Srinagar, Feb 16 (KNS): Soon after the reports about ‘harassment’ to Kashmiris outside the Valley spread here, the trade bodies Saturday called for Kashmir Band on Sunday to exhibit solidarity with the people of Valley currently staying in Jammu or elsewhere.
The trade bodies including both the factions of Kashmir Traders Manufacturing federation (KTMF) headed by Muhammad Yasin Khan and Bashir Ahmad Rather, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCC&I) headed by Sheikh Ashiq and Traders Association Lal Chowk and others called for a complete shutdown on Sunday.
The shopkeepers in Lal Chowk area of Srinagar also observed complete shutdown from 03:00 pm today in solidarity with Kashmiris staying outside the Valley.
All the shutters went down this afternoon after the federation announced call for a shutdown across Kashmir till Sunday evening.
The traders also assembled near Ganta Ghar here amid sloganeering in favour of Kashmiris outside the Valley, demanding authorities to take steps to ensure safety of people of Kashmir outside.
“We are protesting here to express concern over the growing attacks on Kashmiris including students, employees and common persons in Jammu and other places. This protest is aimed to exhibit solidarity with them,” protesting traders said.
They added Governor led administration must take steps to ensure safety of Kashmiris. “We want administration to ensure that no Kashmiri be harmed in any part of India,” they said.
Following the protest, clashes erupted in Maisuma and adjacent areas during which forces used tear gas canisters to disperse the agitating youth. (KNS)