4 troopers, 2 militants killed in Indian-controlled Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir - Four troopers including an officer and two militants were killed Monday in a fierce gunfight in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir, officials said.

The gunfight broke out early Monday at village Pinglan of Pulwama district, about 30 km south of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"In a gunfight that broke out here early today two militants were killed," Srinagar based Indian army spokesperson Col Rajesh Kalia told Xinhua. "While fighting these militants three army troopers and an officer of the rank of major were also killed."

The identity of the slain militant was being ascertained.

According to police, contingents of army and paramilitary cordoned off the village on specific intelligence information suggesting presence of militants.

"No sooner the government forces zeroed in on suspected area, the militants present there fired upon the advanced contingent wounding four personnel, who later succumbed," a police official said.

Unconfirmed reports said a civilian was also killed in the gunfight.

The gunfight comes four days after a suicide bomber carried out a car bomb blast targeting paramilitary convoy in the district, killing at least 40 troopers.

Internet service in the district have been suspended and roads leading to the village have been closed.

Reports said civilians have started assembling outside the village and clashes have broke out between locals and government forces.

A guerilla war is going on between militants and Indian troops stationed in the region since 1989.