Clashes in Anantnag & Pulwama, internet suspended

Srinagar, June 22: Clashes erupted between demonstrators and security forces in parts of south Kashmir, where three militants, a jawan and a civilian were killed and a woman injured in an encounter on Friday.

Meanwhile, authorities suspended internet mobile service in Anantnag and Pulwama as a precautionary measure to prevent spread of rumours.

Hundreds of the people, mostly youths, hit the streets in some area of Anantnag, where a fierce encounter took place between militants hiding in a house and security forces during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO).

The demonstrators were however, stopped by the security forces from moving towards the area where operation was going on against the holed up militant, leading to clashes. Security forces burst teargas shells and pellets to disperse the demonstrators who were pelting stones.

Several demonstrators and security personnel were injured in the clashes which were going on when the reports last came in.

Business and other activities remained affected due to clashes in most part of Anantnag.

Meanwhile, panic gripped in Pulwama town when some youths hit the streets raising slogans and disrupting traffic movement after rumours spread that one of the militant killed in Anantnag encounter was a resident of Pulwama. The demonstrators pelted stones near police station and forced closure of shops and business establishments in the main town and adjoining areas.

The authorities suspended mobile internet as a precautionary measure to prevent spread of rumours.