Kishtwar: Renewed Counter-Terror Operation Intensifies in the Upper Reaches

Kishtwar: After a brief night-long pause, security forces resumed an intensive counter-terror search operation in the remote upper reaches of the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The operation aims to neutralize a group of terrorists believed to be hiding in difficult mountainous terrain. Officials confirmed that the renewed effort began early Monday morning, taking advantage of daylight to improve visibility and movement in the dense forest region.

Background of the Ongoing Search Operation

The search operation was initially launched on Sunday in Sonnar village, located near the Mandral-Singhpora area of the Chatroo belt. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, joint teams of security forces moved into the area to track suspicious movement. During the operation, a brief but intense gunfight broke out when the hiding terrorists suddenly lobbed a grenade at the approaching forces. As a result, eight soldiers sustained injuries, most of them caused by splinters from the explosion. Officials clarified that the injuries were not life-threatening, and the affected personnel were given prompt medical attention.

Temporary Suspension Due to Terrain Challenges

Late Sunday night, the operation had to be temporarily suspended. The region is known for its extremely challenging geography, characterized by thick vegetation, narrow forest trails, and steep slopes. Limited visibility after dark and the risk of ambushes made continued movement unsafe. According to officials, halting the operation was a tactical decision to avoid unnecessary casualties and to regroup for a more coordinated effort at first light.

Multi-Agency Coordination and Use of Technology

With the resumption of the operation, multiple teams from the army, local police, and paramilitary units have been redeployed across the area. These teams are working in close coordination to maintain a tight security cordon. Advanced surveillance tools, including drones for aerial monitoring and sniffer dogs for ground tracking, are being used to detect any movement and possible escape routes. The objective is to ensure that the terrorists remain trapped within the cordoned zone and are unable to slip away under the cover of dense forest.

Suspected Terrorist Group and Current Situation

Officials believe that two to three terrorists are currently hiding in the operational area. Preliminary assessments suggest that they may be affiliated with a Pakistan-based terrorist outfit. Despite extensive combing, there has been no fresh contact with the terrorists since the initial exchange of fire. Authorities stated that such pauses are common in prolonged forest-based operations, as terrorists often change hideouts frequently to avoid detection.

Operation Trashi-I and Official Statements

The mission has been formally named Operation Trashi-I. In an official statement shared earlier, the army confirmed that contact with terrorists was established during a routine search operation carried out as part of ongoing joint counter-terror drills with the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Additional troops have since been inducted to reinforce the cordon, and coordination with civil administration and other security agencies has been strengthened. Senior officials praised the troops for their professionalism, discipline, and resilience while operating under extremely hostile terrain and weather conditions.

Pattern of Recent Terror Encounters in the Region

This incident marks the third encounter between security forces and terrorists in the Jammu region this year. Earlier engagements took place in forest areas of the Billawar sector in the Kathua district, where security forces faced armed resistance during search operations in January. These repeated incidents highlight a pattern of terrorists attempting to exploit forested belts and rugged terrain to evade capture.

Previous Incidents and Security Concerns

In another notable incident late last year, a police officer lost his life during an encounter in the Majalta area of the Udhampur district. In that case, the terrorists managed to escape by taking advantage of darkness and thick foliage. Following these events, security agencies launched large-scale counter-terror operations across multiple forest zones in the Jammu region to flush out hidden militants believed to have infiltrated earlier.

Heightened Vigil Ahead of National Celebrations

Security measures have been further intensified ahead of Republic Day celebrations. Intelligence agencies have reportedly received inputs suggesting renewed attempts by handlers across the border to push more terrorists into the region. In response, security forces are maintaining a high level of alert, increasing patrols, and strengthening checkpoints to ensure peaceful and secure celebrations.

Conclusion and Ongoing Developments

The situation in the upper reaches of Kishtwar remains dynamic. While no fresh contact has been reported so far, officials emphasized that the operation will continue until the area is fully sanitized. The focus remains on preventing terrorist movement, protecting civilian populations, and maintaining long-term stability in the region. Authorities have assured that further updates will be shared as the operation progresses.