SRINAGAR: Four districts of south Kashmir — Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam and Anantnag — have descended into anarchy with hundreds and thousands holding 'azadi' rallies almost daily in absence of an effective police force. Sources said the police department has "for the time being" shut down dozens of police stations. Most have turned into empty shells now guarded by the Army and CRPF.CRPF personnel are no longer visible in south Kashmir. The mob bolted with nearly 70 semi-automatic and automatic rifles and took two policemen of Damhal Hanjipora hostage. Some local militants were seen carrying weapons in one of the 'azadi' rallies in Anantnag," a police officer said.

Source: Times of India August 22, 2016 19:39 UTC