SRINAGAR, Dec 16: Three people were killed in separatist violence in Indian-held Kashmir, police said on Tuesday, as rebels warned Muslim youths not to join the Indian army, which has stepped up recruitment.

Two Muslim militants and a civilian were killed in two gunbattles overnight in districts of Rajouri and Poonch, police said. Another civilian was injured in crossfire.

Meanwhile, a spokesman for Hizbul Mujahedin warned youth not to join the Indian army, which remains a popular career choice in the province.

“Anybody found responsible for any sabotage of the freedom struggle will be dealt with accordingly,” he was quoted as saying by the Greater Kashmir daily.—AFP