Security Forces Engage in Intense Operation Against Terrorists in Udhampur

After an exchange of fire, a search and destroy operation was launched in Khaneed area, Udhampur. Security forces cornered a group of terrorists. Difficult terrain and weather conditions pose additional challenges. Government has implemented SOPs for safety, with adequate security for pilgrims.

After an exchange of fire with terrorists yesterday evening, security forces launched a search operation in the Khaneed area of Basantgarh in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. Acting on intelligence regarding suspicious movement, a search and destroy operation (SADO) was initiated early Tuesday.

DIG Udhampur Reasi Range Rayees Mohammad Bhat stated, 'For the last three to four days, we have been tracking the movement of terrorists in the Khaneed area. Specific input regarding the movement of terrorists led to the launch of the SADO operation. After 4:30 pm, contact was established twice within two hours, and the group is now under our cordon. Our CRPF, police, and Army are consistently present in the area and are working to neutralize the three to four terrorists.'

Describing the geographical challenges, Bhat noted, 'The area features hilly terrain and dense coniferous forests, combined with cloudy and rainy weather, making visibility limited.' Meanwhile, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai reported two terrorist attacks on pilgrims with 14 casualties in the past five years. In response to MP Abhishek Banerjee, Rai assured that SOPs and adequate security measures are in place for the safety of pilgrims.

(With inputs from agencies.)