The Kashmir valley and Muslim majority areas of Jammu region continue to reel under military lockdown and communications blackout on the 66th consecutive day, today.

This has virtually cut off the territory from the rest of the world. Main markets, educational institutions are closed and public transport is off the roads.

With deployment of Indian forces in full riot gear in every nook and corner of the territory and widespread presence of barricades and razor wires, the Kashmir valley presents the look of an open air prison.

The residents are facing essential commodities due to continued blockade and fast approaching winter.

As the territory getting into the third month of the humanitarian crisis triggered by the Indian government’s decision to abrogate special status of Jammu and Kashmir on 5th August, normal life continues to remain paralyzed.

Internet connectivity stands closed. The train between Baramulla and Banihal continues to be frozen for more than nine weeks.

The authorities made several efforts in the past nine weeks to reopen the schools. However, officials admit that the students did not come to schools.

People in most of the Valley areas including Shopian, Pulwama and Kulgam have not been able to harvest the apple, which may have serious impact on the economy of the Kashmiri people.

An English language Indian website in a report said that Kashmiri boys aged 14 and 16 are held under dreaded Public Safety Act and sent to jails in Uttar Pradesh.

It said that the occupational authorities were not required to provide grounds for detention for up to 10 days.