Srinagar: Normal life was disrupted in Kashmir Valley on October 8 following a strike call given by separatist and militant organisations coinciding with the fourth and final phase of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

Srinagar wore a deserted look as shops and business establishments remained closed and transporters chose to remain off the roads following the strike call given by pro-Pakistan Hizbul Mujahideen and supported by several separatist organisations including Hurriyat Conference.

Similar reports were received from other districts in the valley, official sources reported on October 8.

Assembly elections are being held in six constituencies of Doda district and Lolab segment in Kupwara on October 8.

The first three phases of elections, held on September 16 and 24 and October 1, also witnessed dawn-to-dusk strikes called by Hurriyat Conference.

Hurriyat had given a poll boycott call saying tripartite talks between India, Pakistan and representatives of Kashmir only could resolve the Kashmir issue and described the elections as a "futile exercise".

PTI