A fierce gunfight in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir broke out between security forces and terrorists early Thursday morning. Acting on credible intelligence inputs, joint teams of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police launched a search operation in the upper reaches of Kishtwar’s forested areas.
According to officials, the encounter started around dawn in the remote area of Paddar. Security forces had been tracking the movement of suspected terrorists for the past two days. As the team moved in, they came under fire, triggering a heavy exchange of gunfire.
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The operation aims to neutralize multiple terrorists believed to be hiding in the dense forest. Forces have successfully surrounded them, cutting off escape routes. This encounter marks a renewed push by security agencies to root out militant threats from interior pockets of the Jammu region.
Security Forces Launch Coordinated Action in Kishtwar
The gunfight in Kishtwar is part of a wider counter-insurgency effort taking place across Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities confirmed that elite units of the Army and Special Operations Group (SOG) of the local police are leading the operation.
As the operation continues, reinforcements have reached the encounter site to prevent any breakout. Sources on the ground reported that at least three to four terrorists remain trapped. Forces have tightened the cordon and are advancing with caution due to the area’s challenging terrain.
A senior police officer involved in the operation stated, “We had specific input about militant presence in the area. Based on that, a systematic search was launched. The gunfight erupted when they opened fire on our search party.”
Despite difficult weather conditions, forces remain on high alert to ensure that none of the terrorists escape. The area has been sealed off, and aerial surveillance is assisting ground operations.
Previous Alerts and Intelligence Build-Up
The gunfight in Kishtwar did not emerge in isolation. For several weeks, intelligence agencies had been monitoring unusual movements in the region. This area, though once a terror hotspot, had seen relative peace in recent years.
However, recent signs of militant regrouping raised concern. Security agencies intercepted communication between handlers and local modules, suggesting an attempt to revive terrorism in parts of the Jammu region. The Kishtwar belt, with its tough terrain and proximity to mountain passes, provides ideal cover for infiltrators.
Officials believe the terrorists trapped in the ongoing operation may have crossed over from South Kashmir or arrived from across the border to revive sleeper cells. This makes the success of this operation critical to future peace in the region.
Strategic Importance of Kishtwar Operation
The gunfight in Kishtwar is being viewed as a strategic moment in the broader fight against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Though most terror activities occur in the Valley, incidents in Kishtwar and Rajouri have increased recently. These regions are now drawing greater attention from counter-insurgency planners.
By flushing out militants from remote forest belts, security forces aim to block their attempts at spreading violence to previously calm areas. A successful operation will not only neutralize a current threat but also dismantle the support network these groups rely on.
Officials have also stressed the need to eliminate such threats before the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. Ensuring the safety of religious pilgrims and local residents remains a top priority for the administration.
Civilian Safety Measures and Communication Control
In light of the gunfight in Kishtwar, authorities have issued advisories to nearby villagers, asking them to stay indoors. Schools in the affected zone have remained closed for the day, and internet services may be temporarily suspended to avoid the spread of rumors.
Police and army officials are working closely to prevent collateral damage. They have ensured that no civilians are near the active zone of the encounter. Medical teams and ambulances have been stationed in case of emergencies.
These preemptive measures highlight the professionalism and preparedness of security forces during high-risk operations.
The ongoing gunfight in Kishtwar represents a critical counter-terror operation aimed at neutralizing threats before they escalate. With multiple terrorists trapped and no civilian casualties reported so far, the operation showcases the effectiveness of joint security efforts.
The coming hours remain crucial as forces push forward under challenging terrain and conditions. However, with firm intelligence, local support, and high morale, security agencies remain confident of a successful outcome.
This encounter sends a strong message to terrorist groups and their handlers—Jammu and Kashmir’s remote regions will no longer offer safe havens.