Security Forces Engage Militants in High-Stakes Operations Across Jammu Region
Jammu & Kashmir, 10 April 2025: A Day of Tension and Action
A day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah concluded his three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, two intense encounters erupted in the mountainous districts of Udhampur and Kishtwar. Security forces launched operations on Wednesday following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in these areas. The encounters have heightened tensions in the region, with reports indicating that multiple militants are trapped.
Details of the Encounters
- Udhampur Encounter:
- The operation began in the Jopher locality of Ramnagar in Udhampur district after security forces received credible intelligence about the presence of three militants.
- As the forces advanced, the militants opened fire, triggering a fierce gunfight.
- Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amod Ashok Nagpure confirmed that the militants are believed to be part of a group that recently infiltrated the region.
- The dense forest and rugged terrain have made the operation challenging, but additional reinforcements, including drones and specialized units, have been deployed to ensure success.
- Kishtwar Encounter:
- Simultaneously, another encounter broke out in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district.
- Security forces cordoned off the Naidgam forest area after receiving intelligence about the presence of two militants.
- The militants are reportedly using the dense forest cover to evade capture, but the area remains under a tight security cordon.
Militant Activity and Security Measures
Both groups of militants are suspected to belong to the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit and are believed to have recently infiltrated from Pakistan. They are reportedly equipped with sophisticated weapons, including AK-series rifles.
The encounters come amid a broader crackdown on militant activity in the Jammu region. Security forces have intensified search operations in recent weeks, with multiple encounters reported in Kathua and Rajouri districts. On March 27, a similar operation in Kathua resulted in the deaths of two militants and four policemen.
High-Level Security Review
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during his recent visit, chaired a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar. The meeting, attended by top officials from the Army, paramilitary forces, and intelligence agencies, emphasized the need to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Efforts
The twin encounters have sparked concern among local residents, who remain on high alert as operations continue. Security forces have urged the public to cooperate and report any suspicious activity.
As the operations progress, the focus remains on neutralizing the militants and ensuring the safety of civilians in the affected areas.