India: Militants killed in Kashmir valley Oct. 8-9

Event

Multiple clashes occurred between Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) militants and Indian military forces on Sunday, October 8, and Monday, October 9, leaving at least four militants and one Indian soldier dead. The various operations in the Kashmir Valley took place in Sopore, Keller, and Drang, and led to the death of the JeM commander responsible for the October 3 attack on a Kashmir border security camp.

Further clashes are possible in the coming days.

Context

Kashmir's security forces have been under increased pressure in recent months as militants have stepped up attacks on police and military forces. JeM seeks to separate Kashmir from India and bring the territory under Pakistan's rule. The group has carried out a number of attacks against Indian security forces in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Kashmir region has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British rule in 1947. Both claim the territory in its entirety.

Advice

Some foreign governments advise against travel to parts of Jammu and Kashmir, in particular the border region with Pakistan, due to the high threat of terrorism and other violence.