3rd LD Writethru: 3 Indian para-military troopers killed in militant attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir

At least three Indian paramilitary troopers and a civilian were killed and 10 other people injured Saturday in a gunfight between militants and security forces in Indian-controlled Kashmir's Pulwama district, said officials.

The gunfight ensued after the militants attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) bus on the Jammu-Srinagar highway and then entered a training institute located nearby, said a police officer.

"Militants attacked a CRPF bus on the Jammu-Srinagar highway near Pampore town in Pulwama district today evening," a senior police officer told the media.

"Eleven CRPF troopers travelling in the bus were injured in the attack. Three of the injured troopers identified as head constable G.D. Bhola Prasad of the 144 Battalion, constable-driver R.K. Raina of the 79 Battalion and one more succumbed to their injuries while other injured are being treated in the hospital," he added.

After attacking the CRPF bus, the militants believed to be three in number, entered the multi-storeyed Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) building situated close to the highway when more than 150 trainees and staff members were present inside, the official said.

"Security forces surrounded the building and focused on safe evacuation of the civilians while engaging the holed-up militants in sustained exchange of gunfire. So far, 150 trainees and staff members have been safely evacuated," said the official.

"After we make sure there are no civilians inside the complex, the final assault against the holed-up militants will be launched," the official added. Endit