Separatists call for shutdown in Indian Kashmir

Reuters - Indian Kashmir was shut down today (August 30) to protest the possibility of removal of Article-35(A) of the Constitution, which provides special rights to the "permanent residents" of the state. The Article 35-A bars outsiders to hold property or to get jobs in Indian Kashmir. This article of the Indian Constitution recognises and empowers the permanent residents of the state by providing them with special powers. It is in accordance with article 370, which gives an autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir. The implementation of the article has been challenged by a bunch of petitions in India's apex court. The Supreme Court is due to hear the plea on Friday (August 31). A local, Mohammad Hussain, said the removal of article will be opposed by all the residents across the state. As per local media reports, train services to between Baramulla and Bannihal towns was suspended for two days. The state university has also rescheduled all entrance exams to various post-graduate courses. The exams were suppose to be held on Thursday and Friday. Shops were closed and roads were deserted. Even the otherwise buzzing Central Market was closed and saw no visitors. Armed policemen were seen patrolling the deserted streets to prevent any untoward incident.