incidents which have been 
brought under control, however some of our police personnel got 
injured," he said. "However at Koil, fire had to open [there was firing] 
which has resulted in injuries to three persons, who have been shifted 
to hospital."

Early in the morning an undeclared curfew was in efffect in Srinagar and 
major towns to prevent separatist marches. Eleven constituencies spread 
over three districts in Kashmir went to the polls Saturday.

Kashmiri separatists have called for a voting boycott, citing the fact 
that India uses elections to justify its control over the region. Most 
of the separatists have been either detained or put under house arrest 
in the last two months to prevent the poll boycott campaign. Some of 
them have been booked under the infamous Public Safety Act that allows 
detention without a trial for up to two years. Undeclared curfews and 
restrictions have prevented Friday prayers in Kashmir's largest mosque 
for the last six weeks.

Despite the boycott call an unprecedented number of people have cast 
their votes in the first four phases of voting.

The heavy turn out in Kashmir, where anti-India sentiment runs deep, has 
surprised many Kashmiri analysts. Weeks before the polls began, Kashmir 
had seen some of the largest pro-freedom demonstrations in decades.

The seven phased staggered voting process in Kashmir began on November 
17 and will conclude on December 24.

The staggered process allows authorities to move and deploy thousands of 
troops in each area to prevent violence and poll disruptions.






http://www.chinapost.com.tw/asia/india/2008/12/14/187626/Protester-killed.htm

Updated Sunday, December 14, 2008 10:26 am TWN, By Aijaz Hussain, AP
Protester killed in clash during Indian Kashmir polls
SRINAGAR, India -- Voters cast their ballots in the fifth phase of state 
elections in Indian Kashmir on Saturday as scattered clashes between 
protesters and government forces left one person dead.
A 20-year-old protester died after police opened fire to control a 
spiraling protest at Koil village, about 16 miles (25 kilometers) south 
of Srinagar, Kashmir’s Police Chief B. Srinivas said.
Two other protesters were wounded, he said.
The elections for Kashmir’s state legislature started Nov. 17 and are to 
be held in seven phases through Dec. 24.
Voting was largely peaceful in the first four phases, with a higher than 
expected turnout of more than 60 percent. Saturday’s was the first 
election-day death in clashes between protesters and police since the 
staggered voting began.
Anti-India sentiment runs deep in Kashmir, where most people either 
favor independence or a merger with Pakistan. Kashmir is divided between 
the two rival countries and both claim it in its entirety.
Militant separatist groups have been fighting since 1989 to end Indian 
rule. The uprising and a subsequent Indian crackdown have killed about 
68,000 people, most of them civilians.
On Saturday, thousands of paramilitary soldiers and police officers 
wearing bulletproof jackets and carrying automatic weapons patrolled 
polling stations.
Hundreds of protesters chanting pro-independence slogans clashed with 
forces in several areas, a police officer said on condition of anonymity 
in keeping with department policy.
Police fired warning shots and tear gas to drive away protesters, and at 
least 17 paramilitary soldiers and policemen were injured, the officer said.
At Sambura and Karimabad villages, residents alleged that soldiers and 
police coerced them to vote.
“They threatened us to vote, which we refused to do. As a revenge they 
came in and beat up our women to disgrace us,” said Tawheed Ahmed, a 
resident of Karimabad.
Srinivas denied the allegations.
Muslim separatist leaders have called for a boycott of the elections, 
saying they will only entrench India’s hold on the restive region.
However, early voter turnout was high, despite the security and the 
chilly weather.
More than 800,000 of the state’s 6.5 million eligible voters live in the 
11 areas where voting was taking place Saturday.






http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/india-news/one-killed-in-anti-election-protest-in-srinagar_100130678.html

One killed in anti-election protest in Srinagar
December 13th, 2008 - 11:17 pm ICT by ANI -
Srinagar, Dec. 13 (ANI): A protestor was killed and six, including three 
policemen, were injured in clashes between the anti- election protestors 
and the security personnel during the fifth phase of the seven phased 
state assembly polls Kashmir here on Saturday.
According to sources, a 20-year youth succumbed to his wounds in Quil 
Pulwama village, some 40 kilometers from here.
Police opened fire in the air to disperse the demonstrators who 
reportedly pelted them with stones.
The demonstrators said they were holding peaceful protest march.
An eyewitness, Inayat Ahmad said, “We carried a peaceful anti-election 
protest march. Security Forces opened fire on us, in which five youth. 
one has died and some are admitted in Pulwama hospital.”
Security forces had to fire and lob teargas shells to disperse the 
violent protesters who were trying to march towards the Pulwama District 
headquarters to disrupt polling.
Polling for 11 constituencies spread over three districts in Jammu 
region and Kashmir valley was held for the 87-member assembly.
The seven-phased poling in Jammu and Kashmir is to replace central rule 
imposed after the Congress party-led coalition government fell in July 
over a Hindu shrine land transfer row. The results will be declared on 
December 28.(ANI)






http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/20_injured_as_poll_protesters_clash_with_police_in_JK/rssarticleshow/3805219.cms

20 injured as poll protesters clash with police in J&K
7 Dec 2008, 1924 hrs IST, PTI

SRINAGAR: At least 20 people, including 11 securitymen, were injured as 
police lobbed teargas shells and used batons to disperse a stone-pelting
group of poll boycotters, during the fourth phase of elections on Sunday.

The clashes erupted in Jamia Masjid and adjoining areas of interior city 
shortly after authorities relaxed restrictions on the movement of people 
in view of the forth coming Eid, official sources said.

Shouting anti-election and pro-freedom slogans, groups of youth took to 
streets at Nowhatta, Bohri kadal, Zaina Kadal and Gojwara, and hurled 
stones at police and CRPF personnel, injuring 11 securitymen.

To disperse the mob, police and CRPF personnel lobbed teargas shells and 
used batons. At least nine protesters were injured in the police action.

A police spokesman said activists of Shaheed-e-Milat youth front, the 
youth wing of Mirwaiz Umer Farooq-led Awami Action Committee, were 
involved in the attack.

As many as 15 vehicles, including two of the government, and eight shops 
were damaged in stone-pelting, the spokesman added.






http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24765708-12335,00.html

Riots mar elections in India
 From correspondents in Sopore | December 07, 2008
Article from: Agence France-Presse
POLICE used tear gas, batons and rubber bullets to disperse hundreds of 
anti-election demonstrators in Indian Kashmir during the fourth phase of 
state elections.
The police action left 10 people injured in Sopore town, 50km north of 
the summer capital Srinagar, after hundreds of residents gathered to 
protest against the vote today.
Four photo-journalists were hurt in the violence.
"We were ruthlessly beaten up by the policemen for no reason,'' said one 
photographer who was admitted to hospital with a head injury.
Four more people were injured when police fired rubber bullets to 
disperse a similar protest in the neighbouring village of Dooru, police 
said.
Separatist politicians and rebels have called for a boycott of the 
polls, arguing elections strengthen New Delhi's hold over the region. 
However, the first three rounds of voting saw more than 60 per cent 
turnout.
Indian Kashmir was put under federal rule in July following the collapse 
of the state government over a land dispute that triggered a series of 
major anti-India demonstrations.






http://www.news.com.au/story/0,10117,24765769-401,00.html?from=public_rss


Violent riots mar elections in India
 From correspondents in Sopore
Agence France-Presse
December 07, 2008 12:35am

POLICE used tear gas, batons and rubber bullets to disperse hundreds of 
anti-election demonstrators in Indian Kashmir during the fourth phase of 
state elections.
The police action left 10 people injured in Sopore town, 50km north of 
the summer capital Srinagar, after hundreds of residents gathered to 
protest against the vote today.

Four photo-journalists were hurt in the violence.

"We were ruthlessly beaten up by the policemen for no reason,'' said one 
photographer who was admitted to hospital with a head injury.

Four more people were injured when police fired rubber bullets to 
disperse a similar protest in the neighbouring village of Dooru, police 
said.

Separatist politicians and rebels have called for a boycott of the 
polls, arguing elections strengthen New Delhi's hold over the region. 
However, the first three rounds of voting saw more than 60 per cent 
turnout.

Indian Kashmir was put under federal rule in July following the collapse 
of the state government over a land dispute that triggered a series of 
major anti-India demonstrations.







http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/voting-picks-up-slowly-amid-sporadic-protests-in-valley_100128056.html

Voting picks up slowly amid sporadic protests in Valley
December 7th, 2008 - 1:49 pm ICT by IANS -
Baramulla (North Kashmir) Dec 7 (IANS) Moderate to brisk polling was 
underway in 12 constituencies of the Kashmir Valley which went to polls 
Sunday in the fourth of the seven-phase elections in Jammu and Kashmir. 
Polling began Sunday in six constituencies of the Hindu-dominated Jammu 
region also.
Brisk voting was on in Uri, which registered 12 percent turnout in the 
first two hours of polling which began 8 a.m., followed by Gulmarg 
(seven), Pattan (4.5) and Rafiabad (four) constituencies of this north 
Kashmir district.
Polling is yet to pick up in the apple-rich Sopore, Sangrama and 
Baramulla constituencies in the same district. In Sopore, the hometown 
of separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani, the turnout was four percent till 
10 a.m. and no untoward incident was reported.
Sangrama reported 13 percent polling and Baramulla the lowest of 1.5. 
Officials said the polling in the north Kashmir region should be seen in 
the context of freezing temperatures and boycott calls by militants.
Reports from the central Badgam district indicate brisk polling at 
Khansahib (13 percent), Chadura (five), Beerwah (three), Badgam (6.9) 
and Charar-e-Sharief constituencies (2.3) there.
Long queues of voters were seen at many polling stations in Gulmarg 
constituency of Baramulla district where voters turned up right in the 
morning to exercise their franchise.
Voters also queued up in Singhpora and Hanjiwara villages, while voting 
was yet to pick up in Palhalan and Pattan towns of the Pattan 
constituency of Baramulla.
However, in the Shia Muslim majority villages of Pattan constituency, 
brisk polling was on.
Small anti-poll demonstrations took place at a few places in Sopore but 
the police and paramilitary forces chased the protesters away.
In Delina town of Baramulla constituency, an anti-poll protest was held 
by some local youth outside a polling station.
“The miscreants have been chased away and brisk polling is now going on 
at the polling station in Delina”, a police officer said.
In Chadura constituency of central Badgam district, a large number of 
people gathered to vote in Lasjan, Gowharpora and other polling 
stations. There was similar voter enthusiasm in Kramshore village of 
Khansahib constituency.
In Beerwah, Badgam and Charar-e-Sharief constituencies also, voting was 
picking up. “Polling is taking place normally without any major 
incident. We expect more voters to come out by midday”, a poll official 
told IANS.








