India: Protests in Kashmir follow killing of shepherd on September 27 /update 2

Event

Protests erupted in Jammu and Kashmir following the death of a shepherd in the Qamarwari area of Srinagar on Thursday, September 27, after he was reportedly shot by Indian security forces. Hundreds of people in Srinagar and other areas reportedly participated in protests, resulting in violent clashes between protesters and security forces. Continued protests and a heightened security presence are likely. Additionally, other fighting on Thursday between security forces and militants led to the death of two militants in Panzan and one soldier and one militant in a village in southern Qazigund.

Context

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. The Indian government has been conducting several security operations in the region recently and temporarily suspended mobile internet services on Tuesday, September 25.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate travel disruptions, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably including areas along the Line of Control (LoC), due to the significant risk of violence.