Kulgam, Aug 8: The longest-running encounter in decades between security forces and terrorists hiding in the dense Akhal forests of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its eighth day on Friday.
Officials said intermittent firing continued through the night. “Nine security personnel have been injured so far in the operation. All were shifted to a military hospital for treatment,” they added.
The encounter began last Thursday after security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Akhal forest area, acting on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists. After the initial exchange of fire on Thursday evening, the operation was paused for the night, with security forces tightening the cordon and sending in additional reinforcements. One terrorist has been killed so far.
According to officials, drones, UAVs, and attack helicopters are being deployed to track down the remaining terrorists in the challenging forest terrain. “Security forces are exercising extreme caution to prevent collateral damage and ensure civilian safety,” they said.
J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat visited the encounter site for the fourth time in eight days to review the ongoing operation, accompanied by IGP Kashmir and other senior officers.
Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Northern Command, also reviewed the counter-terrorism grid in South Kashmir. He was briefed on the prevailing security situation and the progress of ongoing operations.
In a post on X, the Northern Command stated: “Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, Army Commander Northern Command, reviewed the counter-terrorism grid in South Kashmir, where he was briefed on the security situation, operational readiness, and ongoing operations. He complimented all ranks for their steadfastness and resilience, enabling the Indian Army’s resolute commitment to ensuring peace and security in the region.”
