SRINAGAR: Strict curfew continued on Saturday in Kashmir even as the curfew was extended in several parts of the restive region, separatist leaders upped their stand and called for weekend protests against Indian rule. Administration also suspended all internet services in Kashmir. Government troops in armored vehicles patrolled the streets to thwart any attempt by protesters in Srinagar to march to the city's commercial center. At about eight places in the city on protests erupted Inspite of strict curfew on Saturday. At two places, police and paramilitary soldiers fired tear gas and shotgun pellets to stop rock-throwing protesters. At least 10 people, including six policemen, were injured in clashes across the region, said a police officer speaking on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to speak to the media. Separatist leaders, who challenge India's sovereignty over Kashmir, urged Kashmiris to march to a historic square over the weekend to demand a referendum to decide the future of the region. Shops, businesses and schools were shut for the 36th straight day and authorities blocked most cellphone services and internet in an attempt to prevent demonstrators from mobilizing. Kashmir has been under a security lockdown and curfew since the killing of a popular rebel commander on July 8 sparked some of the largest protests against Indian rule in recent years. At least 56 civilians and two policemen have been killed and more than 1,400 protesters have been arrested. Kashmir is divided between archrivals India and Pakistan, but claimed by both in its entirety.
