Chidambaram says Army deployed as deterrent in Kashmir Valley

New Delhi, July 8 (ANI): Home Minister P Chidambaram on Thursday said that Army in Kashmir is on standby duties only for a short period time.

Talking to reporters here, Chidambaram said: "Army in Kashmir only as a deterrent."

He also said that the situation in the Kashmir valley was peaceful since morning but parents must ensure that children adhere to curfew regulations.

"Our appeal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir is observe the curfew. It is important that people don't come into the streets. Parents must ensure that their children remain indoors," he added.

Chidambaram said that Police and CRPF personnel were patrolling in most of the areas and army was ready and on stand by in areas vigilantly watching the movement.

He hoped that the presence of army would not be necessary for too long here.e further said that the government will not disclose the areas where army has been deployed.

Meanwhile, indefinite curfew continues in the Kashmir Valley, though stray incidents of violence were reported as the Army undertook another flag march in Srinagar.

Sopore and old parts of Baramulla were also placed under curfew as a precautionary measure.

According to sources, a group of protestors attempted to gather in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar last night, but were peacefully dispersed by security forces.

All scheduled examinations to be held by the Kashmir University and various professional exams by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission have been postponed.

On Wednesday, Union Home Secretary GK Pillai met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and reviewed the overall law and order situation.

Pillai assured Abdullah of the Centre's complete support in maintaining peace in the Valley.

The army was deployed in on Srinagar on Tuesday night following violent protests, which left three persons dead and over 70 injured.

Seventeen columns of army soldiers conducted flag marches on Wednesday, following widespread violence in the Batmaloo and Maisuma localities.

The decision to deploy the Army was taken after Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made a formal request to the Central Government for its help in enforcing curfew and maintaining law and order in Srinagar.

The situation in the valley has been tense over the past few weeks due to repeated clashes between protestors and security forces. (ANI)