India: 11 killed during clashes in Pulwama (Kashmir) Dec. 15

Event

On Saturday, December 15, Indian security forces clashed with gunmen in the village of Sirnoo in Pulwama district (Jammu and Kashmir state). According to reports, seven civilians were killed in the incident along with three militants and one soldier. Security forces have cordoned off the area and Internet services have temporarily been suspended in Pulwama as a precaution. Further details are still emerging.

Context

Insurgents 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. Recently, the Indian government has conducted several security operations in the region amid rising tensions and sporadic violence.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate telecommunication 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.