India: Security operation launched in Kashmir August 29 /update 1

Event

Indian security forces launched a cordon and search operation targeting suspected Islamist militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on the morning (local time) of Wednesday, August 29. Gunfire reportedly broke out between security personnel and militants in the village of Muniward. According to local media sources, mobile internet service has been temporarily suspended in the area of the operation. Initial reports indicate that at least two militants were killed in the fighting and weapons were recovered.

Context

Clashes between security forces and militants also broke out in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district on August 24. Insurgents (locals or Pakistani nationals) have been fighting Indian rule in Jammu and Kashmir since 1989. Some 70,000 people have died and many more have been injured in related violence, uprisings, and military crackdowns.

Advice

As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably areas along the Line of Control (LoC), due to the significant risk of violence.