Strike prevents trial resuming
A STRIKE in Kashmir Valley prevented the trial of the man accused of murdering Sarah Groves from reconvening yesterday.
But it is hoped it can get under way again today.
The strike meant the accused, Richard de Wit, could not be transferred from prison to court.
One witness did turn up but was asked to return for today’s scheduled hearing.
‘We were informed yesterday that the separatists had called for a general strike in the Kashmir Valley for today to coincide with the first stages of elections,’ said Miss Groves’ father, Vic.
‘This has resulted in a heavy police presence and a shutdown of internet services during the morning.
‘Consequently, the court could not properly convene.’
On 20 June, Governor’s Rule was imposed on the State of Jammu and Kashmir following the breakdown of the coalition government that had been in power for some while.
The turmoil in the region, brought about by separatists, was mainly to blame for its introduction, Mr Groves said.
‘There had seemingly been no way of resolving key issues or of stamping out the unrest under the coalition government.
‘Unfortunately, the situation has not improved under Governor’s Rule and disruption to normal daily life is, if anything, becoming a more regular feature. Once again, today’s hearing has been thwarted due to events beyond its control.
‘Hopefully, the one-day strike will not spill over to affect today’s hearing.’
