Strike shuts Kashmir after Indian soldiers kill 2 civilians

SRINAGAR, India – Shops and businesses are shut in Indian-controlled Kashmir after separatists fighting against Indian rule called for a strike a day after soldiers shot and killed two young men in the disputed region.

Armed police and paramilitary soldiers in riot gear have fanned out across the region Sunday and are patrolling streets in anticipation of anti-India protests.

Authorities have also issued a curfew in the old parts of Kashmir's main city of Srinagar, the urban center of protests and clashes against Indian rule.

Two students were killed and nine other people were wounded Saturday after soldiers in southern Shopian area opened fire at stone-throwing protesters.

India and Pakistan each administer part of Kashmir, but both claim the territory in its entirety.

Rebels have been fighting against Indian rule since 1989.