Encounter Erupts in J&K’s Kishtwar Between Security Forces and Terrorists

Security forces, comprising the police, Army, and CRPF, initiated a search operation in Kishtwar district's Chatroo area after receiving intelligence about terrorists. An encounter erupted between the security personnel and terrorists on Wednesday. This incident occurred shortly after the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims departed from Jammu.

The gunfight began as security teams were conducting their search in the Kuchal area of Chatroo. The terrorists opened fire, leading to an ongoing exchange of gunfire. "Based on specific intelligence, a joint search operation was underway in Kanzal Mandu, Kishtwar. Contact has been established with the terrorists, and operations are in progress," stated the Jammu-based White Knight Corps on X (formerly Twitter).

Security Measures for Amarnath Yatra

Earlier today, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of Shri Amarnath Yatra pilgrims from Jammu. This marked the ceremonial beginning of the annual pilgrimage. In preparation for its official start on July 3, security has been heightened along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). Pilgrims will travel via both Baltal and Pahalgam routes.

Additional reinforcements have been deployed to strengthen the cordon and capture the terrorists, according to officials quoted by PTI. Initial reports suggest that two to three terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammed are trapped in the area.

Previous Encounters in Kishtwar

On April 9, an encounter began in Chhatru forest following intelligence about militant activity. Over several days, three JeM terrorists were neutralised, and a significant cache of arms was seized, including AK and M4 rifles.

A subsequent operation took place on May 22 in Singhpora area of Chatroo. This joint effort by Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF led to a fierce gunfight. One soldier lost his life while two others sustained injuries.

The areas where these previous encounters occurred are densely forested, making operations challenging for security forces.