Police and anti-India protesters clashed in Indian-controlled Kashmir on Monday, with several people injured.

The violence broke out in the towns of Sopore and Anantnag as people marked the Muslim festival of Eid-al-Adha with prayers.

Witnesses said security forces tried to prevent worshippers, mostly young people, from holding demonstrations against Indian rule. The young people then began throwing stones at police and paramilitary troops.

Security forces used batons and tear gas to disperse the protesters.

At least 17 people, including security personnel, were injured in the clashes.

Similar violence was also reported in Kashmir's main town of Srinagar.

Kashmir is divided between India and Pakistan and claimed in full by both.

Muslim separatists have been fighting for the region's independence from Hindu-majority India or a merger with Muslim-majority Pakistan.

The more than two decade insurgency has killed thousands of people.