Kashmir: 2 killed in clashes with security forces; toll mounts to 75

SRINAGAR: Two youths were today killed during clashes between security forces and protesters in south Kashmir, taking the death toll in the ongoing unrest in the Valley to 75.

Sayar Ahmad Sheikh was hit by a tear smoke shell in the head at Tukroo when security personnel were trying to disperse a group of stone-pelting protestors, a police official said.

Restrictions are in place in the area under Section 144 of CrPC, which prohibits assembly of four or more people.

The official said Sheikh was rushed to the sub-district hospital at Rajpora where doctors declared him brought dead.

Another youth, Yawar Bhat, died in security forces' action after protestors indulged in stone pelting at Botengoo in Anantnag district, the official said.

Bhat sustained pellet injuries during the clashes, he said.

With this, the toll in the unrest has now risen to 75.

Several other persons were injured in the two incidents. Clashes were also reported from the old city area and Budgam district, where at least a dozen people have been injured, he said.

The situation across the Valley continues to be tense, he added.