India: Clashes in Jammu and Kashmir kill four April 1 /update 1

Event

Security forces reportedly clashed with militants in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir state on Monday, April 1, resulting in the deaths of four militants. Three soldiers were also reportedly wounded in the fighting, which occurred in the Lassipora area of Pulwama district. The affiliation of the militants is not known as of 09:00 (local time). Further security operations and fighting between armed groups and security forces is likely in the coming weeks and months.

Context

Separatists have been fighting Indian rule in Kashmir since 1989. Some 70,000 people have died and many more have been injured in related violence, uprisings, and military crackdowns.

JeM recently claimed responsibility for a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED) attack in Pulwama district (Jammu and Kashmir state) on February 14, killing at least 40 Indian paramilitary officers. India has accused Pakistan of supporting the attackers. It was the deadliest terrorist attack in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

Advice

Individuals in Kashmir are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

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