SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, July 19 (Xinhua) -- A policeman serving as personal security officer (PSO) of a pro-India Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader was shot dead by militants Friday in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir.

The policeman was attacked in Bijbehara town of Anantnag district, about 44 km south of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"Militants today shot dead PSO of PDP leader Sajad Mufti at Baba Mohalla in Bijbehara," a police official posted in Anantnag told Xinhua. "Though he was removed to Bijbehara hospital, however, the doctors there declared him brought dead."

According to police, the policeman was standing guard outside mosque, where Sajjad Mufti had gone to offer Friday afternoon congregational prayers.

Sajad Mufti is cousin of former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and lives in Bijbehara.

Reports said the militants also snatched the service rifle of the slain policeman and escaped form the spot. However, police are yet to confirm the weapon snatching in the attack.

So far, no militant outfit has claimed the responsibility.

Kashmir, the Himalayan region divided between India and Pakistan, is claimed by both in full. Since their independence from Britain, the two countries have fought three wars, two exclusively over Kashmir.