Kishtwar: Fresh Clashes Resume in as Security Forces Track Militants
Kishtwar: Security operations intensified again in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Saturday after joint security forces re-established contact with militants hiding in Dolgam village. The renewed exchange of fire comes nearly two weeks after the operation was first launched, marking a significant development in a long-running counterterrorism effort in the region.
Contact Re-Established After Extended Search
According to official sources, the encounter resumed in the early hours after security personnel successfully traced the militants’ movement in Dolgam village. The operation involves coordinated action by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force, who had been conducting sustained search efforts since mid-January.
The Army’s Nagrota-based White Knight Corps confirmed the development through a statement on its official social media account, noting that actionable intelligence gathered from multiple sources helped troops re-establish contact. A security cordon has been put in place around the area, and combing operations are continuing.
Operation Trashi-I Remains Ongoing
The counterterrorism mission, codenamed Operation Trashi-I, was initiated earlier this month following specific intelligence inputs about militant presence in the region. Officials said the operation is being carried out in a phased manner to ensure civilian safety while maintaining pressure on the militants.
Security personnel have been maintaining round-the-clock vigilance across forested and mountainous terrain, which has historically provided cover for militant movement. Authorities said the renewed encounter reflects the persistence of forces despite difficult conditions.
Exchange of Fire in Dolgam Village
Heavy firing was reported early Saturday as joint forces closed in on the suspected hideout in Dolgam. Officials said the exchange involved small arms fire, though details regarding casualties or damage were not immediately available.
The area remains under tight security, with movement restrictions imposed to prevent civilian harm. Residents in nearby villages have been advised to stay indoors as the operation continues.
Preventive Internet Suspension in Area
As a precautionary measure, authorities suspended mobile internet services across a wider area surrounding the encounter site on Friday. Officials said the step was taken to prevent the spread of misinformation and to safeguard operational security during the ongoing action.
Temporary communication restrictions have been used in previous operations in the region and are reviewed periodically based on the evolving ground situation.
Background of the January 18 Encounter
The current phase of the operation follows an earlier encounter on January 18, when joint forces engaged militants during a search operation in the Sonnar area, northeast of Chatroo in Kishtwar district. That encounter lasted several hours and marked the beginning of Operation Trashi-I.
During the initial exchange of fire, an Army paratrooper lost his life. The incident underscored the risks faced by security personnel operating in high-threat zones.
Army Pays Tribute to Fallen Paratrooper
Following the January 18 encounter, the Army paid tribute to Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces, who was killed while executing the counterterrorism mission. In a message shared the next day, senior Army officials acknowledged his courage and sacrifice, expressing solidarity with his family.
The tribute highlighted his role in the operation and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to continuing efforts against militancy in the region.
Continued Operations and Awaited Updates
After the January encounter, joint forces continued intensive search operations for nearly twelve days, eventually tracking the militants to Dolgam village. Officials said the sustained effort demonstrates the forces’ resolve to neutralize threats and restore security.
Further details from the encounter site are awaited as operations remain underway. Authorities said updates will be shared once the situation becomes clearer and assessments are completed.