India deploys extra troops to halt Kashmir protests

INDIA: Indian authorities deployed thousands of troops across Kashmir on Monday to prevent demonstrations planned to mark the 61st anniversary of New Delhi's rule over the region.

In Srinagar, Kashmir's summer capital, troops patrolled deserted streets, erected barricades and blocked roads leading to the offices of U.N. Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP). UNMOGIP, one of the oldest U.N. missions, monitors a 1949 ceasefire line dividing Kashmir between India and Pakistan.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman of the separatist All Parties Hurriyat (Freedom) Conference alliance, was placed under house arrest to prevent him from leading a march to the U.N. office.

Srinagar, Monday, Reuters