Security forces successfully neutralized a terrorist during an intense firefight in the Budgam district on Friday. The joint operation was executed by the Indian Army in close coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Srinagar sector CRPF. The development was officially confirmed by the Indian Army Chinar Corps through a post on X. According to officials, the anti-terrorist operation had originally commenced on Thursday following specific intelligence inputs.
Intelligence input and launch of Operation Ashdar
The security operation was initiated after authorities received credible intelligence regarding the movement of a suspicious group of terrorists traveling from Pakharpora in Pulwama district towards Yusmarg in Budgam. Based on these actionable intelligence inputs, the security apparatus launched a joint search operation in the Ashdar Gali area of Budgam, designated as Operation Ashdar. During the sweep, alert personnel noticed suspicious movements and challenged the hidden operatives.
Firefight and tactical recoveries
Instead of surrendering, the trapped operatives opened direct fire on the approaching security personnel, triggering a fierce gunbattle. In the ensuing exchange of fire, one terrorist was killed. Following the clash, security forces conducted a thorough sweep of the engagement site and recovered an AK rifle along with other war-like stores and ammunition. Authorities confirmed that the broader search operation in the region remains active and ongoing.
Advisory issued for tourists and public safety
Given that the ongoing operations are concentrated near Doodhpathri, local authorities have issued a precautionary advisory urging tourists and visitors to stay away from the popular destination until further notice. The identity of the slain terrorist has not yet been officially released to the public. This high-profile encounter comes after several months of relative calm and peaceful conditions across the valley.
Widespread cordon across the Pir Panjal ranges
Security grid forces are currently conducting expansive search operations across the dense forests of the Pir Panjal mountain range. These heavily forested terrains extend across the districts of Poonch, Rajouri, Baramulla, Pulwama, and Shopian. Officials stated that additional reinforcements have been deployed across strategic locations to tighten the security cordon and prevent any fleeing militants from escaping the targeted zones.
