Seven Killed In Latest Wave Of Violence In Kashmir

MEP: Tensions are again simmering in the contested region of Kashmir after violence broke out on Sunday killing at least three Pakistani soldiers, while an equal number of Indian troops and one suspected rebel were also gunned down in separate clashes.

Kashmir is a Himalayan territory claimed by India, Pakistan, and China. Separatists in the India-administered zone of Jammu and Kashmir have been agitating for self-determination since 1989.

Deputy inspector general of police, north Kashmir, Nitish Kumar told Hindustan Times that during the cordon and search operation, militants fired from the house they were hiding. The security forces returned the fire.

One suspected rebel also died in the clash in Bandipora district, the Indian army’s Northern Command said.

At least 100 civilians have been killed in the subsequent crackdown, according to health officials.