Prolonged Anti-Terror Operation in Kulgam, J-K Enters Eighth Day

Srinagar, Aug 8 (PTI) In one of the lengthiest anti-terror operations witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir, the battle in Kulgam district persisted into its eighth day on Friday, as security forces continued their efforts against terrorists entrenched in the dense forest region. Officials revealed that senior police and Army officers have been supervising the operation 24/7.

On Thursday, Jammu and Kashmir's police chief, Nalin Prabhat, visited the operational zone to assess the situation. The Army's Northern Commander, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, also reviewed the security landscape and the counter-terrorism framework in South Kashmir, receiving briefings on the ongoing mission. An official confirmed that "the operation has entered its eighth day and is ongoing," with sporadic exchanges of gunfire continuing.

The use of drones and helicopters has been employed by security forces to locate the terrorists, given the challenging terrain of the forested area. Para commandos are also aiding in neutralizing the entrenched militants. Authorities further reported that seven security personnel have sustained injuries throughout the operation.

As a result of the encounter, which commenced last Friday following a cordon and search initiative based on specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists in a forested area at Akhal in South Kashmir, two terrorists have been eliminated. Following the initial gunfire exchange on Friday, the operation was paused for the night, yet the perimeter was reinforced, and additional forces were dispatched. On Saturday, when the firing resumed, two terrorists were neutralized, though their identities and affiliations remain unclear.

This operation stands as the longest anti-terror mission in the Kashmir valley so far this year, and is among the lengthiest on record in J-K.