http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/05/stories/2008120551500300.htm

Other States - Jammu & Kashmir

Protests against assault on girl by security forces
Srinagar: The police on Thursday fired teargas shells and used batons to 
disperse people protesting against the alleged molestation of a girl by 
security personnel in Kokernag area of Anantnag district in Jammu and 
Kashmir, official sources said.
The trouble started around midnight on Wednesday night when the girl 
came out of her house at Danipora village of Kokernag and raised an 
alarm alleging that some security personnel forcibly intruded into her 
room and tried to outrage her modesty, the sources said.
Police assurance
Irked by the act of the security personnel, the residents took to 
streets demanding action against the culprits. They dispersed after 
senior police officers rushed to the scene and assured them that 
appropriate action would be taken against the guilty.
They said the protesters again took to streets on Thursday morning 
demanding that a case be registered against the security personnel.
Protest turns violent
The police and civil officers said the matter had been taken up with the 
concerned security forces unit but this time the protesters turned 
violent and resorted to stone-pelting, the sources said.
Police fired teargas shells to disperse the protesters, they said. 
Clashes were on till the last reports. --PTI






http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/politics/anti-election-protests-in-kashmir_100125315.html

Anti-election protests in Kashmir
November 30th, 2008 - 12:36 pm ICT by IANS -
Kupwara, Nov 30 (IANS) Dozens of people, mostly women, Sunday took to 
the streets and shouted anti-election slogans in a village in Kupwara 
district during the third phase of polling in Jammu and Kashmir. The 
demonstration took place soon after polling stations opened in Trehgam 
village.
Police said one woman was injured when the Central Reserve Police Force 
(CRPF) tried to disperse the protestors, who were demanding suspension 
of the assembly elections and independence for Kashmir.
Trehgam, about 110 km from the state’s summer capital Srinagar, is the 
ancestral village of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) founder 
Mohammad Maqbool Butt. He was hanged at New Delh’s Tihar jail in 1983.
Polling took place Sunday in five assembly constituencies of Kupwara, 
Handwara, Lolab, Langate and Karnah in the district.
Sunday’s election will decide the fate of 71 candidates, including 31 
independents and five women.





http://www.tribuneindia.com/2008/20081124/main1.htm

Shutdown in Srinagar; clashes in Baramulla
Kumar Rakesh/Shariq Majeed
Tribune News Service
Grenade attacks on candidates’ houses
Some militant hurled a grenade towards the house of Abdul Rashid Ganai, 
Panthers Party candidate for the Kangan constituency, at Arhama, the 
police said. In another incident, militants hurled a grenade and fired 
towards the residence of Mohammad Abdullah Dar, candidate of the 
Democratic Nationalist Party in Sopore. The grenade exploded in the 
premises of the house but no harm was caused.
Srinagar/Rajouri, November 23
Srinagar observed a complete shutdown today as its neighbouring 
Ganderbal district went for polls while Baramulla in south Kashmir, 
where two youths were killed in firing yesterday, saw day-long clashes 
between protestors and security personnel.
Large number of protesters collected in Khanpora in old Baramulla town, 
which has traditionally been more restive, and they tried to march 
through the area. They raised pro-freedom slogans and lashed out at 
authorities for the death of two youths yesterday.
Locals said security forces in the old town prevented crowd from 
marching and lathicharged and fired tear gas shells. Though there was no 
official count of injuries, locals said over 30 locals were injured in 
clashes. Official sources said at least 10 of their men were also injured.
The summer capital of the state remained shut throughout the day as 
security personnel threw a cordon around city to ensure that there is no 
unwanted movement of people to adjacent Ganderbal. Separatists’ call for 
Ganderbal march was foiled today.
Meanwhile, supporters of political parties and independent candidates 
clashed in three assembly segments in Rajouri district, which went for 
polls today.
In Darhal constituency, NC supporters of party candidate Choudhary 
Liaqat allegedly hurled stones at the polling station in the Badi Darhal 
area, prompting the BSF personnel manning it open fire in air to control 
the situation. Five persons were injured in the incident, reports said. 
In Kalakote assembly segment, there were reports of violent clashes 
between supporters of NC candidate Rashpal Singh and independent 
candidate Ashok Sharma. At Brow polling station in Kalakote, four 
persons were reportedly injured in clashes between supporters of the NC 
and independent candidate. At Taryath polling station also, security 
forces had to fire in air to control the supporters of the same candidates.
There were reports of clashes between supporters of Singh and Sharma at 
Bandi polling station. At a polling station in Jawahar Nagar area of 
Rajouri constituency, supporters of independent candidate Muhammad 
Sharief Tariq and BJP candidate Vibodh Gupta resorted to stone pelting 
disrupting polling for about an hour.






http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/11/23/asia/kashmir.php

Protests against state elections spread in Kashmir

The Associated Press
Published: November 23, 2008

SRINAGAR, Kashmir: Hundreds of protesters threw rocks at a polling 
station and clashed with government soldiers in Indian-controlled 
Kashmir on Sunday during the second phase of state elections.
The police and paramilitary soldiers swung batons at protesters in 
Kurhama, a village north of Srinagar, the region's main city, a police 
official said.
The violence temporarily halted voting at the polling station, he said 
on condition of anonymity, in keeping with department policy.
Muslim separatist leaders have called for a boycott of the elections, 
saying they will only entrench India's hold on the restive region.
Protests against the elections were reported in four other villages, the 
police official said. There were no reports of injuries.
In a village near Kurhama, however, many people gathered to vote. "I'm 
exercising my right and we need to have our own government that will 
address our issues," said a first-time voter, Owais Ahmed Mir.
The elections come after a crackdown on separatist leaders and some of 
the largest protests against Indian rule in Jammu-Kashmir, the only 
Muslim-majority state in the country .
Thousands of paramilitary soldiers and police officers with bulletproof 
jackets and automatic weapons patrolled as voting took place in towns 
north of Srinagar.
Tension in the region heightened after government forces opened fire at 
an election protest Saturday, killing two Muslim protesters, including a 
student.
The elections for the state legislature started Nov. 17 and are to be 
held in seven phases through Dec. 24.
The staggered voting across the region allows the government to deploy 
thousands of security forces in each area in an attempt to prevent a 
repeat of deadly violence during 2002 elections and thwart separatist 
efforts to enforce the voting boycott.







http://www.bt.com.bn/en/asia_news/2008/11/23/two_killed_in_indian_kashmir_riots

Two killed in Indian Kashmir riots


Fresh protests: An Indian policeman chasing protesters during a protest 
in Gandarbal, 22km east of Srinagar.Picture: Reuters
SRINAGAR, INDIA
Sunday, November 23, 2008
A SECOND DAY of protests against Indian rule shook Kashmir yesterday, 
leaving two Muslim protesters dead and more than 30 hurt, police and 
witnesses said, ahead of more voting in state polls.

Police opened fire to control crowds of stone-throwing demonstrators in 
Baramulla town, about 55km north of summer capital Srinagar, killing a 
teenage student, a police officer said.

The violence came on the eve of the second round of seven-stage state 
elections which wind up in late December.

The demonstrators hurled stones at a cavalcade of an election candidate 
from India's Congress party, prompting police guards to open fire, the 
officer said.

Following the death, angry youths poured onto the streets of Baramulla 
chanting, "We want freedom" as they carried the body of the slain 
student shoulder high.

Police opened fire after the baton charge and teargas proved 
ineffective, killing a second protester, police said.

"The situation in Baramulla town is tense," the officer said, requesting 
not to be named.

Residents said thousands of paramilitary troops were trying to enforce a 
curfew in the town, although authorities say none has been officially 
declared.

Srinagar and other Muslim-dominated towns have been frequently hit by 
strikes, protest rallies and curfews since June when some of the biggest 
anti-India protests erupted in the region that left nearly 50 Muslims 
dead in ensuing security force action.

Authorities have detained over the past six weeks more than two dozen 
prominent separatists who spearheaded the protests and scores of 
activists to prevent demonstrations against elections being held in 
Indian Kashmir.AFP







http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/11/23/kashmir.elections/index.html?eref=rss_latest

November 23, 2008 -- Updated 2140 GMT (0540 HKT)

Protesters, security forces clash during Kashmir elections
• Story Highlights
• Anti-election demonstrators, Indian security forces clash during state 
elections
• Police say they used batons to restore order, and no one was injured
• Authorities: Protests come a day after Indian paramilitary forces 
killed two youths
• Voting was second stage of seven-stage election in Indian-controlled 
Kashmir

 From Muktar Ahmad
CNN

SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir (CNN) -- Anti-election demonstrators 
threw stones at two polling stations and clashed with Indian security 
forces Sunday as voters stood in long lines in Indian-controlled Kashmir 
to cast ballots in the second stage of state elections.

An Indian Border Security Forces soldier watches as voters in 
Indian-controlled Kashmir wait to vote Sunday.

