In a recent development, a militant was killed during a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. The operation took place in the forest area of Dassal Gujran, where suspicious movement was noticed. This encounter comes in the wake of increasing militant activity in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch.
Details of the Operation:
According to Jammu Additional Director General of Police Mukesh Singh, the encounter took place on Thursday night and resulted in the killing of a militant. Army Public Relations Officer (PRO) Lt Colonel Devender Anand stated that upon noticing the suspicious movement, the troops challenged the militants, leading to an exchange of fire. The firing continued sporadically throughout the night, and search operations were initiated at first light by the joint team of the Army and Police.
Recent Joint Operation in Poonch District:
Only two days prior to the encounter in Rajouri, a joint operation near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district’s Khari area led to the apprehension of three local militants. The security forces also seized a significant quantity of arms, ammunition, explosives, and narcotics from the militants. During the exchange of fire, one militant and one soldier sustained injuries. Sources indicate that the seized consignment was picked up by the militants from near the LoC, where it was allegedly dropped by their Pakistani handlers.
Increased Militant Activity in Rajouri and Poonch:
The twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, situated in the Pir Panjal region of the Union Territory, have witnessed a rise in militant activity this year. The militants operating in these areas have been responsible for the deaths of 10 soldiers and seven civilians thus far. This surge in activity has raised concerns regarding the security situation in these districts and necessitated heightened vigilance by security forces.
The successful joint operation in the Rajouri district resulting in the elimination of a militant demonstrates the continued efforts of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police to maintain peace and security in the region. The seizure of arms and ammunition from militants in a recent operation further highlights the ongoing challenges faced by security forces. With a focus on curbing militant activities and ensuring the safety of both the military and civilian population, the security agencies remain committed to maintaining law and order in Jammu and Kashmir’s border regions.