Three lose lives in Kashmir violence

SRINAGAR, India, Dec 19 (AFP): Indian forces shot dead two suspected rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir in clashes that also killed a young woman, police said Tuesday, as the deadliest year of the decade in the disputed territory draws to a close.

At least 210 militants have been killed this year-the most since 2010 -- amid a military campaign to rout armed groups resisting Indian rule in the divided Himalayan region.

In addition, 57 civilians and 78 security personnel have also lost their lives in violence across the conflict-wracked valley, according to police officials and watchdogs.

In the latest clash, two suspected militants were shot dead in a firefight that began Monday evening in southern Shopian district, inspector general of police Munir Ahmed Khan told AFP.

Hundreds of Kashmiris rushed to the scene chanting anti-India slogans and hurling stones at the troops in protests that continued raging Tuesday morning.

Police opened fire with pellet guns, hospitalising 12 people. A soldier and a police officer were also wounded during the clashes.