The prime minister, while addressing the UNGA, on Friday warned that Kashmir would witness a bloodbath once the curfew was lifted by India in the valley, which has been under heavy restrictions since New Delhi revoked the region’s special constitutional status in August.
Soon after the PM’s speech, hundreds of Kashmiris came out on the streets late on Friday night and shouted slogans in favour of Imran Khan. They also called for the independence of Kashmir.
On Saturday, police announced restrictions on movement in some parts of Srinagar, while additional forces were deployed to quell any protests, according to eyewitnesses and government officials. Security forces also locked down the main business centre in the city.
After India revoked Kashmir’s special status, it also imposed harsh restrictions on the people, including suspension of telephone and internet services.
A police official, while requesting anonymity, said, “This was necessary after protests were witnessed across Srinagar city late last night as soon as Imran Khan finished his speech.”
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has been a bone of contention between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan and both the countries have fought two wars over the disputed territory.
During his speech, the PM called upon India to free all detainees while saying that Kashmir was under an “inhumane curfew”.
According to an Indian official, some areas in occupied Kashmir, including Soura region near Srinagar, have been declared sensitive after protestors clashed with security forces on Friday night. Police had to resort to the use of teargas to disperse them, he added.