The protesters yelled pro-independence and anti-poll slogans and threw 
stones at polling stations in two villages in the Ganderbal 
constituency, police said.
Police used batons to restore order, but no one was injured, police said.
People demonstrated in two other villages, Duderhama and Beehama in 
Ganderbal constituency -- one of six constituencies voting Sunday in the 
second of seven stages in the state assembly elections.
The elections began after months of violent protests by anti-Indian 
groups, fearful state elections will firm up Indian control of the 
Muslim majority Himalayan state, and by Indian nationalists, fearful 
that separatist groups will gain control.
Kashmir, divided between India and Pakistan and claimed by both, has 
been wracked by an 18-year bloody separatist campaign that authorities 
say has left at least 43,000 dead.
Sunday's protests came a day after Indian paramilitary forces, according 
to authorities, gunned down two youths, one of them a high school 
student apparently taking part in an anti-India demonstration.
Police Saturday fired on protesters in the town of Baramulla, killing 
10th-grader Manzoor Ahmad Kumar, a senior police officer told CNN. 
Hundreds of protesters followed Kumar's body into the "Old Town" area of 
Baramulla, where demonstrators clashed with police.
Protesters threw stones at a candidate's escort vehicles, the office 
said. Indian authorities deployed heavy paramilitary and police 
reinforcements to maintain order.
Six protesters were injured in the fighting, police said.
A police official said paramilitary forces in the Baramulla's Old Town 
area Saturday, shot and killed a second youth, Tanvir Ahmad Sheikh.
Elsewhere Sunday, voting continued without incident. In Kangan 
constituency, voting picked up in the late morning and afternoon, and 
there and in Ganderbal, voters -- including many women -- lined up to 
cast their votes.
Indian poll officials said the turnout was about 65 percent of eligible 
voters.
Heavy security was also deployed in Srinagar, the summer capital of 
Indian-administered Kashmir. Indian paramilitary troopers carried 
automatic weapons and blocked roads with barricades and coils of razor 
wire there and in other towns.

The first phase of elections was held November 17 and the third will be 
held November 30.






http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=64493

Two killed in fresh Kashmir protests
Afp, Srinagar

A second day of protests against Indian rule shook Kashmir Saturday, 
leaving two Muslim protesters dead and over 30 hurt, police and 
witnesses said, ahead of more voting in state polls.

Police opened fire to control crowds of stone-throwing demonstrators in 
Baramulla town, about 55 kilometres (34 miles) north of summer capital 
Srinagar, killing a teenage student, a police officer said.

The violence came on the eve of the second round of seven-stage state 
elections, which wind up in late December.

The demonstrators hurled stones at a cavalcade of an election candidate 
from India's Congress party, prompting police guards to open fire, the 
officer said.

Following the death, angry youths poured onto the streets of Baramulla 
chanting, "We want freedom" as they carried the body of the slain 
student shoulder high.

Police opened fire after the baton charge and teargas proved 
ineffective, killing a second protester, police said.

"The situation in Baramulla town is tense," the officer said, requesting 
not to be named.

Residents said thousands of paramilitary troops were trying to enforce a 
curfew in the town, although authorities say none has been officially 
declared.

Srinagar and other Muslim-dominated towns have been frequently hit by 
strikes, protest rallies and curfews since June when some of the biggest 
anti-India protests erupted in the region that left nearly 50 Muslims 
dead in ensuing security force action.

Authorities have detained over the past six weeks more than two dozen 
prominent separatists who spearheaded the protests and scores of 
activists to prevent demonstrations against elections being held in 
Indian Kashmir.

Groups opposed to Indian rule have called for a voter boycott of the 
polls. However the first round of the seven-stage election saw a nearly 
60 percent turnout.

Many of the voters interviewed by AFP said they still wanted political 
freedom, but had voted to elect a government that would bring economic 
development and good management of the state.








http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2008/11/20081122143822606824.html

Protesters shot in Indian-Kashmir

The Jammu and Kashmir state election is being held in seven stages 
because of security concerns [AFP]

Two people have been shot dead and about 20 others wounded after Indian 
troops opened fire on hundreds of demonstrators protesting against state 
elections in Indian-controlled Kashmir.
Violence flared on Saturday as armed forces grappled with stone-throwing 
demonstrators in north Kashmir's Baramulla town, police and witnesses said.
One of the dead was identified as 16-year-old Manzoor Kumar.
Haroon Ahmad, an eye witness, told Reuters news agency that security 
forces "fired indiscriminately" killing Kumar "on the spot".
Ahmad said protesters shouted "down with elections", "we want freedom" 
and other anti-government slogans as they carried the teenager's body away.
The shootings happened as Indian-administered Kashmir entered the second 
stage of voting in state elections - despite the fact Muslim separatists 
rejected the use of violence before the poll got under way.
Boycott call
"We appeal to the people to stage peaceful protests against the arrest 
of leaders"
Statement issued by an alliance of Muslim separatist leaders
Separatists have urged voters to boycott the poll, saying the election 
lacks legitimacy and will only serve to deepen New Delhi's hold over the 
troubled region.
An alliance of Muslim separatists issued a statement after the clashes 
backing non-violent protests against the Indian authorities.
"We appeal to the people to stage peaceful protests against the holding 
of elections in the presence of 700,000 troops and against the arrest of 
leaders," the Jammu-Kashmir Coordination Committee said.
The poll is being held in seven phases over as many weeks because of 
security concerns.
Staggering the vote has allowed the Indian authorities to intensively 
deploy troops as each area goes to the polls.
Earlier on Friday, 18 people were wounded in clashes between police and 
anti-election protesters in a separate incident also north of the summer 
capital Srinagar.
The vote comes just weeks after some of the worst protests against 
Indian rule in the country's only Muslim state since a fragile peace 
deal was agreed by Pakistan and India in 2004.
Both countries claim sovereignty over, and rule parts of, the divided 
region.
At least 48 people have died in demonstrations during the last few 
weeks, prompting a crackdown on separatist leaders who oppose the polls.
Detentions
More than 30 people who called for a boycott have been detained in 
recent days under legislation that allows police to hold people for up 
to two years without trial.
Police officials confirmed they were being held for advocating 
"secession, breach of the peace and intimidating people not to vote".
Separatists argue that free and fair elections are impossible in the 
presence of what they describe as an occupying force.
Indian election officials were initially encouraged by a 
higher-than-expected turnout overall - although voting in 
Muslim-dominated areas was said to be so low that security officers 
outnumbered voters.
The vote is the third election in the state since the separatist 
insurgency began in 1989, which has claimed the lives of at least 47,000 
people.
Voting finishes in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, December 24, with the 
final count due on Sunday, December 28.
Srinagar will vote in the seventh and final phase.






http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/FullcoverageStoryPage.aspx?sectionName=NLetter&id=5c2d1a26-5314-467a-83e9-be6a74faab74BattleforBallot_Special&Headline=Protesters+clash+with+security+forces+in+Baramulla

Protesters clash with security forces in Baramulla
Press Trust Of India
Srinagar, November 23, 2008
First Published: 19:44 IST(23/11/2008)
Last Updated: 19:47 IST(23/11/2008)
Defying restrictions, protesters took to streets on Sunday in tense 
Baramulla district against the killing of two youths in police firing 
and clashed with security personnel.
"The protesters pelted stones on police and paramilitary forces at half 
a dozen places in the old town, 55 kms from Srinagar, triggering 
clashes," the sources said.
Police and paramilitary forces fired dozens of teargas shells and used 
batons to chase away the protesters, they said adding no one was hurt in 
the clashes.
Manzoor Ahmad Kumar and Tanvir Sheikh were killed and seven others 
injured in firing by security forces after an anti-election protest 
turned violent on Saturday.
Patrolling has been further intensified in the violence-affected areas.






http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/politics/dozen-hurt-in-poll-clashes-amid-heavy-voting-in-jammu-region-lead_100122559.html

Dozen hurt in poll clashes amid heavy voting in Jammu region (Lead)
November 23rd, 2008 - 4:19 pm ICT by IANS -
Jammu, Nov 23 (IANS) A dozen people sustained injuries Sunday when 
clashes broke out between supporters of various political parties and 
independent candidates at 10 polling stations in the Jammu region, where 
voters turned up in large numbers for the second phase of assembly 
elections in Jammu and Kashmir.Polling was disrupted after the clashes 
at 10 polling stations in Darhal, Rajouri and Kalakot constituencies in 
the region’s Rajouri district following clashes between supporters of 
various political parties and independent candidates.
The police had to open fire to disperse stone-pelting groups of 
supporters of the National Conference (NC) and other parties at the 
Badadarhal polling station in the Darhal constituency. District election 
authorities said order had been restored and balloting had begun at the 
polling stations.
Officials said they might have to extend the balloting time to 
accommodate the heavy turnout of voters to ensure everyone gets the 
chance to exercise his franchise.
Four constituencies, Darhal, Rajouri, Kalakote and Nowshera in Rajouri 
district went to the polls Sunday morning with as many as 59 candidates 
in the fray. Two other constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir where 
balloting started are Ganderbal and Kangan in the Kashmir Valley.
Elections for the 87-member state assembly are being held in seven phases.






http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/politics/voting-disrupted-in-rajouri-following-clashes_100122473.html

Voting disrupted in Rajouri following clashes
November 23rd, 2008 - 1:35 pm ICT by IANS -
Jammu, Nov 23 (IANS) Polling was disrupted Sunday at half a dozen 
polling stations in Darhal and Rajouri constituencies in the Jammu 
region following clashes between supporters of various political parties 
and independent candidates.The police had to open fire to disperse 
stone-pelting groups of supporters of the National Conference (NC) and 
other parties at the Badadarhal polling station in the Darhal constituency.
District election authorities said order had been restored and balloting 
would begin shortly here.
Four constituencies, Darhal, Rajouri, Kalakote and Nowshera in Rajouri 
district went to the polls Sunday morning with as many as 59 candidates 
in the fray. Two other constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir where 
balloting started are Ganderbal and Kangan in the Kashmir Valley.
This is the second of the seven-phase assembly elections in the 
strife-torn state.






http://www.thenews.com.pk/top_story_detail.asp?Id=18553

Police kill two protesters in held Kashmir
Sunday, November 23, 2008
HELD SRINAGAR: A second day of protests against the Indian rule shook 
Kashmir on Saturday, leaving two protesters dead and more than 30 hurt, 
police and witnesses said.

Police opened fire to control crowds of stone-throwing demonstrators in 
Baramulla town, about 55 kilometres north of Srinagar, killing a teenage 
student, a police officer said. The violence came on the eve of the 
second round of seven-stage state elections which wind up in late 
December. The demonstrators hurled stones at a cavalcade of an election 
candidate from India’s Congress party, prompting police guards to open 
fire, the officer said. Following the death, angry youths poured onto 
the streets of Baramulla chanting, “We want freedom” as they carried the 
body of the slain student shoulder high.

Police opened fire after the baton charge and teargas proved 
ineffective, killing a second protester, police said.

“The situation in Baramulla town is tense,” the officer said.

