Fresh Encounter breaks out in J&K’s Kishtwar as Anti-terror operation continues

A fresh exchange of fire broke out on Thursday between security forces and terrorists during an ongoing counter-terror operation in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, officials said.

The renewed gunfight occurred in the dense forest area of Singhpora in the Chatroo belt , where security forces re-established contact with militants believed to be hiding in the rugged terrain. Heavy firing was underway between the two sides when last reports were received, officials said, adding that efforts were continuing to neutralise the terrorists and prevent their escape.

The operation, codenamed Operation Trashi-I , was launched on Sunday following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in Sonnar village near Mandral-Singhpora . When troops moved in to carry out a cordon and search operation, they came under fire, triggering a prolonged encounter.

During the initial clash, one Army paratrooper from the elite Special Forces lost his life , while seven other soldiers sustained injuries , mostly due to grenade splinters. The injured personnel were evacuated for medical treatment, and additional reinforcements were rushed to the area to strengthen the cordon.

On Monday , security forces unearthed a major terrorist hideout close to the encounter site. The hideout, located deep inside the forested mountains, was found stocked with food supplies and daily-use items, indicating that the terrorists had prepared for a long stay in the area. Following the discovery, several local residents were detained for questioning to ascertain possible logistical or overground support provided to the militants.

Officials said the terrorists are believed to be operating in a group of two to three and are suspected to be affiliated with the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit. The difficult terrain, thick forest cover and adverse weather conditions have posed challenges to the operation, slowing down movement and visibility.

Security forces, including the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and paramilitary units, have deployed drones, sniffer dogs and additional surveillance measures to tighten the noose around the militants. All possible escape routes have been sealed, and the area continues to remain under a strict security cordon.

The operation is taking place amid heightened security across the Union Territory ahead of Republic Day celebrations , with authorities maintaining high alert to prevent any potential terror activity.

Officials said the situation remains fluid and no fresh casualty figures have been confirmed so far. The operation will continue until the area is fully sanitised, they added.