Kashmir: Kashmir Valley remains tense following massive violent protests after 11 civilians died in Central Reserve Police Force firing in the last 18 days. Protests have now spread to south Kashmir as well.
Curfew has been extended to seven places including Pulwama, Bijbehera and Kulgam. It has been relaxed in Srinagar on Wednesday but continues in Anantnag, Sopore and Baramula.
SMS services have been suspended in the Valley with officials saying that the service was being stopped so that there is no large-scale rumour mongering that often incites violence.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has toned down his attack on the CRPF. He is now blaming the anti-national elements and vested interest for fomenting trouble by exploiting the situation in the state.
"It is not a simple law and order situation. It is battle of ideas and ideologies. Various anti-national forces and vested interests have come together to foment trouble. It is extremely unfortunate that vulnerable youth are being incited and brought to forefront resulting in tragic incidents", Omar said in Srinagar on Tuesday evening.
Omar, who got the backing of Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on his handling of the situation, also sent a tough message declaring "wherever curfew has been imposed it will be enforced strictly."
"The cycle of violence has to stop," the Chief Minister said.
Omar said it was the duty of government to maintain law and order and restore peace. Chidambaram said he "endorsed every word" of the statement by Abdullah on the situation in Kashmir Valley.
"There are reliable reports that anti-national elements are trying to exploit the situation. Some militants may also have sneaked into the valley to trigger violence," he said in a statement in New Delhi after reviewing the incidents in the state since June 11.
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