Meanwhile, an irate mob on Saturday attacked PDP President Mehbooba 
Mufti’s convoy in Baramulla town of held Kashmir, injuring three of her 
security personnel and damaging three vehicles.

However, the PDP leader escaped unhurt in the attack, quoting official 
sources Zeenews reported.







http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/security-forces-kill-two-protesters-in-kashmir-probe-ordered-lead_100122309.html

Security forces kill two protesters in Kashmir, probe ordered (Lead)
November 22nd, 2008 - 6:05 pm ICT by IANS -
Srinagar, Nov 22 (IANS) Two young men were killed Saturday when police 
and paramilitary troops fired at people protesting against the holding 
of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, officials and witnesses said.The 
deaths sparked off wide demonstrations prompting the government to order 
a probe.
The killings took place in north Kashmir’s Baramulla town, which will 
see voting Dec 7 in the staggered state elections that end Dec 24.
Manzoor Ahmed Kumar, a Class 10 student, died after police guards of 
Congress candidate Mir Mushtaq fired at a stone throwing mob in Khanpora 
area of Baramulla, 55 km from here, the police said.
Kumar died on the spot after being hit in the chest, witnesses told IANS 
on phone.
Tension gripped the town as the protesters carried the body of the slain 
youth and marched towards the curfew-bound old town shouting 
anti-election and anti-India slogans.
The paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) then opened fired 
at the funeral procession injuring four men.
“One of the injured, Tanvir Ahmad Sheikh, died in the security force 
firing and three persons sustained bullet injuries in the old town area 
of Baramulla,” a police officer said.
After anti-election protests in Baramulla town Friday, the authorities 
clamped curfew to quell demonstrations.
An official spokesman said the government has ordered a magisterial 
probe into the firing incidents in Baramulla town.
“The probe will be conducted by the additional district magistrate of 
Baramulla district,” the spokesman said.
Angry protesters engaged security forces in heavy stone pelting in the 
town as high tension gripped the area after the killings.
Clashes between the stone throwing mobs and the security forces in the 
town forced the authorities to call additional troops to bring the 
situation under control.






http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/politics/protests-undeclared-curfew-ahead-of-second-phase-of-polling_100122044.html

Protests, undeclared curfew ahead of second phase of polling
November 21st, 2008 - 9:17 pm ICT by IANS - Send to a friend:
Srinagar, Nov 21 (IANS) Ahead of the second phase of polling, state 
authorities imposed undeclared curfew and enforced strict security 
restrictions to prevent a separatist rally in summer capital Srinagar 
Friday.Early Friday, hundreds of police and paramilitary, Central 
Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers were deployed in Srinagar to 
enforce the restrictions.
This followed a call by the separatist joint coordination committee for 
a march to the historic Jamia mosque in the Nowhatta locality of the old 
city.
The authorities dis-allowed Friday prayers in the mosque which had been 
surrounded by the police and paramilitary reinforcements.
This is for the second time this month that Friday prayers couldn’t be 
offered in the Jamia masjid because of curfew-like restrictions.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman of the moderate separatist Hurriyat 
Conference who continues to be under house arrest condemned the 
imposition of curfew saying: “People’s sentiments have been hurt as they 
couldn’t offer the weekly Friday prayers.”
The Mirwaiz said “Indian sponsored polls are no substitute to freedom.”
Violent protests rocked Srinagar this evening.
Protests also rocked Ganderbal, Baramulla and Sopore towns in north 
Kashmir and south Kashmir town of Anantnag where police and CRPF lobbed 
tear smoke shells and used batons to disperse stone pelters, who were 
shouting anti-poll slogans.
In Ganderbal, where anti-poll protesters attacked an election rally, 
police had to open fire to restore order injuring one person who was 
hospitalized.
Police said ten persons were injured in today’s stone pelting incidents.
Two constituencies of north Kashmir Ganderbal district, where 
campaigning ended this evening go to polls in the second phase of 
assembly elections Sunday.
Authorities have made tight security arrangements for peaceful polling.






http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/DEL403771.htm

Troops patrol Kashmir to thwart anti-poll protests
21 Nov 2008 08:20:52 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Sheikh Mushtaq
SRINAGAR, India, Nov 21 (Reuters) - India deployed thousands of troops 
in Kashmir's main city on Friday and erected barricades in what amounted 
to an undeclared curfew to thwart planned protests against ongoing state 
elections.
Police and soldiers in riot gear patrolled deserted streets, littered 
with dry brown leaves, in Srinagar, the capital of the mainly Muslim 
Kashmir Valley, and warned residents to stay indoors.
"We are sick and tired of this, every second day they impose curfew," 
said 27-year-old bank employee, Tania Khan.
"Life is miserable here."
Life in Srinagar has been frequently disrupted by strikes, 
demonstrations and curfews, especially since some of the biggest 
anti-India protests in years erupted several months ago. At least 42 
people were killed by security forces during those protests.
Separatists had planned more protests on Friday to renew their appeal 
for a boycott of the seven-stage vote.
The authorities, buoyed by a decent turnout in the first round of the 
vote, blocked the move. Many separatist leaders remain in jail or under 
house arrest.
The second phase of polls is due on Sunday, and Srinagar will vote in 
the final phase. It will be the third vote in the state since an 
insurgency began in 1989, killing at least 43,000 people.
"We appeal to people to stage peaceful protests against holding of 
elections in presence of 700,000 troops and against arrest of leaders," 
said a statement of the Jammu-Kashmir Coordination Committee, a new 
alliance of Muslim separatists, business people and lawyers.
Shops, businesses and schools were also closed in other towns across the 
Kashmir Valley.
In the past, separatist guerrillas have attacked and killed scores of 
candidates and political workers, vandalised polling stations and 
attacked rallies to thwart elections.
But early this year, the United Jihad Council, a Pakistan-based militant 
alliance fighting Indian troops in Kashmir, rejected the use of violence 
to enforce a boycott.
Violence has declined significantly after India and Pakistan, which both 
claim the region in full and rule in part, began a slow-moving peace 
process in 2004. (Editing by Simon Denyer and Sanjeev Miglani) (For the 
latest Reuters news on India see in.reuters.com, for blogs see 
blogs.reuters.com/in/)







http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/india-news/women-stage-anti-poll-protest-in-bandipur-district-in-j-k_100120221.html

Women stage anti-poll protest in Bandipur district in J-K
November 17th, 2008 - 8:18 pm ICT by ANI -
Bandipur (J-K), Nov 17 (ANI): Angry women protesters clashed with the 
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel at Bandipora in Jammu and 
Kashmir on Monday amidst the first phase of seven-phased Assembly polls.
Witnesses said that men, women and children assembled outside the 
polling booths in the town and tried to stage pro-freedom demonstrations.
The CRPF personnel resorted to baton charge and scuffled with 
demonstrators to disperse them. Protesters offered stiff resistance and 
in the police action and mob retaliation at least three persons 
sustained injuries.
The Coordination Committee representing separatists had asked people to 
observe complete shutdown and march to Bandipur on Monday as a mark of 
protest against elections, which it describes as a ploy by the Indian 
government to obscure main issue of Kashmir.
The Kashmir valley remains the focus of the vote after police killed at 
least 42 people this year during pro-independence protests.
Ten constituencies in four districts including two in Bandipur district 
went to polls on Monday. As many as, 102 candidates are in the fray in 
these constituencies. These include three women contestants also.
During the Assembly elections 2002, only 40 candidates were in the fray 
in these constituencies, which indicates greater involvement of 
candidates in poll process this time.
The Indian government is hoping for a decent turnout to bolster the 
legitimacy of democracy and its rule in Kashmir. (ANI)







http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/11/06/asia/AS-Kashmir-Protest.php

Troops patrol to halt separatist rally in Kashmir

The Associated Press
Published: November 6, 2008

SRINAGAR, India: Thousands of troops in riot gear patrolled the main 
city in India's portion of Kashmir to block a pro-independence rally 
Thursday, and authorities warned residents to stay home.
Separatists called for a protest at Jamia Masjid, the main mosque in 
Srinagar, to honor tens of thousands of Muslims they say were killed in 
riots with Hindus on Nov. 6, 1947, in Jammu, the only Hindu-majority 
city in India's Jammu-Kashmir state.
B. Srinivas, a senior police officer, said the government had banned any 
public assembly of more than five people but that no curfew had been 
imposed. Troops erected steel barricades and laid razor wire on roads to 
prevent a public gathering.
"We're imposing restrictions to avoid clashes," he said.
Police and paramilitary soldiers drove through neighborhoods in the old 
parts of Srinagar warning people to stay indoors, said Bashir Ahmed, an 
area resident. He said some police called it a curfew.
"They are not allowing any movement," Ahmed said.
Most residents stayed home, and shops, businesses and government offices 
were shuttered across the city.
Mirwaiz Omer Farooq, a key separatist leader who was to lead the rally, 
was placed under house arrest, a police officer said on condition of 
anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media.
Farooq confirmed his detention and also said Kashmiris would reject 
local elections scheduled to take place later this month.
"No free and fair election can be held under military occupation and 
thus this election is a futile exercise," he said by telephone. "We're 
demanding a resolution of the Kashmir dispute and the election can't be 
a substitute for a plebiscite."
The elections are to start Nov. 17 and will be held in seven phases 
running through Dec. 24.
Farooq urged people to hold "rallies for freedom" in districts where 
voting is scheduled.
Authorities have arrested at least 30 separatist leaders and activists 
who have been campaigning against the polls. Many were detained under 
the Public Safety Act, which allows police to hold people for up to two 
years without trial. Human rights activists condemn the law as draconian.
Anti-India sentiment runs deep in Kashmir, where most people favor 
independence from India or a merger with Pakistan. Kashmir is divided 
between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, and both claim the region in 
its entirety and have fought two wars over it.
Militant separatist groups have fought since 1989 to end Indian rule in 
the Himalayan region. Some 68,000 people, mostly civilians, have been 
killed.
In recent months Kashmir has experienced some of the largest protests 
against Indian rule in two decades. At least 48 people have died, most 
killed when Indian soldiers opened fire on Muslim demonstrators.





http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/11/07/asia/AS-Kashmir-Protest.php

