Several die in Kashmir fighting

Seven killed as government forces battle armed separatists in troubled region.

Soldier in Indian-administered Kashmir
Indian security forces are often attacked in Kashmir[GALLO/GETTY]

Fighting erupted after Indian forces conducting a search operation inside a forest came under fire, Colonel D K Kachari, an Indian army spokesman, said.

Both India and Pakistan claim Kashmir, which has been a disputed territory since the two countries gained independence from Britain in 1947.

The region has also witnessed violent uprisings against Indian rule since early 1990s. Despite Indian attempts to quell violence, the conflict rages, killing more than 68,000 people till date.

Source: News Agencies