Kashmir protests as India arrests leader

Protests continue in Indian-administered Kashmir as security forces arrest a top pro-independent leader in the disputed Himalayan region.

Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat Conference, was arrested at his residence in the state capital, Srinagar, after threatening to intensify anti-India demonstrations.

The arrest of the 82-year-old has spearheaded fresh protests in the region. Indian Paramilitary troops fired tear gas and used batons to disperse the protesters.

Police sources said Geelani was arrested for causing “breach of peace” in the valley. Geelani had earlier called for the withdrawal of Indian troops and investigations into the killing of civilians during the unrest.

Currently a curfew continues for the second consecutive day in Srinagar and other major towns of the region.

The fresh wave of protests was sparked when Indian forces shot a student dead in June.

Around 70 people have been killed during the demonstrations over the past three months.