Srinagar: Intense clashes between civilians and government forces have erupted in Handwara area of the northern Kashmir’s Kupwara district where government forces and militants are engaged in a fierce gunfight.

According to the sources, Hizbul Mujahideen top commander, Manan Wani is among the trapped  militants

Reports said that scores of men, women and children hit the streets in Shotgund village of Handwara and pelted stones on government forces in a bid to foil their anti-militancy operation.

“The government forces lobbed tear smoke shells to disperse the protesters. This led to the outbreak of fierce clashes,” reports said.

Two to three militants are believed to be trapped in the village where encounter is going on.