SRINAGAR – In occupied Kashmir, defying curfew-like restrictions, thousandsof people participated in the funeral prayers of a martyred youth, NaseerAhmed Teli, in Chinkipora area of Sopore, on Friday.

Naseer Ahmed Teli was killed by Indian troops during a cordon and searchoperation at Sagipora in Handwara area of Kupwara district, last night.

The occupation authorities imposed curfew-like restrictions in Sopore andits adjoining areas and ordered closure of educational institutions toprevent demonstrations against the killing.

The participants of funeral raised high-pitched pro-freedom and anti-Indiaslogans. Earlier, Indian troops fired teargas shells and pellets on themourners when they were taking Naseer’s body to perform his last rites.

Meanwhile, complete shutdown was observed in Sopore, Pampore, Budgam andTral areas to protest against the killing of the youth.

All shops, business establishments and educational institutions remainedclosed while transport was off the road.

In an interview in Srinagar, APHC Chairman, Syed Ali Gilani, said strugglefor Kashmir’s freedom would continue till complete success.

He said Kashmir dispute could be resolved through talks but India had nevershowed sincerity and seriousness in the dialogue.

Chairman of Hurriyat forum, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, addressing a gathering atJamia Masjid in Srinagar said Kashmiris were going through the worst phaseof oppression.