Soldiers block protest in Indian Kashmir

The Associated Press
Published: November 7, 2008

SRINAGAR, India: Government forces fired tear gas and swung batons to 
disperse scores of rock-throwing protesters who broke through security 
cordons to hold pro-independence demonstrations in the Indian portion of 
Kashmir on Friday.
There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Thousands of troops in riot gear prevented people from reaching Jamia 
Masjid, the main mosque in the disputed region's largest city, Srinagar, 
where separatist leaders planned a rally after Friday's noon prayers, 
area residents said.
The demonstration was to honor tens of thousands of Muslims who were 
killed in clashes with Hindus on Nov. 6, 1947, within months of India 
and Pakistan gaining independence from Britain.
Only small groups of protesters took to the streets at two places in 
Srinagar, the summer capital of India's Jammu-Kashmir state, a police 
officer said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to 
speak to reporters.
"Soldiers are patrolling everywhere and are telling us to stay indoors 
as curfew has been imposed in the city," said Shakeel Ahmed, a Srinagar 
resident.
Officials said the government has banned any public assembly of more 
than five people.
"There is no curfew, but yes, restrictions have been imposed to avoid 
any law and order situation," said B. Srinivas, a senior police officer.
Separatist leaders Maulvi Abbas Ansari, Sajjad Gani Lone, Bilal Gani 
Lone and the High Court Bar Association president, Mian Abdul Qayoom, 
were placed under house arrest to prevent them from participating in the 
protests, said the police officer who did not want to be named.
On Thursday, government forces foiled planned street protests by 
erecting steel barricades and laying razor wire on roads. Most residents 
stayed home, and shops, businesses and government offices were shuttered.
Mirwaiz Omer Farooq, a key separatist leader now under house arrest, 
urged people to boycott local elections announced by the Indian 
government. Voting starts Nov. 17 and will be held in seven phases 
running through Dec. 24.
"India has again stopped our peaceful rally by sheer military might. But 
let India read the writing on the wall that whatever it does, we'll 
never give up our fight against its occupation," Farooq said in a 
telephone interview from his home.
Authorities have arrested at least 30 separatist leaders for campaigning 
against the polls, many of them under a tough law that allows police to 
detain people for up to two years without trial. Human rights activists 
condemn the law as draconian.
In recent months, Kashmir has seen some of the largest protests against 
Indian rule in two decades. At least 48 people have died, most killed 
when Indian soldiers opened fire on Muslim demonstrators.
Anti-India sentiment runs deep in Kashmir, where most people favor 
independence from India or a merger with Pakistan. Kashmir is divided 
between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, who both claim the Himalayan 
region in its entirety and have fought two wars over it.
Militant separatist groups have been fighting since 1989 to end Indian 
rule. More than 68,000 people, most of them civilians, have been killed 
in the uprising and subsequent Indian crackdown.




http://www.hindu.com/2008/11/02/stories/2008110255571000.htm

Yasin Malik booked under PSA; protests in Srinagar
Shujaat Bukhari

Yasin Malik
SRINAGAR: Protests rocked Maisuma locality in Srinagar on Saturday after 
the news about government slapping Public Safety Act (PSA) on Jammu and 
Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chairman Yasin Malik spread in the area.
A group of youth took to streets shouting pro-freedom and anti-India 
slogans forcing the shopkeepers to down their shutters. As police 
reached the spot the youth pelted stones and police used tear smoke 
shells to disperse them. The pitched battle continued for sometime . The 
youth were protesting against government decision to book Mr. Malik 
under PSA.
Though officials were tightlipped over the issue, sources confirmed that 
Mr. Malik has been booked for two years under the Act. He has been 
shifted to District Jail Jammu.
Mr. Malik was shifted to hospital on Friday for a medical check-up but 
the authorities later decided to book and send him outside Kashmir. 
Jamiat-e-Ahlahadees chief Showkat shah has also been admitted to 
Intensive Care Unit of S K Institute of Medical Sciences here. Both were 
arrested last month during the anti-election campaign in Hajin area and 
lodged in Sumbal Police Station.
Sources said that Ghulam Nabi Sumji, member of Geelani led Hurriyat 
Conference has also been booked under PSA for two years and is being 
sent to Jammu jail.
Crackdown continues
The government is continuing its crackdown on separatist leaders in view 
of their anti-election campaign. Top leaders Shabir Shah, Ashraf Sehrai, 
Naeem Khan are already in jail along with scores of middle rung leaders. 
This is for the third time in last over a month, that Geelani’s Hurriyat 
had to appoint an acting chairman.
Earlier Sumji was the acting chairman in absence of Geelani but after he 
was arrested Nissar Hussain Rather was appointed in his place. But he 
was also arrested two days back and now Sheikh Ali Mohammad is the new 
chairman.
The separatist camp is virtually leaderless as Mirwaiz Umar Farooq is 
not allowed to lead the major protest programmes and Mr. Geelani is 
under treatment in Delhi.






http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/kashmir-arrests-under-new-law-triggers-rioting-14029421.html

Kashmir arrests under new law triggers rioting
Monday, 3 November 2008

Police have arrested three key separatist leaders in Indian Kashmir 
under a tough security law that allows detention for up to two years 
without trial.
The arrests triggered weekend clashes with hundreds of Muslim 
protesters, with police and paramilitary soldiers firing tear gas and 
swinging batons to disperse the rock-throwing mob. There were no 
immediate reports of injuries.
The separatist leaders were arrested for opposing elections due to start 
later this month to choose a new government in the Indian-administered 
region, a police officer said.
The separatists oppose Indian rule in the Muslim-majority region.
They were arrested under the Public Safety Act, which allows police to 
detain people for up to two years without trial. Human rights activists 
condemn the law as draconian.
Police had held the separatist leaders under house arrest for several 
weeks following earlier protests against Indian rule.
As news of the separatist leaders’ arrests spread in Srinagar, the 
region’s largest city, hundreds of Kashmiris took to the streets 
chanting “We want freedom” and “Release our leaders”.
“An anti-election campaign is a democratic right and our arrest yet 
again proves as sham the tall claims of India’s democracy,” Mr Malik 
told reporters as he was being taken to prison. In recent months, the 
Himalayan region has seen some of its largest protests against Indian 
rule in two decades. At least 48 people have died in the unrest, most of 
them killed when Indian soldiers opened fire on Muslim demonstrators.






http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Protest_against_separatists_arrest_turns_violent_in_Srinagar/rssarticleshow/3665230.cms

Protest against separatists arrest turns violent in Srinagar
2 Nov 2008, 1538 hrs IST, PTI

SRINAGAR: Tension gripped parts of interior city as groups of youth took 
to streets to protest against the arrest of separatist leaders and
indulged in stone-pelting on Sunday, prompting security forces to fire 
teargas shells and use batons to restore order, official sources said.

Shouting "pro-freedom" slogans, angry mobs appeared at Saraf Kadal, 
Rajouri Kadal, Nowhatta, Bohrikadal and adjoining areas in the close 
vicinity of historic Jamia Masjid in downtown Srinagar and pelted stones 
on police and paramilitary personnel, the sources said.

They said police acted swiftly and initially used batons to disperse the 
swelling crowds. As the baton charge proved ineffective, police fired 
teargas shells to restore law and order, the sources added.

At least 50 persons including 29 security personnel were injured in 
violent clashes on Friday in the sensitive localities, considered as the 
strong hold of chairman of the moderate faction of Hurriyat Conference 
Mirwaiz Umer Farooq.

The latest clashes forced the local shopkeepers to pull down the 
shutters, while the traffic was diverted to other routes, the sources said.

Authorities on Saturday slapped the Public Safety Act on JKLF leader 
Mohammad Yasin Malik, arrested on October 23 for taking part in the 
separatists anti-poll campaign.

Besides Malik, over a dozen prominent separatist leaders including 
Shabir Shah, G N Sumji, Nayeem Khan, Nissar Rather, Asiya Indrabi, 
Hakeem Abdul Rashid, G M Hubi, G M Khan Sopori and Moulvi Shoukat Ahmad 
Shah have been arrested in recent weeks following the announcement of 
elections in the state.






http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/PoliticsNation/17_injured_in_Srinagar_protests/articleshow/3648178.cms

17 injured in Srinagar protests
28 Oct 2008, 0519 hrs IST, Masood Hussain, ET Bureau

SRINAGAR: Police personnel and paramilitary forces enforced an informal 
curfew on Monday morning in Srinagar to thwart separatists’ human-chain 
protest plan. Moderate cleric Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, supposed to attend 
the protest, was kept under house arrest as security men blocked almost 
every lane and road in the city.

Though the anniversary of Indian Army’s arrival here has remained a 
strike day in separatists’ calendar since militancy broke out in 1988, 
this was for the first time that severe restrictions were imposed by the 
government.

A couple of lawyers made a bid to come out from the deserted court 
premises in Lal Chowk but were immediately detained. Kashmir Bar 
Association that had floated the human chain idea for Monday has said it 
would meet soon fix another date for this protest.

While the day was by and large peaceful, pitched battles were reported 
between police and protesting mobs in north Kashmir Baramulla and Sopore 
towns besides Safakadal and Batamaloo localities in which not less than 
17 persons including some cops were reported injured.

“There is no curfew,” a senior police officer told ET. “People are 
actually observing the strike.”







http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/world/archives/2008/10/28/2003427166

Protests against Indian rule close offices in Kashmir

AP, SRINAGAR, INDIA
Tuesday, Oct 28, 2008, Page 5
Shops, businesses and government offices closed across 
Indian-administered Kashmir yesterday as separatists called a general 
strike to mark the anniversary of the day Indian troops took control of 
the region in 1947, celebrated by India as Infantry day.
Thousands of Indian soldiers in riot gear patrolled the streets of 
Srinagar, the main city, and prohibited any gathering of more than five 
people, said police officer B. Srinivas said.

The ban was aimed at blocking a plan by Kashmiri lawyers to form a human 
chain to protest the presence of Indian troops in the region.

“It’s an irony that even forming a human chain is a threat to the Indian 
state,” said Mirwaiz Omer Farooq, a key separatist leader.

“This was supposed to be a symbolic protest reminding the world that 
India has militarily occupied this place,” he said.

In recent months, Indian Kashmir has seen some of the largest protests 
against Indian rule in two decades.

At least 48 people have died, most of them killed when Indian soldiers 
opened fire on Muslim demonstrators.

