A terrorist was killed and a non-commissioned officer (NCO) injured in a gunfight with security forces in the Kupwara district of Kashmir on Wednesday. This incident highlights the recent surge in terror activities, particularly south of the Pir Panjal mountains, which separate Jammu from the Kashmir Valley.
Key Highlights
- Location: Trimukha Top forest, Kupwara district, Kashmir
- Date: July 24, 2024
- Incident: Exchange of fire between security forces and terrorists
Details of the Incident
- The gunbattle erupted following a joint search operation by the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police based on specific intelligence about terrorist presence.
Army’s Chinar Corps:OP KOWUT, #Kupwara
Based on specific input regarding presence of terrorists in general area Kowut, Kupwara, a Joint Search Operation was launched by #IndianArmy & @JmuKmrPolice on days leading upto 23 July 24.
On 24 July, suspicious movement was observed and challenged byโฆ pic.twitter.com/0CHyEU59qh— Chinar Corps๐ - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) July 24, 2024
"On 24 July [Wednesday], suspicious movement was observed and challenged by vigilant troops, in response to which terrorists opened indiscriminate fire. In the ensuing firefight, one terrorist has been eliminated and an NCO has been injured. Operation is in progress."
Context of Increased Terror Activity
- The Trimukha Top forest is close to the Army’s Divar camp, which monitors movement in the Lolab Valley. This forest connects Lolab with Bandipora and Baramulla districts, providing a route for terrorists infiltrating from across the Line of Control (LoC).
- Recent Incidents:
- On July 14, three terrorists were killed in the Keran sector of Kupwara as security forces foiled an infiltration bid.
- A day before the Kupwara incident, a soldier, Lance Naik Subhash Chander from Uttar Pradesh, was killed in a firefight with terrorists in the Poonch district of Jammu.
Increased Security Measures
- The Army has intensified its efforts, using drones, quadcopters, and human intelligence to track and thwart terrorist movements and infiltration attempts.
- Recent Security Operations:
- In April, the Army killed two infiltrators in Baramulla’s Uri, marking the first such attempt of the year.
- On Monday, terrorists attacked village defence guard Parshotam Kumar’s residence and an army picket in Rajouri, wounding Kumar’s uncle and a soldier.
All Ranks of #WhiteKnightCorps salute the supreme #sacrifice of #Braveheart L/Nk Subhash Chander who laid down his life in the line of duty.#WhiteKnightCorps offers deepest condolences and stands firm with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.@adgpi@NorthernComd_IA pic.twitter.com/RgljiXv1p5— White Knight Corps (@Whiteknight_IA) July 23, 2024
Regional Security Scenario
- This year, 28 people, including 12 security personnel, a village defence guard, and five terrorists, have been killed in nearly a dozen attacks across six districts in Jammu.
- Notable Attacks:
- Doda district: Four Army personnel, including an officer, died in a gunfight with terrorists.
- Kathua district: Five soldiers were killed and five wounded in a terrorist ambush.
Army’s Response and Recalibration
- The Army has deployed more troops to the region, reoriented its units, and strengthened its intelligence network to counter terror operations.
- Security Forces Strategy: The response has been recalibrated with specific focus on Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch, and Reasi districts, which have become primary targets for Pakistan-based terror groups.
Comparative Analysis of Casualties
| Year | Region | Soldiers Killed | Terrorists Killed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Kashmir Valley | 7 | 51 |
| 2023 | Rajouri-Poonch | 20 | 20 |
| 2024 | Jammu (various districts) | 12 | 5 |
Recent Major Incidents
- Kulgam District: Twin gunbattles in which six terrorists and two soldiers were killed this month.
- Reasi District: On June 9, armed terrorists attacked a pilgrim bus, resulting in nine deaths and 42 injuries.
- Doda District: On June 26, three terrorists were killed in a gunfight with security forces in the Gandoh area.
Conclusion
The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains tense, with a noticeable spike in terror activities. The Army and other security forces continue to adapt and respond to these threats with increased vigilance and strategic operations. The recent incidents underscore the persistent threat posed by cross-border terrorism and the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.
The ongoing operation in Kupwara serves as a reminder of the complex security challenges faced by the region and the continuous efforts of the security forces to counter these threats.
Inputs from Multiple Agencies
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