Srinagar: The Kashmir Valley continues to be under lockdown, with restriction placed on movement, communication and internet services, after the Centre decided to revoke Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and reorganise it into two Union Territories.From August 5, the day the decision was announced in parliament, photographer Muzamil Bhat documented the situation in Srinagar. Beginning with security forces being deployed on day 1 of the restrictions to protests and clashes over the following days, this photo story captures the series of chronological events that have unfolded over the past three weeks in the city.A CRPF officer briefing his battalion before deploying them in the Maisuma area of Lal Chowk, Srinagar, August 5. Photo: Muzamil BhatMigrant labourers in Old City area of Srinagar, August 5. Authorities had advised all Non-Kashmiris, including tourists and yatris, to leave the state before imposing a clampdown. Photo: Muzamil BhatAs clashes break out, protestors with pellet injuries from guns used by security forces get admitted to the SKIMS Hospital of Srinagar. Photo taken on August 9. Photo: Muzamil BhatA shikara makes its way through the Nigeen Lake on August 11. All tourists were evacuated from the Valley by the government in early August. Photo: Muzamil BhatNewspapers publish four-page editions, amidst a shutdown of phone lines, internet and landlines. Photo taken on August 11. Photo: Muzamil BhatWomen participate in Eid prayers at a shrine in Soura on August 12. Photo: Muzamil BhatOn Eid, amid severe restrictions on movement, people attend prayers at a shrine in Soara on August 12. Photo: Muzamil BhatA road in Srinagar after protests resulted in a clash with security forces. Photo: Muzamil BhatA CRFP jawan stands at a road blockade. Photo taken on August 12, Photo: Muzamil BhatThe streets of the city remain completely deserted on August 15, with intense security deployment. Photo: Muzamil BhatGovernor Satya Pal Malik hoists the flag on August 15. Photo: Muzamil BhatA protest in downtown Srinagar with people carrying flags of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and Pakistan on August 16. Photo: Muzamil BhatA protestor waves a Pakistan Occupied Kashmir flag while standing on a rooftop on August 16. Photo: Muzamil BhatProtestors pelt stones at security forces on August 16. Photo: Muzamil BhatProtestors and security forces clash in Soara locality of Srinagar on August 16. Photo: Muzamil BhatPostal services remain suspended, as do internet and telephones. Photo taken on August 22. Photo: Muzamil BhatMuzamil Bhat is a Srinagar-based photographer.