India says it sent troops to the region in 1947 at the request of 
Kashmir’s Hindu king, who decided to join India when the subcontinent 
was partitioned by British colonialists into India and Pakistan.

However, separatists say the Hindu king decided to join India only after 
Indian troops had landed in the region.

Yesterday’s strike was called by the Jammu-Kashmir Coordination 
Committee, a coalition of Kashmir’s Muslim separatist leaders and 
representatives of businesses, lawyers and government employees.

The protesters demand that Muslim-majority Kashmir either gain 
independence from India or merge with Pakistan.

Anti-India sentiment runs deep in the territory, which remains divided 
between India and Pakistan.

The longtime rivals both claim the region and have fought two wars over it.

Meanwhile, Indian troops shot dead five Islamic militants during a gun 
battle in the forests of Kishtiwar district, south of Srinagar, a 
statement from the army said.

“The five were members of Hizbul Mujahidin,” it said, referring to the 
region’s most powerful group fighting for Indian Kashmir to join with 
Pakistan.








http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/oct/27jk.htm

Valley turns fortress amid planned protests

Mukhtar Ahmad In Srinagar | October 27, 2008 11:41 IST
Last Updated: October 27, 2008 20:25 IST
An undeclared curfew was clamped in the entire summer capital Srinagar 
[Images] to scuttle separatist protests in Srinagar on Monday.
Indefinite curfew continues to remain in force in the north Kashmir's 
Baramulla town since Sunday, where a youth was killed and 20 others 
wounded in day long clashes and paramilitary, Central Reserve Police 
Force firing.
Angry youths, however, defied curfew restrictions in the town on Monday 
morning and engaged the police and CRPF troops in pitched battles till 
afternoon.
The security forces fired volleys of tear gas shells and resorted to 
repeated baton charges to disperse the angry violators and bring the 
situation under control.
The town continues to be tense, and authorities have decided not to 
relax the curfew today.
The separatist coordination committee comprising of representatives of 
both groups of All Parties Hurriyat Conference, local traders and 
lawyers had called for a Valley wide general strike on Monday to 
coincide with the landing of the first batch of Indian troops this day 
in 1947.
The separatists and the local bar association had decided to form a 
human chain between the lower court premises and high court building 
nearly a km apart.
The moderate APHC chairman, Mirwaiz Moulvi Umar Farooq had announced to 
lead the today's protests and asked women to form another from chain 
from uptown Dalgate locality to the United Nations Military Observers 
Group office in Srinagar.
The state authorities, however, decided to enforce strict security 
restrictions disallowing any movement in the city.
The restrictions were in place as the people woke up in the morning and 
tried to move out.
Heavy paramilitary CRPF and police deployments had been made across the 
city restricting the movement of the locals.
The city is deserted as were other valley towns. However, the day passed 
off peacefully, according to a senior police officer. Mirwaiz and other 
separatist leaders were placed under house arrest by the authorities.






http://www.telegraphindia.com/1081027/jsp/nation/story_10024956.jsp

Protester shot, curfew in Valley
OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
Srinagar, Oct. 26: Curfew was clamped in Baramulla today after a 
protester was killed in firing by security forces, the first such death 
after last week’s poll announcement.
The victim, Irfan Ahmad, was part of a demonstration against a string of 
arrests of youths in the north Kashmir town over the past several days. 
Such arrests, part of the state government’s plan to foil pro-freedom 
demonstrations, have become common recently.
The police said the curfew was imposed to prevent untoward incidents and 
to protect the life and property of people.
It wasn’t clear if the police or the CRPF, both of whom tried to 
disperse the mobs, fired the bullet that hit Irfan, killing him on the 
spot and injuring two other protesters. The demonstrators were demanding 
the release of youths picked up in the spate of preventive arrests.
The trouble began when some of the youths pelted the security forces 
with stones, prompting the personnel to use teargas and wield batons. 
The officers claimed they opened fire when the skirmishes didn’t stop.
Security forces fear more protests ahead of the November 17-December 24 
elections. One is planned tomorrow, when the Hurriyat-led coordination 
committee has called for forming a human chain from high court to lower 
court complex in Srinagar to protest the landing of the Indian troops in 
Kashmir 61 years ago.
The human chain protest is part of a campaign by separatists that has 
included the Lal Chowk marches, thwarted by the security forces several 
times in the past.
The Hurriyat Conference, which has lined up tomorrow’s protest along 
with the Bar Association, has appealed people to participate. “Over the 
past six decades, India has used force to crush our struggle but nothing 
can prevent us from achieving our goal of right to self-determination,” 
Hurriyat leader Abbas Ansari said.






http://specials.rediff.com/news/2008/oct/27video1.htm

Troops clash with Kashmiri protesters
October 27, 2008

Curfew has been imposed in Srinagar as a precautionary measure to 
prevent proposed demonstrations by the separatists against the landing 
of Indian troops in Kashmir valley on October 27, 61 years ago.
Shops, business establishments, offices and schools remained closed in 
response to the shutdown called by the Coordination Committee set up by 
the separatist outfits.
Troops have been deployed in large numbers to prevent any untoward incident.






http://www.keralanext.com/news/2008/10/27/article145.asp

Curfew-like situation in Kashmir ahead of separatists' protest
27 Oct 2008, 2109 hrs IST

SRINAGAR: A curfew-like situation prevailed in the Kashmir Valley on 
Monday as troops were deployed in strength to thwart a planned protest 
by separatists who also gave a strike call forcing closure of business 
establishments, offices and educational institutions.

The restrictions were imposed by the authorities as the separatist 
coordination committee had announced that it would form a human chain 
from Saddar court complex in Lal Chowk to High Court complex to protest 
the landing of Indian troops in the state on October 27, 1947.

All roads leading to Lal Chowk were sealed and even government officials 
who were heading to their workplaces were stopped for thorough frisking.

All shops, business establishments, offices, schools and other 
educational institutions remained closed on account of the strike called 
by the committee in the midst of stringent security measures.

Residents of the city and elsewhere in the valley were not allowed to 
come out of their homes by police and paramilitary forces.

However, Superintendent of Police, Control Room, Showkat Malik said no 
curfew had been imposed except for Baramulla town where one person was 
killed and eight other injured in security forces firing yesterday.

He said security had been beefed up in the city to prevent any law and 
order problem.

Even media personnel were not allowed to move freely as some CRPF and 
police officers claimed that curfew had been imposed in the city.

Authorities here have imposed curfew three times in as many months to 
thwart separatists' plans to hold protest rallies.






http://www.breakingnews.ie/world/mhidmhojeysn/rss2/

Protester killed in Kashmir protest
26/10/2008 - 15:15:08
Government troops in Indian Kashmir opened fire today on hundreds of 
angry protesters demanding the release of several people arrested during 
a recent strike, killing one and wounding at least three others, a 
police official said.

The Muslim protesters in Baramullah town, 35 miles north of Srinagar, 
the main city in India’s Jammu-Kashmir state, threw stones and clashed 
with police and paramilitary soldiers, who responded first with bamboo 
truncheons and tear gas and then with live ammunition, said Abdul Gani 
Mir, the area’s deputy inspector general.

On Friday, a general strike was organised by the Jammu-Kashmir 
Co-ordination Committee, a coalition of Muslim separatists and local 
business leaders, during which local residents said at least 10 people 
were arrested by police.






http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/10/26/world/main4546005.shtml?source=RSSattr=World_4546005

Troops Fire On Kashmir Protesters, 1 Dead
Separatists Chant Pro-Freedom Slogans As They Clash With Soldiers In 
India-Controlled State
Comments 2
SRINAGAR, India, Oct. 26, 2008

Kashmiri civilians take an injured man, Manzoor Ahamed, for treatment at 
a hospital in Srinagar, India, Oct. 26, 2008. Government troops in 
Indian Kashmir opened fire Sunday on hundreds of angry protesters 
demanding the release of several people arrested during a recent strike, 
killing one and wounding at least three others. (AP Photo/Mukhtar Khan)

(AP) Government troops in Indian Kashmir opened fire Sunday on hundreds 
of angry protesters demanding the release of several people arrested 
during a recent strike, killing one and wounding at least three others, 
a police official said.

The Muslim protesters in Baramullah town, 35 miles north of Srinagar, 
the main city in India's Jammu-Kashmir state, threw stones and clashed 
with police and paramilitary soldiers, who responded first with bamboo 
truncheons and tear gas and then with live ammunition, said Abdul Gani 
Mir, the area's deputy inspector general.

The protesters chanted pro-freedom slogans as they clashed with the 
troops, Mir said.

Police will investigate the death and injuries, he said.

On Friday, a general strike was organized by the Jammu-Kashmir 
Coordination Committee, a coalition of Muslim separatists and local 
business leaders, during which local residents said at least 10 people 
were arrested by police.

Mir said police arrested only four people.

Anti-India sentiment runs deep in Kashmir, where most people favor 
independence from mainly Hindu India or a merger with predominantly 
Muslim Pakistan.

At least 45 people have died in unrest since August, most of them killed 
when Indian soldiers opened fire on Muslim demonstrators.

Kashmir is divided between India and Pakistan, which both claim the 
region and have fought two wars over it.

Militant separatist groups have been fighting since 1989 to end Indian 
rule. The uprising and subsequent Indian crackdown have killed about 
68,000 people, most of them civilians.






http://www.newkerala.com/topstory-fullnews-36611.html

Protesters clash with police in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 25 : Protesters clashed with police in Jammu and Kashmir 
disrupting normal life in the region during the early morning hours on 
Saturday.
They took to the street and started raising slogans against the police 
and blocked the highway resulting in traffic jams.

They demanded that the police should release those taken into custody 
after Friday's protests.

'Last evening, they took into custody a few people. Today, they have 
resorted to baton charge. These people are protesting against the same. 
Police had to resort to firing tear gas shells also. Some protesters 
have got injured. I don't even know whether I would get any vehicle to 
move out of this place or not. Security personnel are also here now,' 
said Wilayat Hussain, a resident.
--- ANI






http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2008-10/2008-10-24-voa19.cfm?CFID=94267187&CFTOKEN=96772820&jsessionid=de30c499ea9bbdc8803a4979263370481340

Police and Protesters Clash in Indian Kashmir
By VOA News
24 October 2008

Policemen chase away Kashmiri protesters during protest against Indian 
rule in Kashmir, in Srinagar, India, 24 Oct 2008
Police and protesters clashed Friday in Indian-administered Kashmir as 
separatist groups carried out a day-long strike against Indian rule. 
More than 40 people are reported to have been injured.

