Professor's killing is an answer to those who feel jobs are a solution to Kashmir alienation: Omar

"Sadly this is also an answer to those who claim jobs & development are the solution to the violence & alienation in Kashmir. This is another tragic development in a steady stream of tragedies in Kashmir.," Abdullah tweeted.

Rafi Bhat, a 33-year-old professor on contract with the Kashmir University's Sociology department, was missing since Friday and was killed during the encounter.

Security forces eliminated five militants of Hizb outfit including its top Hizb Commander and missing  Kashmir university Assistant Professor in a fierce gun battle at Badigam area of south Kashmir's Shopian district.

According to sources, after receiving inputs about the presence of some militants hiding in Badigam village of Shopian,  44RR of army, Special Operation Group of Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF laid siege around the area and sealed all entry and exit points leading to the area .

"When search party approached towards the suspected houses, suddenly a quantum of fire came from militants which led to fierce gunfight," said police officer .

In the initial firefight, one SOG personnel of Jammu and Kashmir Police, Anil Kumar, and army soldier of 44 RR were injured.

Both were shifted to Srinagar army hospital for treatment and reports said both are critical.

Soon intense clashes rocked the area and one civilian suffered injuries and was hospitalized.