Kashmir unrest: Union Minister Rajnath Singh postpones US trip

Following the Kashmir protests, Union home minister Rajnath Singh on 12 July postponed his visit to the United States, which was scheduled to begin from 17 July.

The Valley has remained tense since Friday last week as protests in several parts broke out following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani in an encounter. The protesters and police have been sparring relentlessly, which has led to 23 deaths.

During the monsoon session in Parliament, beginning on 18 July, Singh will brief the House on the violence.

"A decision was taken yesterday to postpone the visit in light of the overall situation. While J&K situation is being closely monitored by him, he also needs to be in Parliament to take members' queries on Burhan Wani's killing, outbreak of violent protest that have left two dozen dead so far and also the Pampore ambush that killed 8 CRPF personnel earlier," an official told The Times of India.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who returned from his four-nation tour on 12 July, is set to chair a high level meeting to review the situation in Kashmir, and to discuss the way forward.

Reportedly, Rajnath Singh and Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, along with other senior officials are likely to be part of the meeting.