This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
On July 1, 2020, a violent confrontation between rebels and security forces in the northern town of Sopore, Indian-administered Kashmir, left a civilian dead and sparked widespread protests.
A photo of the child sitting on the chest of his dead grandfather, Bashir Ahmed Khan, was widely shared on social media, with locals alleging that Khan was dragged out of his car and shot dead by paramilitary troopers.
However, paramilitary spokesman Junaid Khan denied the allegations, calling them 'baseless.'
Police also denied the claims, stating that legal action would be taken against those responsible for 'false reports and rumours.'
Inspector General of Police Vijay Kumar further stated that there was no retaliation from the security forces.
Since January, at least 229 people have been killed during over 100 military operations across Indian-administered Kashmir, including 32 civilians, 54 government forces, and 143 rebels, according to the Coalition of Civil Society (JKCCS), a rights group.
Rebels have been fighting Indian rule in the Himalayan region for more than three decades to back demands for independence or a merger with Pakistan.
