4 rebels, Indian soldier killed in Kashmir clashes

SRINAGAR, India — At least one paramilitary soldier and four suspected rebels were killed in a series of gunbattles in Indian-controlled Kashmir despite a security lockdown in the disputed region Monday as India celebrated the anniversary of its independence from British rule.

The Himalayan region has been under curfew for almost six weeks since the largest street protests in years erupted after Indian troops killed a top rebel leader, and security was tightened further in the week preceding India’s Independence Day.

The first clash took place in the Nowhatta neighborhood of Srinagar, Kashmir’s main city, when suspected rebels attacked troops on patrol to enforce the curfew.

At least 40 people were injured in clashes between rock-throwing protesters and government forces, who fired shotgun pellets and tear gas.