Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have ramped up a major counter-terrorism operation in the dense forests of Udhampur district, a day after a police constable made the supreme sacrifice during a gunfight. The operation aims to track down three terrorists believed to be hiding in the area.
Martyrdom of a Braveheart
The encounter was triggered on Monday evening in the Soan village of the Majalta area based on specific intelligence about terrorist presence. During the ensuing exchange of fire, Special Operations Group (SOG) Constable Amjad Ali Khan, a resident of Poonch, sustained critical injuries. Despite efforts to evacuate him, he succumbed to his wounds due to excessive blood loss.
In a tribute on social media platform X, the Jammu and Kashmir Police stated that Amjad "made the supreme sacrifice, whilst combatting Pakistani terrorists." A solemn wreath-laying ceremony was held at the district police lines on Tuesday, attended by senior officials including DGP Nalin Prabhat and IGP Bhim Sen Tuti.
Operation in Full Swing, Escape Routes Sealed
Jammu Zone Inspector General of Police, Bhim Sen Tuti, addressed the media on Tuesday, providing details of the ongoing mission. He confirmed that after the initial contact, the terrorists managed to flee into the thick forest cover. However, a swift response has been mounted to contain them.
"All possible escape routes have been sealed and a tight security cordon has been established," stated IGP Tuti. Additional forces, including a joint team of the SOG, Indian Army, and CRPF, have been deployed to the location. Sniffer dogs are also being utilized to track the militants in the challenging terrain. While unofficial sources suggest one terrorist might be injured, there is no official confirmation yet.
Strategic Area with History of Infiltration
The region of Basantgarh-Dudu in Udhampur is known for its difficult, hilly topography intersected by rivers. This has historically made it a favored route for terrorists infiltrating from Pakistan. After crossing the International Border in Kathua, they often use this corridor to move towards Doda, Kishtwar, and further into the Kashmir Valley.
This area has witnessed several security incidents in recent months:
- November 28: A joint search was launched in upper Basantgarh after reports of three suspected terrorists demanding food from a Bakerwal family.
- October 7: An operation was conducted in Dharni top area following local sightings of three suspicious individuals.
- June 26: A Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist was killed in Bihali, Basantgarh, with three associates trapped.
- April 24: Army Havaldar Jhantu Ali Sheikh was killed in an encounter in the Dudu-Basantgarh zone.
The current operation continues with heightened vigilance, as security forces remain determined to neutralize the threat in the forested hideouts of Udhampur.
