Encounter breaks out in south Kashmir

Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in Khudwani area of Kulgam district, 75 kms from here, following information about presence of three to four militants there, an army official said.

As the security forces were closing in on the militants, they opened fire.

"The cordon has been strengthened to prevent the militants from escaping. So far, there have been no casualties," the official said.