ISLAMABAD: An intense gunbattle erupted in the rugged terrains of Kishtwardistrict in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, leaving sevenIndian soldiers injured from multiple grenade blasts and splinter wounds.The incident unfolded during a joint cordon and search operation launchedby the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police, based on specificintelligence about the presence of foreign terrorists. Sources indicatethat the attackers, resorted to indiscriminate firing and grenade lobbingin a desperate bid to break the security cordon. This development hasheightened tensions in the region amid ongoing efforts to flush outmilitants from dense forests.
The operation, codenamed Operation Trashi-I, commenced around noon in theremote Singhpora-Chhatru-Sonnar area near Chatroo, a challenginghigh-altitude forested zone perched at elevations exceeding 3,600 meters.Security forces established contact with a small group of two to threeterrorists, prompting an exchange of fire. Reports from credible sourceshighlight that the injuries stemmed primarily from grenade explosionsrather than direct gunfire, underscoring the militants’ use of under-barrelgrenade launchers and hand grenades as a key tactic in the ambush-likeengagement.
Among the seven injured personnel, three sustained more severe splinterinjuries and were promptly airlifted to a military hospital for advancedtreatment, with at least one reported in critical condition initially. Theremaining four soldiers received splinter wounds and were providedimmediate medical care. Officials emphasized that all injuries werenon-fatal, and swift evacuation measures ensured timely intervention.Reinforcements, including additional troops, drones, helicopters, andsniffer dogs, were rushed to the area to tighten the cordon and neutralizethe trapped militants.
This encounter marks the third major anti-terror operation in the Jammuregion this year, following similar clashes in the Billawar area of Kathuadistrict earlier in January. Intelligence assessments suggest the presenceof nearly three dozen foreign militants, mostly Pakistani nationals, hidingin the mountainous forests spanning Kishtwar, Doda, and adjacent districts.The militants’ reliance on grenades in such terrain reflects a pattern ofavoiding prolonged firefights while attempting to inflict casualties andescape.
Security analysts note that the Kishtwar region has witnessed a surge insuch operations since late last year, driven by a broader counter-terrorismcampaign to eliminate holed-up terrorists ahead of heightened seasonalthreats. The difficult topography, including thick forests and steepslopes, poses significant challenges for both sides, often prolongingengagements and complicating casualty evacuations. The use of advancedsurveillance tools in the current operation indicates an escalation intactics to locate and engage the militants more effectively.
Local authorities in Kishtwar have issued alerts to nearby villages andintensified security measures to prevent any spillover of violence. Theincident has drawn attention to the persistent cross-border militancyissue, with officials reiterating that foreign elements continue to pose amajor security challenge in the Jammu division. As the operation remainsactive, intermittent firing was reported, raising suspense over the finaloutcome and potential neutralization of the terrorists involved.
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The broader context reveals a series of recent encounters, highlighting theIndian security forces’ sustained efforts to dismantle militant networks inthe region. While initial reports varied between three and seven injuries,converging sources from multiple outlets confirmed the higher figure, withemphasis on the grenade-induced nature of the wounds. This has fueleddiscussions on the evolving tactics employed by militants in forestedhideouts.
As investigations continue and the operation progresses, the focus remainson ensuring the safety of personnel and civilians while pursuing theobjective of eliminating the terrorist threat. The swift response andmedical evacuation underscore the preparedness of forces in handling suchcontingencies in hostile environments. The situation continues to develop,with further details expected as reinforcements consolidate their positions.
Source:https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/7-soldiers-injured-during-gunbattle-with-terrorists-in-j-k-10775273
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