Locals said that forces vandalised properties and beat up family members of militants during the operation launched in the area early today.

An uncle of militant Saddam Padder has been hit in the head, they said, adding that he received several stitches in the wound, the report said.

This angered the youth who started throwing stones at the government forces which was retaliated by forces by firing tear gas shells and pellets.

At least 20 civilians were injured with pellets during the clashes, reports said.

“One of the injured has been hit by pellets in his eye. He was shifted to District Hospital Pulwama where from he was referred to a hospital in Srinagar,” the report said.

Police have denied the reports of thrashing of families of the militants.