3 killed, 30 injured in grenade attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir

At least three civilians were killed and 30 others including seven paramilitary troopers wounded Thursday in a grenade attack in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir, officials said.

The grenade attack was carried out in Tral town of Pulwama district, about 41 km south of Srinagar city.

"Suspected militants threw a grenade and then resorted to indiscriminate firing in Tral town near bus terminal," a police official said. "The grenade missed the intended target and exploded on road killing and wounding civilians."

Health officials said three civilians were killed and 30 others brought to hospital in wounded condition.

"Three civilians were brought dead and 30 others were provided treatment at the hospital," medical superintendent at Tral hospital told local media.

Reports said the attack was aimed at cavalcade of a local minister Nayeem Akhter, which was passing through the town.

"Seven of our personnel deployed on the duty were injured in the attack," Rajesh Yadav, spokesman of India's paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) told Xinhua. "It is said first a grenade was hurled and then few shots were fired."

So far, no militant outfit has claimed responsibility of the attacks.

Militant groups opposing New Delhi's rule are engaged in a guerilla war with Indian troops in the region since 1989. Gunfight between the two sides takes place intermittently. At times militants target police and paramilitary through grenades.

Kashmir, the Himalayan region divided between India and Pakistan, is claimed by both in full. Since their independence from Britain, the two countries have fought three wars, two exclusively over Kashmir.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)