Srinagar: Security forces on Saturday resorted to lathi charge and burst teargas shells to disperse demonstrators who hit the streets in Pulwama, where an encounter ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO).
This morning, people, mostly youths, hit the streets at Hanjan, Rajpora and other areas in Pulwama district to protest against the CASO by security forces. However, when the demonstrators, raising slogans, tried to disrupt the operation, security forces and state police personnel deployed in the area swung into action and prevented them from moving ahead.
Security forces resorted to lathi charge which had no impact on stone pelting demonstrators who were regrouping and trying to march towards operation area. Later, security forces burst teargas shells to chase away the demonstrators, said the official sources. They also added that clashes were going on when the reports last came in. Additional security forces have been deployed on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, particularly at Pampore and Awantipora to prevent stone pelting.
Life remained crippled for the second day in most parts of Pulwama district. Shops and business establishments remained closed and traffic was off the roads. Yesterday, spontaneous strike was observed in Pulwama after a militant was killed in an encounter by security forces.Internet service also remained suspended in Pulwama as a precautionary measure to prevent spread of rumours.