SRINAGAR: Protests against Indian rule erupted at many places in Kashmir on Wednesday after authorities lifted a curfew throughout the disputed Himalayan region for the first time in 54 days. A young man was killed and several others were injured in clashes between rock-throwing protesters and government forces.

Residents said a protest erupted in northern Nadihal village after troops prevented trucks carrying fruit from entering the area. They said police and soldiers also beat up residents and ransacked homes in the village.

A police officer said government forces tried to stop protesters from marching on the main village street and retaliated by firing bullets and shotgun pellets when residents hurled rocks at them. He said one man was killed and five others were wounded, three of them critically.

Protests demanding an end to Indian rule were also reported in other places in the region, including the main city of Srinagar. At least 20 people were reported injured.

Despite the lifting of the curfew, shops and schools remained closed because of a protest strike called by leaders challenging India’s sovereignty over India-held Kashmir.

Published in Dawn September 1st, 2016