Daijiworld Media Network - Kishtwar

Kishtwar, Feb 1: Security forces on Sunday resumed their cordon and search operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s snowbound Kishtwar district to track and neutralise three Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists believed to be hiding in the area following a brief gunbattle.

Authorities have heightened security in adjoining areas, with Village Defence Guards (VDGs) on alert to prevent any terrorist movement. “The search operation has been resumed this morning after a night-long cordon. Efforts are being made to hunt down the holed-up terrorists,” a senior official said.

The terrorists are reportedly changing hideouts frequently and are on the run. Security agencies are also monitoring individuals who may be providing them food or shelter.

The operation, ongoing for several days, involves Special Forces, Rashtriya Rifles, the Special Operations Group, and CRPF units, supported by aerial surveillance using drones and helicopters. Sniffer dogs have also been inducted since Saturday to aid the search.

The gunfight began on Saturday pre-dawn in the Dolgam area of Kishtwar, with reports indicating that one terrorist may have been injured, as drone surveillance showed bloodstains. This is the fourth encounter in two weeks, following previous operations in the Sonnar forest, Mali Dana, and Janseer-Kandiwar areas.

Mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended within a six-km radius covering Singhpora, Chingam, and Chatroo to maintain operational security.

Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma visited Kishtwar on Saturday to review the counter-terrorism grid and praised troops for their resolve amid challenging terrain and heavy snowfall exceeding two feet.

Kishtwar continues to witness frequent encounters as forces intensify action against Pakistan-based terrorists operating in the high-altitude region.