At Least 1 Civilian Killed, 21 Injured in Kashmir After Encounter With Militants

The protests in the town of Kulgam in the Indian Jammu and Kashmir state, prompted by the death of two people, who accidentally died in an operation against militants, resulted in the death of another civilian, while 21 others were injured, local media reported Monday, citing authorities.

NEW DELHI (Sputnik) – Two civilians, two Indian junior servicemen and four terrorists were killed on Sunday in the operation by the Indian security forces that took place in the Kulgam district. The accidental death of two civilians in clashes caused protests, later suppressed by police that used tear gas, bullets and pellets, according to the Hindustan Times newspaper.

The 24-year old civilian died of wounds after police opened fire at the protesters, deputy inspector general of south Kashmir SP Pani said.

The majority of the 21 wounded are out of danger, but the number of injured is likely to be higher, the newspaper reported, citing a medical official.

The region of Kashmir has been disputed between India and Pakistan since the partition of British India in 1947. New Delhi has repeatedly accused Islamabad of backing terrorism in the area.