Gunfight on in Kashmir, protesters clash with security forces

A fierce gunfight between security forces and militants was on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district even as local protesters clashed with the security men to disrupt the operation and thrashed a paramilitary trooper, police said.

Security forces surrounded Hafoo Nazneenpora village in Tral area following reports about militants hiding there, police said here.

"As the security forces closed on the hiding militants, they came under heavy automatic gunfire which was returned, leading to a gunfight," a police officer said, adding that some top militants active in south Kashmir areas are among the trapped militants.

Youth meanwhile resorted to heavy stone pelting at the security forces, and even a Central Reserve Police Force constable was beaten by the mob and his service rifle snatched.

The injured constable has been shifted to hospital.

The operation against the militants was on as of 8.30 p.m., police said.

--IANS

sq/vd