Schools, colleges closed; Internet services censored
Srinagar: Gunfight broke out between militants and the armed forces in Fateh Kadal area of Downtown Srinagar early Wednesday.
Reports said a joint team of the state police and the CRPF cordoned off Fateh Kadal after “specific information” about presence of some militants, following which a gunfight started.
Two militants, and a policeman were killed in the gunfight, police said.
An official said that the forces cordoned off the Fateh Kadal area of the city following specific inputs about the presence of militants in a house.
He said the militants opened fire on the forces as they approached the suspected house. “The forces retaliated, triggering a gunfight,” he said, adding that a policeman, identified as Kamal from Reasi died in the initial shootout.
He said two militants and the son of the house owner were killed in the gunfight. “The exchange of fire has stopped but searches are underway,” said the official.
The identity of the slain was being ascertained, he said. However, top Lashkar commander Mehraj Bangroo is believed to be among the slain militants.
All educational institutions have been closed. Classwork also remains suspended at the Kashmir University (KU), Hazratbal. A varsity spokesperson said the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure.
Internet services have been suspended in Srinagar.
