An encounter broke out today in Kishtwar’s forests between the Indian Army and a group of terrorists, keeping the region on edge. The clash started early morning when troops spotted suspicious movement in a remote wooded area, leading to a firefight that’s still going. Officials say it’s an ongoing operation based on solid tips, with the Army cordoning off the spot to flush out the militants. No casualties reported yet, but the area is sealed, and locals are asked to stay clear.
Kishtwar, in Jammu’s Chenab Valley, has seen a few such incidents lately, with security forces stepping up patrols after August’s rains made hiding spots trickier. The Army’s White Knight Corps is leading the effort, using drones and ground teams to track the group, believed to be three or four strong. A spokesperson from the Northern Command said the operation is precise to avoid civilian harm, but it’s tense with the dense trees giving cover. This comes after a similar standoff in Doda-Udhampur last week, where one soldier was injured.
For Kishtwar’s villagers, these clashes bring worry – schools close, and daily life pauses as roads get checked. The floods already strained things, with damaged paths making access harder. Security experts say these operations are part of a larger push to secure the border areas, but they disrupt normalcy. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted support for the forces, calling for quick resolution. The Army’s urging people to report suspicious activity, and the operation could wrap up soon if the militants are cornered. Jammu’s staying vigilant – these moments remind us of the challenges in keeping peace.