Shops, businesses and schools were closed in the region. Separatists say 
the strike - which coincided with United Nations Day - was to mark the 
adoption of a U.N. resolution calling for a referendum to determine 
whether Kashmir should be part of India or Pakistan.

Pro-separatist protests have grown in recent months, but have been 
largely contained by Indian security forces.

India plans to hold multi-stage local elections in Kashmir beginning in 
November.

Earlier this week, Indian authorities arrested two separatist leaders 
who had called for a boycott of the vote.

About 70,000 people, mostly civilians, have died in Indian-administered 
Kashmir since a separatist insurgency began in 1989.

Kashmir is divided between India and Pakistan. Two of the three wars the 
two countries have fought have been over the disputed territory.





http://www.chinapost.com.tw/asia/india/2008/10/18/179239/Kashmir-protesters.htm

October 18, 2008 11:33 am TWN, Reuters
Kashmir protesters and police clash, 20 hurt
SRINAGAR, India -- At least 20 people, including six policemen, were 
wounded in Kashmir’s main city on Friday when Indian police clashed with 
hundreds of demonstrators in fresh protests against Indian rule, police 
and witnesses said.
Police used tear gas and batons to disperse hundreds of stone-throwing 
demonstrators shouting “We want freedom,” and “La ilaha illalah” (There 
is no god, but Allah) in several parts of Srinagar, Kashmir’s summer 
capital. The disputed Himalayan region has seen some of the biggest 
pro-independence demonstrations in the past two months since a 
separatist revolt against Indian rule erupted in 1989.
At least 42 people have been killed by government forces and at least 
1,000 wounded.
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh made a two-day visit to Kashmir 
last week, when he expressed sadness over the deaths of protesters and 
offered fresh dialogue with the separatists to end the violence.
Officials say more than 43,000 people have been killed in Kashmir in 
nearly two decades of violence between Indian troops and Muslim 
militants. Human rights groups put the toll at 60,000.
The Jammu-Kashmir Coordination Committee, a new alliance of Muslim 
separatists and representatives of businesses and lawyers, called for 
the protests after Friday prayers.
“I appeal to people not to indulge in violence, and protest against 
Indian occupation peacefully,” said Yasin Malik, a senior separatist 
leader who led a peaceful march in the heart of Srinagar.
The latest round of protests, which have become an embarrassment for New 
Delhi, come at a time when violence involving Indian troops and 
separatist guerrillas has declined significantly after India and 
Pakistan, which both claim the region, began a slow-moving peace process 
in 2004.
On Thursday, a group of 19 businessmen from Pakistani Kashmir returned 
home after a week-long trip to the Indian side to discuss boosting trade 
across the frontline, parts of efforts to find a solution to the dispute.





http://feeds.bignewsnetwork.com/index.php?sid=419632

Dozens injured as protesters clash with police in Srinagar
________________________________________

IANS Friday 17th October, 2008
Protesters clashed with police and paramilitary troopers after offering 
Friday prayers resulting in injuries to at least two dozen people in 
this summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, police said.

After the prayers, the protesters gathered in the old city's Nowhatta 
area and the uptown Maisuma locality, pelting stones on police and 
paramilitary forces deployed there.

"Police used batons and tear smoke shells to disperse the irate 
protesters in Nowhatta and Maisuma areas who resorted to heavy stone 
pelting on the deployed security men," a senior police officer told IANS.

Reports said at least two dozen protesters and security men were injured 
in the clashes.

A cameraman working for a private television channel was also injured in 
the stone pelting.

The joint co-ordination committee of the two separatist Hurriyat groups 
had called upon the people to hold peaceful protests after the Friday 
prayers here as part of the "separatist resistance programme".






http://www.newkerala.com/topstory-fullnews-34009.html

Separatists protest against government in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 17 : At least 20 people, including six policemen, were 
wounded in Srinagar, when police clashed with hundreds of separatist 
protesting against the Government on Friday.
The Jammu-Kashmir Coordination Committee, a new alliance of Muslim 
separatists and representatives of businessmen and lawyers, called for 
the protests after Friday prayers.

"I have collectively appealed to the Kashmiri's that they should not 
sell their land either to the Government or to fellow Kashmiris for 
business purpose. Because if we do not want to be economically dependent 
then we have to create our own resources and land is important for that, 
" said Yasin Malik, separatist leader who led the march in the heart of 
Srinagar.

Police used teargas and batons to disperse hundreds of stone-pelting 
demonstrators shouting, "We want freedom," and "La ilaha illalah" (There 
is no god, but Allah) in several parts of Srinagar.

The latest round of protests comes at a time when violence involving 
Indian troops and separatist guerrillas has declined significantly after 
India and Pakistan began a slow-moving peace process in 2004.

On Thursday, a group of 19 businessmen from Pakistan occupied Kashmir 
(PoK) returned home after a weeklong trip to Jammu and Kashmir to 
discuss better trade across the border.

India and Pakistan have agreed to start bilateral trade across the Line 
of Control from October 21.

Last week, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh made a two-day visit to 
Kashmir when he expressed sadness over the deaths of protesters and 
offered fresh dialogue with the separatists to end the violence.
--- ANI







http://www2.irna.ir/en/news/view/menu-234/0810149723164510.htm

Kashmiris to hold protests during UN chiefs Delhi visit
Srinagar, Oct 14, IRNA
India-UN-Protests
The Kashmir Coordination Committee (KCC) spearheading the current 
movement in Kashmir, announced a sit-in at New Delhi on the occasion of 
UN Secretary General's proposed India visit.
The KCC, an amalgam of various civil society groups backed by the 
Hurriyat Conference Monday announced the decision after its special 
session here called to chart out a month-long program. It also called 
for on lawyer community here to form a human chain during a total shut 
down on October 27, the day India landed its troops in Kashmir in 1948.
The KCC which met under the chairmanship of Muhammad Yaseen Malik, 
leader of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) also called for 
peaceful protest demonstrations after Friday prayers every week.
"October 27 will be observed as Black Day throughout the state, and a 
total shut down will be held on that day," Malik said while briefing the 
news men after the meeting.
Malik said that human chains would be formed from the high court to the 
lower court on that day, and similar protests would be held at all 
district headquarters.
Malik said that a 300-member team, under the aegis of the KCC, would 
leave for Delhi on the India visit of UN secretary general, Ban Ki-moon, 
and hold a sit-in to press on the world body to grant Kashmiris the 
right to decide their own future in accordance with UN resolutions.
He said that a condolence rally would be held in the Srinagar Jamia 
Masjid on November 6 to pay tribute to the martyrs of Jammu.
Nearly three hundred thousand Muslims were massacred in Jammu during the 
mayhem that followed an uprising against autocratic rule of Maharaja in 
1947 weeks before his signing of controversial instrument of accession 
with New Delhi.
According to Malik, the Bar Association would hold a seminar in October 
to which intellectuals from India would be invited.
Today's KCC meeting was attended by the Hurriyat Conference, Bar 
Association, Dukhtaran-e-Millat, the Chamber of Commerce & Industries, 
Traders Federation, representatives from transporters, hoteliers and 
government employees associations.






http://www.javno.com/en-world/twenty-five-hurt-in-new-clashes-in-indian-kashmir_191571

Twenty Five Hurt In New Clashes In Indian Kashmir
The clashes between Indian police and stone-throwing protesters spread 
to several parts of Srinagar, Kashmir`s summer capital.

Published: October 12, 2008 15:53h
At least 25 people were hurt on Sunday when police in Indian Kashmir 
fired bullets and teargas to disperse hundreds of demonstrators mourning 
the death of protesters killed by government forces, police said.
The clashes between Indian police and stone-throwing protesters spread 
to several parts of Srinagar, Kashmir's summer capital, and north of the 
region and continued until Sunday evening.
The disputed Himalayan region has in the past two months witnessed some 
of the biggest pro-independence demonstrations since a separatist revolt 
against Indian rule in 1989.
More than 40 people have been killed by security forces and more than 
1,000 hurt.
At least two people were killed and 75 injured on Friday when security 
forces fired to quell thousands protesting against the Indian prime 
minister's visit to the region for the inauguration of a power project 
and the Kashmir valley's first train link.
The government has banned public gatherings for a month.
Thousands of soldiers and police in riot gear patrol Srinagar's streets, 
residents said.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, during his two-day visit to Kashmir, 
offered dialogue with the separatists to end the violence and expressed 
sadness over the deaths of protesters.
The latest round of protests come at a time when violence involving 
Indian troops and separatist guerrillas has declined significantly after 
India and Pakistan, which both claim the region, began a slow-moving 
peace process in 2004.
But people are still killed in almost daily shootouts.
Indian soldiers have shot dead six militants in separate gun battles 
across Kashmir since Saturday evening, police said.





http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_10-injured-in-srinagar-clashes_1197367

10 injured in Srinagar clashes
IANS
Sunday, October 12, 2008 16:03 IST

SRINAGAR: Curfew like restrictions were re-imposed on unday in parts of 
the old city here following fresh clashes between security forces and 
protesters that left ten people injured.
Angry youths shouting pro-freedom and anti-India slogans took to the 
streets in old city areas of Nowhatta, Gojiwara, Rajouri Kadal, Bohri 
Kadal, Naid Kadal, Fateh Kadal, Khankahi Maulla, Kaw Mohalla, and 
Rainawari Sunday morning. They pelted stones at the police and Central 
Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers.
Security forces fired tear gas shells and baton-charged initially, but 
later opened fire to disperse the mob at Khankahi Maulla.
"One person received bullet injury and was taken to hospital," a police 
official said.
As the mob swelled, authorities who had lifted the curfew Sunday morning 
from the entire old city, moved in CRPF re-inforcements to control the 
situation.
But as the clashes intensified, the administration decided to impose 
curfew-like restrictions in the old city areas falling under the 
jurisdiction of Nowhatta and Khanyar police stations.
"The troops have blocked lanes and by-lanes in our area using razor 
fitted wires. They are not allowing any movement," said Muhammad Ayub, a 
resident of Bohri Kadal.
Police sources here said ten people, including two CRPF troopers, were 
injured in Sunday's clashes in the old city.
A report from north Kashmir's Baramulla town, 55 kms from here, said 
protesters clashed with police again Sunday.
The clashes erupted after Saturday's arrest of some youths by the police 
in the town.
The police personnel responded with a baton charge.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who inaugurated the first Kashmir train 
on Saturday, had offered to hold talks with all sections of the society.
He said: "The recent incidents in the state show that there is some 
resentment towards the government among a section of the youth here on 
certain issues. It has always been our belief that even the most 
difficult issues can be resolved through dialogue. We started a series 
of round table conferences and the government will welcome dialogue with 
all sections of people."





