SRINAGAR, INDIA: Officials say four rebels and an Indian army commando have been killed fighting in disputed Kashmir, triggering anti-India protests and clashes in the restive region.

Army spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia says fighting began early Tuesday after police and soldiers cordoned off a village on a tip that militants were hiding in a civilian house.

Police said one soldier from India's special forces unit was killed and two soldiers injured in the fighting.

As the news of the rebels' killing spread, hundreds of villagers seeking an end to Indian rule hit the streets to show solidarity with militants, sparking clashes with government forces.

At least four women were injured when troops fired bullets, shotgun pellets and tear gas to confront stone-throwing protesters.

Kashmir is divided between rivals India and Pakistan.