Srinagar, July 10 - Life in Kashmir was paralysed Friday due to a shutdown called by separatists to protest the alleged molestation and murder of a college student in Kupwara district.

The shutdown, called by the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Geelani, was complete in summer capital Srinagar and other major towns of the valley with shops and businesses remaining closed, and public transport off the roads.

A few private vehicles could be seen plying on roads heavily patrolled by police and Central Reserve Police Force (CPPF) personnel.

The 20-year-old college student was allegedly molested and murdered by a trooper of the 160 Territorial Army (TA).

The trooper, Ashiq Hussain Peer, was detained by the police Thursday as violent protests erupted in Dolipora Trehgam village and adjoining areas.

Relatives of the victim claim the trooper was accompanied by some of his associates as he forced his entry into the room where the victim was asleep.

The district magistrate has assured villagers of action in the case once the autopsy report is available.