Normal life in the Kashmir Valley was disrupted for the second day today due to a strike called by hardline Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani to protest arrest of youth.
Shops, schools, business establishments and petrol pumps were closed due to the strike while public transport remained off the roads, officials said.
However, some private vehicles could be seen plying on the roads in the city, they said.
Mr. Geelani had called for a two-day strike beginning on Tuesday to demand an end to the arrest of youth and release of all those arrested. He also demanded release of all political prisoners.
The effect of the strike was felt more due to the three-day strike called by government employees to demand release of arrears on account of Sixth Pay Commission. They are also demanding that the retirement age be increased to 60 years from the present 58.
Two rounds of talks between the government and representatives of employees’ unions over the past two days have failed to break the deadlock.
