Terror Strikes Zabarwan: A Sarcastic Peace Shattered

A rare encounter between terrorists and security forces occurred in the Zabarwan forest range near Srinagar, causing panic and an evacuation. It followed closely after a similar encounter in Khanyar, downtown Srinagar. While the terrorists fled, a manhunt continues, reshaping local normalcy.

A rare clash shook the Zabarwan forest range near Srinagar as terrorists engaged in a gunfight with security forces on Sunday, resulting in resident evacuations. Troops were immediately increased to encircle the area, as villagers witnessed the first such event in two decades.

This encounter follows a similar incident in Khanyar, downtown Srinagar, earlier this month, where a top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander was killed. While the gunfire in Zabarwan eventually ceased, the terrorists used the forest's dense cover to escape, initiating an ongoing search operation.

Witnesses reported hearing gunshots shortly after Army, police, and CRPF personnel initiated a morning operation. The forest, typically a peaceful grazing ground, saw residents fleeing their homes in fear. Security tightened, limiting civilian and media access as authorities worked to manage the situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)