Militants
have attacked an army base in Indian-administered Kashmir, killing at least 17
soldiers, the army says.
Four of the
attackers were killed, an army officer told the BBC. Carrying guns and
grenades
they stormed a base in Uri, close to the Line of Control with Pakistan in a
pre-dawn ambush.
The incident
is the most deadly in the disputed region in recent years.
It comes as
violent protests against Indian rule in Kashmir continue, with a strict curfew
now in place.
More than 80
people, nearly all anti-government protesters, have died in more than two
months of violence.
A search is
under way for other militants believed to be hiding in the area, according to
the army.
"We
salute the sacrifice of 17 soldiers who were martyred in the operation," a
statement said.
The militants
infiltrated across the Line of Control from Pakistan before attacking the base,
west of Srinagar, the army officer said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Gunfire and
explosions were heard for several hours.
Many tents and
temporary shelters caught fire during the attack, according to the army's
Northern Command.
Disputed
Kashmir is claimed in its entirety by both India and Pakistan and has been a
flashpoint for more than 60 years, causing two wars between the neighbours.
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