Many parts in central Kashmir's Budgam district are observing a shutdown to protest last year civilian killings on the poll day, which saw NC leader and former Chief Minister winning the Srinagar Parliamentary seat by a thin margin as only 7.1 percent of votes were polled. Notably, nine civilians were killed in forces’ action during the day. While eight civilians died in forces’ action on protesters during the poll violence in Budgam areas, another civilian was shot by the forces in Barsoo village of Ganderbal district.
Reports said that shops and other business establishments are closed in Chadoora, Charar-e-Sharief, Pakherpora and Dalwan – the native areas of slain civilians. Public transport is off the roads. Meanwhile, the district administration last night ordered closure of all colleges and higher secondary schools in these areas. Besides, additional security forces have been deployed in strength to foil any attempts of protests in the area.