An encounter between security forces and suspected terrorists erupted on Tuesday in the Nagmarg area of Bandipora, North Kashmir. A joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police, launched after intelligence reports indicated terrorist presence, resulted in a gunbattle that continues as authorities work to neutralize the threat.
According to an official post from the Srinagar-based 15 Corps on X (formerly Twitter), security personnel detected suspicious movements, and when the suspects were confronted, they opened indiscriminate fire. “On 12 Nov 24, based on specific intelligence input regarding presence of terrorists, a Joint Operation launched by Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police in general area Nagmarg of Bandipora. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged terrorists opened indiscriminate fire. Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress,” the statement read. Security sources believe two to three terrorists remain trapped as the operation unfolds.
This incident follows closely on the heels of a recent clash on Sunday in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, where Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of the 2 Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) lost his life in a firefight with terrorists. The 42-year-old officer, originally from Barnog village in Himachal Pradesh, is survived by his wife, Bhanupriya, his children Yashshwini and Pranav, and his 90-year-old mother, Bhati Devi. The encounter took place in Gidri Top, a remote, mountainous area near Keshwan and Kuntwara, and is known for its difficult terrain and dense forests. The bodies of two guards were discovered in the area on Friday morning, raising alarm about increased militant activity.
In Jammu and Kashmir this year, terrorist attacks and encounters have resulted in significant casualties. In Jammu, a total of 16 security personnel, 10 civilians, and three Village Defense Guards (VDGs) have been killed in various incidents. Security forces have also successfully neutralized 13 terrorists in the region. In Kashmir, nine security personnel and 15 civilians have been killed in terror attacks, while forces have eliminated 24 terrorists so far in 2024.
Sources By Agencies
