Originally published by the Voice of America (www.voanews.com).
Voice of America is funded by the US Federal Government and content it
exclusively produces is in the public domain.
August 12, 2008

Death Toll Rises as Protests Continue in Kashmir
------------------------------------------------

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=1DA819C:5F753BCA39991A3BF8038FCC0AF934D9A13B8D4F2090AB2B&
 
Security forces have killed at least 13 protesters, as Muslim
separatists demonstrate against economic blockade, India's rule over
region 
At least 13 people have died as Indian security forces opened fire on
protests led by Muslim separatists in Indian-controlled Kashmir.
Shahnawaz Khan reports for VOA from Srinagar that police killed four
people Monday who were trying to lead a march to Muzaffarabad in
Pakistan-controlled territory. Kashmiri Muslims look at burnt vehicle
belonging to one of party workers of a pro Indian political party after
it was set on fire by protesters in Srinagar, 12 Aug 2008At least three
of the protesters were shot in the town of Bandipora, located about 60
kilometers north of Kashmir's summer capital of Srinagar. The other
protesters were killed at separate demonstrations near Srinagar and in
Kishtwar District. The demonstrations were held despite a curfew imposed
Monday, after Kashmiri separatist leader Sheikh Aziz and three other
people were shot and killed by Indian forces trying to stop thousands of
Muslim protesters from marching to the Pakistan-controlled part of
Kashmir. Kashmiri separatist leaders held the march to protest what they
say is an economic blockade by Hindu extremists in the Himalayan region.
Kashmiri Muslims wave Pakistan's national flag during the funeral
procession of Sheik Abdul Aziz, leader of All Parties Hurriyat
Conference, in Srinagar, 12 Aug 2008Hindu protesters have blocked a
major highway leading to the Muslim-dominated Kashmir Valley, disrupting
the flow of supplies to the region. The fruit industry, in particular,
has taken a big hit."By this economic blockade they have completely
finished the apple industry at least for this year. Because our crop was
ready and it came back," said Mubeen Shah is the President of Kashmir
Chamber of Commerce and Industry.  The Hindus are demanding that the
government re-instate a land transfer to a Hindu shrine. The government
recently backed off the plan after Muslims held violent protests against
what they termed "Hindu colonization." Kashmir is divided between!
  Pakistan and India, and claimed by both. Muslim separatists have be

en fighting for Kashmir's independence from India or for the region's
merger with Pakistan.


.