http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_violent-clashes-rock-srinagar_1197249

Violent clashes rock Srinagar
IANS
Saturday, October 11, 2008 19:26 IST


SRINAGAR: Violent clashes between stone pelting mobs and security forces 
rocked this summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, the day 
when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh flagged off the first ever train in 
the troubled valley.
Intermittent clashes were reported from uptown Maisuma here even as 
authorities enforced curfew in three police station areas of the old city.
"Stone pelting mobs engaged the police and the paramilitary Central 
Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Maisuma," a police officer said.
"We are handling the situation with restraint to avoid any civilian 
casualty in the area. Batons and tear smoke shells were used to disperse 
the mobs," the police officer said.
In the old city Nowhatta area two protesters were killed in police and 
CRPF firing as an unruly mob resorted to heavy stone pelting on the 
security forces there on Friday.
Over a dozen protesters and security men were injured in the Maisuma 
clashes on Saturday.
As a precautionary measure, the authorities imposed curfew in SR Gunj, 
Nowhatta and Safa Kadal police station areas.
In at least two other police station areas of Khanyar and Rainawari also 
the authorities enforced restrictions on movement of people and traffic 
to thwart violence.
Separatist leaders had called for a complete shutdown Saturday to 
protest the prime minister's visit to the valley.
Businesses, educational institutions and banks remained closed here and 
attendance in government offices ran very thin because of 
non-availability of public transport.
The University of Kashmir had cancelled all its exams scheduled to be 
held on Saturday.







http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/PoliticsNation/Civil_curfew_in_Kashmir_to_protest_Manmohan_Singhs_visit/articleshow/3584136.cms

Civil curfew in Kashmir to protest Manmohan Singh's visit
11 Oct 2008, 1605 hrs IST, AGENCIES

SRINAGAR: Residents of Kashmir Valley on Saturday observed a "civil 
curfew" to protest Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's visit and the use 
of force on peaceful demonstrators.

In Srinagar, transport was off the roads today, while shops, markets and 
petrol pumps remained closed.

Law enforcement agencies have enforced prohibitory orders under Section 
144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in the city, said official 
sources.

On Friday, two persons were killed and 75 others, including 34 security 
personnel, were injured in clashes between demonstrators and the law 
enforcing agencies in the city.

According to reports from district towns, a complete shutdown was 
observed in Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam, 
Kupwara, Pulwama and Shopian.

Earlier on Friday, the separatists' coordination committee had given a 
call for peaceful protests and observance of civil curfew today to 
convey to the Prime Minister that mere packages would not solve the 
Kashmir problem, as it involved the future of a nation.





http://www.dawn.com/2008/10/10/rss.htm#46

Two Kashmiris killed in protest against Indian PM Friday, 10 Oct, 
SRINAGAR: At least two people were killed in occupied Kashmir on Friday 
in a protest against the Indian prime minister's visit to inaugurate a 
train link and power project. Over the past two months the disputed 
region has seen some of the biggest anti-India protests since a 
separatist revolt against Indian rule in 1989. About 40 people have been 
killed by security forces and more than 1,000 wounded. On Friday, two 
were killed and about 75 people were wounded when police fired bullets 
and teargas shells and used batons to disperse Muslim demonstrators who 
marched the streets in Srinagar, the summer capital, shouting ‘We want 
freedom’. (Posted @ 22:54 PST)






http://nation.ittefaq.com/issues/2008/10/07/news0014.htm

Kashmiris fighting India are terrorists: Zardari: Protests in Srinagar: 
Pak President’s effigy burnt

Asif Ali Zardari
Agency, Srinagar

A group of Muslim protesters in Indian-administered Kashmir has defied a 
curfew to denounce Pakistani President Asif Zardari and burn his effigy.

Zardari has provoked outrage after being reported as saying that Islamic 
militants fighting Indian rule in Kashmir were "terrorists".

Leading Kashmir separatists have also denounced Zardari.

Pakistan has supported anti-Indian militants and fought two wars with 
India over Kashmir.

Many Kashmiris and Pakistanis regard militant groups fighting Indian 
rule in Kashmir as freedom fighters. Zardari made his controversial 
reference to them as "terrorists" in an interview with the Wall Street 
Journal.

Protesters took to the streets of the town of Baramullah on Monday, 
close to the Line of Control that separates Indian and 
Pakistan-administered Kashmir, despite a curfew imposed by Indian 
security forces in Muslim-majority areas of the Kashmir Valley.

The BBC's Altaf Hussain in Srinagar says it is the first time that a 
Pakistani leader's effigy has been burnt in Indian-administered Kashmir 
where anti-India protests have often been marked by pro-Pakistan 
slogans. Prominent politicians fighting for an end to Indian rule in 
Kashmir joined in the condemnation of Zardari. Syed Ali Shah Geelani 
told the BBC that "Zardari has made these remarks to please the Americans".

"Zardari fears India and would do anything to please that country even 
at the cost of Pakistan's dignity," Geelani said. "Kashmiri youths have 
been fighting for a just cause."

India maintains a huge security presence in Kashmir and the military and 
police, as well as the militants, have frequently been accused of human 
rights abuses.

"In reality," Gilani said, "the people of Kashmir have been victims of 
state terrorism."

In Pakistan itself, Information Minister Sherry Rehman of Zardari's 
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) sought to clarify Zardari's comments.

"The president has made it very clear that the just cause of Kashmir and 
its struggle for self-determination has been a consistent central 
position of the PPP for 40 years now," she told the BBC Urdu service.

"There is no change in that policy. He has never called the legitimate 
aspirations of Kashmiris an expression of terrorism, nor has he 
undermined the sufferings of the Kashmiri people."

However she offered no explicit support for the use of violence to oust 
Indian forces from Kashmir.

Pakistan and India have fought three fully-fledged wars since 
independence in 1947. They came close to another war in 2002 after 
militants stormed the Indian parliament in Delhi in December, 2001.

The BBC's Barbara Plett in Islamabad says Pakistan's powerful military 
has long-defined India as a threat to Pakistan's existence and in the 
past it has given covert backing to the militants in Kashmir.

But Zardari told the Wall Street Journal that "India has never been a 
threat to Pakistan" and that "I, for one, and our democratic government 
is not scared of Indian influence abroad."

He also said that Pakistan had to develop strong economic ties with 
India. "There is no other economic survival for nations like us. We have 
to trade with our neighbours first."

He also appeared to acknowledge that his government had given consent to 
US air strikes in Pakistan.

Pakistan and India took part in a faltering peace process under the 
former President Pervez Musharraf.

But suspicions always ran deep, and relations have soured recently.

Our Islamabad correspondent says Zardari's comments mark a radical break 
with the past.

More reaction is expected in Pakistan after the country returns to 
normal working following the Eid festival holiday.





http://www.chinapost.com.tw/asia/india/2008/10/05/177468/Month-long-protest.htm

Updated Sunday, October 5, 2008 10:55 am TWN, AFP
Month-long protest ban imposed in Indian Kashmir
SRINAGAR, India -- Indian Kashmir imposed a one-month ban Saturday on 
public gatherings, the government said, in a move interpreted as a bid 
to scupper a planned rally by pro-independence Muslim separatists.
The order applied to gatherings of five or more in public spaces, a 
government statement said.
A committee spearheading recent protests against Indian rule had planned 
to hold a mass rally Monday in the main city of Srinagar.
Hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani has been placed under house 
arrest ahead of the proposed demonstration but other activists said they 
intended to march.





http://www.dawn.com/2008/10/06/rss.htm#14

Curfew in occupied Kashmir to prevent protest rally SRINAGAR: Police 
warned Monday they would shoot any violators of an indefinite curfew 
imposed in occupied Kashmir to prevent a pro-independence rally. 
Thousands of police and paramilitary soldiers in riot gear drove through 
neighborhoods and went to people's homes warning them to stay indoors, 
said Ghulam Nabi, a resident of Nowhatta district in Srinagar. (Posted @ 
12:08 PST)





http://www.dawn.com/2008/10/04/rss.htm#30


Protest ban imposed in occupied Kashmir Saturday, 04 Oct, SRINAGAR: 
Authorities have imposed a one-month ban Saturday on public gatherings, 
the occupied Kashmir government said, in a move interpreted as a bid to 
scupper a planned rally by pro-independence activists. The order applied 
to gatherings of five or more in public spaces, a government statement 
said. A committee spearheading recent protests against Indian rule had 
planned to hold a mass rally at Lal Chowk on Monday in the main city of 
Srinagar. (Posted @ 19:26 PST)












http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Protest_in_Srinagar_against_grenade_attack_on_separatists_house/articleshow/3521912.cms

Protest in Srinagar against grenade attack on separatist's house
24 Sep 2008, 1509 hrs IST, PTI

SRINAGAR: Police used batons and fired tear gas shells to disperse 
violent demonstrators protesting against the grenade attack at the residence

of a separatist leader here.

On Tuesday night, unidentified persons hurled a grenade at the house of 
Jamiat Ahli Hadees President Maulana Showkat Ahmad Shah.

"A group of youth pelted stones at security forces in Maisuma locality 
around 11.00 am. The forces retaliated with baton-charge and fired tear 
smoke shells to chase away the protestors," official sources said.

There were no reports of any injuries in the clashes so far, they added.

Hitherto unknown militant outfit Hizbul Muslimeen has claimed 
responsibility for the attack on Shah's residence.
Shah is a member of the Coordination Committee which is spearheading the 
ongoing agitation in the valley for right to self-determination.