2G Internet Shut Down In Kashmir Valley For Republic Day

The 71st Republic Day function passed off peacefully in J&K on Sunday, as the security agencies stopped all communication lines, even the just-restored 2G mobile Internet and calling service on mobile phones, in the Valley. However, the main function in Srinagar was conspicuous by the absence of any senior regional leader or ex-legislator, with no leader from the National Conference (NC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Peoples Conference showing up. Senior regional leadership, including Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah of the NC, Mehbooba Mufti of the PDP and Sajad Lone of the People’s Conference have been under detention since August 5.

Addressing a thinly attended gathering in Srinagar’s Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, Farooq Khan, Adviser to the Lieutenant-Governor, said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen on ushering J&K into a new era of progress and prosperity. The visit of 36 Union Ministers was the first step in this regard. The Ministers, besides inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of various development projects, reached out to the people and assured them of peace and prosperity.”