27 Aug 2008

One dead as Kashmir protesters defy curfew

2:00 pm on 27 August 2008

Police have shot dead at least one Muslim separatist demonstrator in the disputed region of Kashmir as they face some of biggest protests in two decades against India's rule.

Another dozen people were injured when police fired bullets and tear gas at demonstrators in the city of Srinagar.

Police have also arrested three prominent separatist leaders just hours before a big rally planned in protest against Indian rule.

Police have killed at least 25 Muslim protesters and more than 500 have been injured in clashes in two weeks of demonstrations in Kashmir Valley after a land dispute between Muslims and Hindus escalated into massive demonstrations.

The crisis has strained relations between India and Pakistan, both of which claim the region in full but rule it in parts.