Pinglana Warriors with the trophy in Pulwama on Saturday. Tribune photo

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, July 9

While the Valley observed a complete shutdown on the death anniversary of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani, the Army organised a series of events for the youth in volatile south Kashmir.The Army organised the final of a cricket tournament yesterday in Pulwama — the home district of Burhan Wani.The Pulwama-based Army camp conducted the final of the Sher-e-Kashmir Inter-Village Cricket Tournament on Saturday. The final was played between Pinglana Warriors and Awantipora Sports XI at the Panzgom cricket ground, an Army spokesman said. Pinglana won by 30 runs.“The game organised amid the various calls given by the separatists on the death anniversary of slain militant Burhan Wani is a reflection of the increasing trust and confidence of the locals in the armed forces, desirable and warranted to bring peace and tranquillity in the Valley,” an Army spokesman said, adding that 16 teams of Pulwama district participated in the tournament that commenced on July 1.In neighbouring Shopian and Kulgam districts, the Army organised a cricket tournament and a trekking trip for a number of youths.“Despite a shutdown, around 250 youths from the volatile areas of Kulgam and Shopian participated in the cricket and trekking events,” an Army officer said.Similar events were held by the Army in central Kashmir’s Budgam district. Victor Force GOC Major General BS Raju said the events were held despite a shutdown.“By holding these events, a message has been conveyed that a large population is not subscribing to separatists and they are ready to take their neck out and be a part of the programmes which show normalcy,” Major General BS Raju said.

‘Goodwill’ events across Valley

• The Army also organised a cricket tournament and a trekking trip in Shopian and Kulgam districts
• Despite shutdown, a number of youths took part in the events, showing that they too wanted normalcy, said Victor Force GOC Major General BS Raju