Terrorism – Anantnag Crackdown Intensifies After Policeman Killed in Targeted Attack

Terrorism –Security agencies intensified operations across Jammu and Kashmir following the killing of a police head constable, with authorities launching a series of actions aimed at dismantling the infrastructure linked to terrorist networks.

The security situation in south Kashmir remained tense on Thursday as authorities demolished the houses of two alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives in Anantnag district, a day after a police head constable was shot dead while on patrol. Officials described the move as part of an ongoing campaign targeting individuals and facilities believed to be connected with terrorist activities in the region.

Action Taken Against Suspected Terror Operatives

According to official sources, the overnight operation focused on the residences of Aadil Hussain Thokar from Guree in Bijbehara and Haroon Ganai from Hassanpora, both located in Anantnag district. The demolition followed the fatal attack on a police officer at Lal Chowk in Anantnag town.

Officials noted that Thokar’s residence had previously been demolished after the Pahalgam Baisaran terror incident. A newly built structure at the same location was also brought down during the latest operation. Ganai’s residence in Hassanpora was similarly demolished as part of the security measures undertaken by the authorities.

The administration has maintained that such actions are aimed at weakening the logistical and operational support systems available to terrorist organisations active in the region.

Policeman Killed During Patrol Duty

The slain officer was identified as Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi of the 3rd Battalion of the Armed Police. He was carrying out routine patrol duties when terrorists opened fire, resulting in his death.

Qureshi hailed from the Beerwah area of Budgam district. His death has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders and the security establishment, highlighting the continuing threat posed by militant groups despite sustained counterterrorism efforts.

Leaders Condemn the Attack

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha strongly denounced the killing and stated that those responsible would face the full force of the law. In a message shared publicly, he assured that the perpetrators would be identified and brought to justice.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the attack, expressing sympathy for the bereaved family while reiterating support for the security forces engaged in maintaining peace and stability across Jammu and Kashmir.

Final Tribute to the Fallen Officer

A wreath-laying ceremony was organised at the District Police Lines in Anantnag, where senior police officials, fellow personnel and civil administration representatives paid their respects to the fallen officer.

Later, the head constable was laid to rest in his native town in Budgam district. Hundreds of residents attended the funeral, while many others visited the family to offer condolences and express solidarity during their time of grief.

Investigation Expands as Security Measures Tighten

The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility for the attack. Indian authorities identify the outfit as an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has been designated as a terrorist organisation by the United Nations.

Security officials say the group emerged after the 2019 constitutional changes related to Jammu and Kashmir and has been associated with several targeted attacks in the region. While it presents itself using a different identity, investigators maintain that it operates with links to established militant networks.

Following the latest incident, police detained more than 3,000 suspected overground workers across multiple districts in the Kashmir Valley as part of an extensive investigation. A red alert has also been issued, and security agencies have launched a large-scale search operation to trace those involved in the killing. Additional checkpoints, surveillance and area domination exercises have been intensified as authorities continue efforts to prevent further attacks.