Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Strike Triggered by Teen's Death Shuts Indian Kashmir

   VOA News 14 June 2010
   Indian  paramilitary soldiers stop motorcycle riders for checking on a
   deserted street in Srinagar, 13 June 2010

Photo: AP

   Indian  paramilitary soldiers stop motorcycle riders for checking on a
   deserted street in Srinagar, 13 June 2010

   Shops,  businesses, and offices were shut in Indian-controlled Kashmir
   Monday,  after  separatists  called a strike to protest the death of a
   teenager.
   Seventeen-year-old  Tufail  Ahmad Matoo was killed in the main town of
   Srinagar  Friday  during  clashes  between  anti-India  protesters and
   police.
   Residents  say  Mattoo  was hit by a teargas shell fired by police and
   was  carrying  a  school  bag  when  he  was  hit. Police say they are
   investigating the death.
   Clashes  between  demonstrators  and  security  forces have erupted in
   Srinagar  since  the  incident,  with  strict security restrictions in
   place to prevent further violence.
   Kashmiri  Muslim  separatists  have  been fighting for two decades for
   independence from India or a merger with Muslim-majority Pakistan.
   The insurgency has killed more than 47,000 people.

   Kashmir  is  divided  between  India  and Pakistan, but claimed in its
   entirety by both. The neighbors have fought two wars over the region.

   Some information for this report was provided by AP and AFP.

.