Anti-terror operation in Kulgam enters 8th day

The anti-terror operation in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its eighth day on Friday, with officials stating that all efforts are underway to eliminate the trained terrorists believed to be hiding in the dense forests.

The operation, one of the longest in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years, began last week in the Akhal area of Kulgam. It is a joint effort involving the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG), the Army, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

According to official sources, the challenging topography—marked by steep slopes and thick forests—has necessitated a cautious and calculated approach to avoid casualties among the security personnel. Drones and helicopters have been deployed to assist in locating the terrorists, while para commandos are also supporting ground forces in the operation.

So far, six security personnel have sustained injuries, and one militant has been killed.

Officials said the remaining terrorists appear to be highly trained and continue to engage security forces sporadically from within the forested terrain.

Initial intelligence inputs had suggested that at least five militants were holed up in the region when the operation commenced. The militants have since been intermittently engaging with the troops, including the Army’s elite units.

Authorities have also relocated several civilians from the Akhal area to safer locations as a precautionary measure. Some residents have reported facing hardships due to the prolonged security operation in the area.

Top security officials, including Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15 Corps, Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava, have visited the encounter site to review the progress of the operation. Earlier this week, Army’s Northern Commander, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, also visited South Kashmir and was briefed on the ongoing efforts.