Indian Forces Arrest 30 People Kashmir
Kashmir, MINA – Srinagar officials, Kashmir said on Tuesday, August 20 Indian security forces arrested 30 people overnight. The security forces tried to prevent protests over the federal government’s decision to revoke regional autonomy.
A police officer said young people pelted stones at paramilitary police stationed in Srinagar. The latest arrests took place in several parts of the city where such incidents occurred.
“These arrests have been carried out in areas where stone-throwing has increased in recent days,” said the officer as quoted from Republika.
A local government official confirmed the latest detention. Protestors often demonstrate in the city despite restrictions on telephone and internet services, a ban on public meetings, detention of hundreds of political leaders, and separatists who have long campaigned for secession from India.
By revoking the special rights of Kashmir, which is predominantly Muslim, residents in all parts of India can buy property and compete for government jobs and college places. That raises concerns that it will be filled with outsiders.
The surprise move of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also increased tensions with his rival, Pakistan, who claimed Kashmir and accused India of violating human rights in the region.
US President Donald Trump spoke with Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday urging them to reduce tensions over Kashmir. “Difficult situation, but good conversation!” great-grandson Trump via Twitter.
Authorities in Indian Kashmir said Monday the protest was local and small, involving no more than a dozen people. In addition, elementary schools remain quiet on Tuesday because parents worry about the safety of their children.
Authorities have ordered schools to reopen on Monday, after closing for two weeks.
The high-ranking official of the city of Srinagar, Shahid Choudhary, has asked schools to ensure the resumption of bus services. A driver said that it was difficult to operate a bus in such a turbulent situation. “This is very risky for us and the students,” he said. (T/Sj/P2)
Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)
