Fri 09 August 2019:
The Indian government has revoked the special status of Indian-administered Kashmir in its constitution, the most far-reaching political move on the disputed region in nearly seven decades.
In the lead-up to the move, India sent thousands of additional troops to the disputed region, imposing a crippling curfew, shutting down telecommunications and internet, and arresting political leaders.
Curfew to be eased for Friday prayers
The strict curfew in Kashmir that has entered a fifth day will be eased for Friday prayers, the police chief said.
“People will be allowed to go to the area-specific mosques for the prayers in most parts of the Srinagar city,” the region’s police chief, Dilbagh Singh, told The Associated Press.
The relaxing of the curfew was temporary but a precise timeframe was noy given.
KASHMIR: All the latest updates
Pakistan FM visiting ‘trusted friend’ China over Kashmir
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi is visiting China as part of efforts to pressure India to reverse its decision revoking the special status of the disputed region of Kashmir.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi will meet with Chinese leaders on Friday. Before leaving for Beijing, Qureshi said he will apprise Islamabad’s “trusted friend” about the situation.
Pakistan says it is considering a proposal to approach the International Court of Justice over India’s action.
Kashmir’s streets silent as people’s despair and rage grow
Silence cloaks the centre of Srinagar on Friday, its once-teeming streets blocked with spools of concertina wire. Every road is sealed off. The population has been forced indoors while thousands of Indian soldiers in camouflage are on patrol, carrying guns at their waists.
Friday marks the fourth day since the main city in Indian-administered Kashmir is under siege.
Muslim worshippers are expected to attend Friday prayers at mosques across the region later on Friday.
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