Gunfight between militants, Indian troops erupts in Indian-controlled Kashmir

Xinhua

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A fierce gunfight between militants and Indian troops broke out Thursday in Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said.

The gunfight erupted at village Chanigam-Frisal in Kulgam district, about 53 km south of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"On a specific information regarding the presence of armed militants in village Chanigam-Frisal, police and army cordon off the area and launched search operation," a police spokesman said. "The joint party was fired upon by militants triggering a gunfight that is going on."

Reports pouring in from the area said four militants are believed to be trapped in a residential house.

Locals told Xinhua over telephone that an exchange of fire has broke out and sound of bullets can be heard from distance.

Militants challenging New Delhi's rule in the restive region are fighting guerrilla war since 1989 with stationed Indian troops.

The gunfight between the two sides takes place intermittently. Enditem