The Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday lifted the ongoing curfew from parts of the Valley "following an improvement in the situation", 52 days after it was imposed in the state. The restrictions, however, continue to be in force in locations under the jurisdictions of the Nowhatta and Maharajganj police stations, which are located in Srinagar, and in Pulwama town, a spokesperson for the police told Hindustan Times.
Authorities made the decision to end the curfew at a high-level meeting on Sunday evening, The Times of India reported. Separatists, however, continue to protest and have called for the shutdown in the state to continue till September 1, even after Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti appealed to them to help the government "save the lives of innocent youth".
Section 144, which prohibits more than 10 people from assembling in a location, continues to be enforced, according to India Today. A delegation of senior leaders from a number of political parties, including Home Affairs Minister Rajnath Singh, are scheduled to visit Kashmir on September 3.
The decision to lift the restrictions came a day after Mufti appealed for "a change to fix things" and to resolve the "big crisis" in the state, after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At least 70 civilians have died in clashes in the Valley, which began after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen leader Burhan Wani.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!