Shutdown affects normal life in Jammu
29 Aug 2008, 1544 Hrs

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Jammu, Aug 29 (ANI): Normal life was affected here on Friday by the closure of shops, markets and commercial establishments in the wake of a shutdown call given by the Shri Amarnath Yatra Sangarsh Samiti (SAYSS).

Vehicular traffic also came to a grinding halt, traffic on the national highway between Lakhanpur and the Jawahar Tunnel was plying normally, sources said.

The fourth round of talks between the Samiti and the Jammu and Kashmir Governor appointed four-member panel did not materialise on Thursday, as the Chairman of the Governor's panel, Dr. S.S. Belorea, was indisposed. It is expected to take place today.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has expressed concern about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. In a statement the commission called on India, especially the Indian security forces, to comply with international human rights principles in controlling protesters.

"The Acting High Commissioner calls for thorough and independent investigations into all killings that have occurred so far," Michele Montas, spokesperson for UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, told reporters in New York on Wednesday.

Responding strongly to that statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said: "We regret that the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has issued a statement on the situation in J-K. This is uncalled for and irresponsible. India does not need any advice in respect of the protection and promotion of the human rights of its citizens". (ANI)