The toll in the Kashmir clashes rose to 42 on Tuesday after a woman succumbed to her injuries in hospital, even as a curfew remained in force in the Valley for the 11th straight day. PTI reported that Neelofar was injured in retaliatory firing on Monday after protestors pelted stones at an Army vehicle in Qazigund in south Kashmir. Two other persons were killed and seven others injured in the clash, which the Army called a "regretful" event, reported Hindustan Times.

“The Army deeply regrets the unfortunate loss of life in the incident at Churat, Qaziund, where the troops were forced to open fire when a large mob turned violent,” said an Army statement. The police also corroborated the Army's version, adding that the incident took place when an army mobile domination patrol party tried to clear a road blockade.

Meanwhile, separatist leaders have extended their strike till July 22. However, they have announced a relaxation for half a day, from 2 pm onward on July 21, reported PTI. Police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed across the Valley to implement the prohibitory orders.

Kashmir is yet to return to normal life, as mobile phones and internet services remain suspended while newspapers fail to hit the stands for the fourth day. The Amarnath Yatra was suspended for the third time. Protests started after security personnel gunned down Hizbul Majahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8.