Apprehending ‘protests and action’ on the first anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, the Deputy Magistrate, Srinagar, has ordered ‘curfew’ on August 4 and 5 in Srinagar.
Shahid Choudhary, who is also the chairman of district disaster management authority, said in an order that Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) of Srinagar has reported that inputs have been received suggesting that separatists and Pakistan-sponsored groups are planning to observe August 5 as ‘Black Day’, and so, there may be unrest in the district. There are specific inputs about violent protests endangering public life and property, the report said, and recommended curfew in Srinagar to prevent it.
The report further suggests that in view of COVID-19 restrictions that are already in place, the movement and assembly of people have been prohibited to prevent the spread of the pandemic in view of the recent spike.
“After having considered the material facts in the report and examining the situation in the backdrop of the prevailing factors, I district magistrate Srinagar by virtue of powers vested in me under section CrPC 144 hereby order complete restrictions/curfew on public movement in territorial jurisdiction of Srinagar,’’ the order said.
The order said movement of medical emergencies and staff on COVID-19 duty are exempted from the restriction. It said the restriction shall come into force with immediate effect and shall remain enforced on August 4 and 5.
It said the restrictions announced in view of COVID-19 on July 30 shall continue till August 8, unless revised.
The PDP today said it will mark August 5 as 'Black Day' while the BJP has said it plans to celebrate the day by organising several functions across J&K.
