Two major operations against militants in north Kashmir have left three army men and one militant dead so far. The gunfights are still on and a chopper has been put into service to track the hiding militants at one encounter site.
A group of militants are believed hiding in the dense bushes at Tilpatren area, in Hafruda forests of Handwara district, more than 55 km away from Srinagar.
Preliminary reports suggest the army has been searching for the militants for about two days. Sources said a contact between militants and security forces was established on Sunday night.
Initial reports suggest three army men have been killed and another is missing. A defence spokesman has confirmed the death of three soldiers.
More reinforcements have been sent to the area to kill the hiding militants.
In adjacent district of Kupwara, one militant has been killed in an ongoing operation in Lolab area.