Restrictions in Kashmir being eased out in phased manner, says govt

india

Updated: Aug 14, 2019 00:27 IST

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Tuesday said restrictions imposed in the Valley last week in the wake of the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status would be lifted in a phased manner.

Government spokesperson Rohit Kansal said the move to ease the restrictions was taken following an assessment of different areas in the Kashmir division by local authorities. He added that normalcy had been restored in the Jammu division.

Both Jammu and Kashmir divisions have 10 districts each.

“The Jammu region is entirely free of restrictions. Restrictions, however, do continue in parts of Kashmir based on local assessment,” he said, adding that restrictions may be relaxed after Independence Day celebrations.

Mobile and landline connectivity as well as internet services were blocked and prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedures imposed last Monday, hours before the Centre revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and split it into two union territories — J&K and Ladakh.

“We are conscious and sensitive to the difficulties being faced by everybody as a result of restrictions but I wish to emphasize the reasonable restrictions may be necessary to stop mischief mongers from carrying out any untoward incident,” Kansal said.

A senior home ministry official said striking a balance between possible casualties because of violence and inconvenience caused to people -was necessary. “As we go forward, curbs and restrictions will be reduced. The government is keen to restore normalcy as early as possible,” he added.

A day after Eid al-Adha, restrictions were eased in many parts of the Kashmir Valley. People were seen visiting relatives to exchange Eid greetings.

While referring to the initiatives taken by the government in the two regions, Kansal said that medical services were being provided to the people without any hindrance.

He said that 13,500 patients received treatment at out-patient departments (OPDs) in various hospitals; 1,400 new admissions have also been made, and 600 medical procedures have been performed so far. He said that drugs including the life-saving ones have been made available in every hospital across the Valley.

In addition, the Jammu-Srinagar national highway and flights from the Valley continue to function normally, Kansal said.

On the full-dress rehearsal for the Independence Day, Kansal said it had been done in every district of the Valley and the necessary arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of Independence Day celebrations.