A significant counter-terrorism operation, identified as Operation Nader, was initiated in the early hours of Thursday in the Nader area of Tral, Awantipora. The operation is being carried out by a collaborative effort involving the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
This operation was launched in response to credible intelligence reports indicating the presence of armed terrorists in the vicinity. During the course of a cordon and search operation, security personnel observed suspicious movements, which prompted the terrorists to open fire, resulting in an intense exchange of gunfire.
Presently, the operation remains active, with reports yet to confirm any casualties or the identities of the terrorists involved. Security forces have established a perimeter around the area, and additional reinforcements have been dispatched to hinder any potential escape or infiltration by the militants.
This operation comes against the backdrop of a worrying increase in militant activities within the Valley, including a recent attack in Pahalgam. Just days ago, Indian security forces successfully neutralized three terrorists in Shopian, among them a local commander linked to the militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba/The Resistance Front (LeT/TRF). During that encounter, multiple AK-series rifles, ammunition, and other war-like materials were recovered.
Historically, the Tral region was known as a stronghold for the Hizbul Mujahideen but was designated militant-free in 2020. Nevertheless, sporadic incidents continue to disrupt the fragile peace in South Kashmir. Security experts have indicated that new recruits and infiltrators may be attempting to re-establish terror networks in the area.
The Chinar Corps, which is based in Srinagar, is at the forefront of the Indian Army’s counter-insurgency efforts in Jammu and Kashmir. Given the escalating tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) and the ongoing threat posed by militant activities, there has been a significant increase in surveillance, patrols, and coordinated intelligence-led operations.
The central government has reiterated its unwavering stance against terrorism, with today’s operation reflecting India’s commitment to dismantling the militant infrastructure that persists in the Valley.
Updates on Operation Nader are awaited as the situation continues to develop.
