Srinagar, Dec 29 (UNI) Security forces resorted to lathicharge and burst teargas shells to disperse demonstrators who hit the streets in Pulwama, where an encounter ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) on Saturday.
People, mostly youths, hit the streets at Hanjan, Rajpora and other areas in Pulwama district this morning protesting against the CASO by security forces. However, when the demonstrators, raising slogans, tried to disrupt the operation, security forces and state police personnel deployed swung into action and prevented them from moving ahead.
Security forces resorted to lathicharge 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, official sources said, adding 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.
UNI BAS SV 1051