A critical counter-terrorism operation, named Operation Trashi, is currently taking place in the Chhatru area of Kishtwar district as Indian security forces confront a group of terrorists associated with the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). This coordinated initiative involves the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The operation commenced in the early hours of Thursday after receiving credible intelligence regarding terrorist movements in the region.
Contact with the suspected terrorists was established around 3:29 AM IST in the Singhpora area of Chatroo. Initial reconnaissance suggests that at least five militants, potentially divided into two groups, are operating under the command of Saifullah, a recognized leader within JeM. Consequently, additional contingents from the CRPF and Indian Army have been deployed to the area, establishing a tight cordon aimed at preventing any escape attempts.
This encounter follows a tragic terrorist attack that occurred in April 2025 near Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, primarily Hindu tourists. This incident was attributed to JeM and led to a significant military response, including Operation Sindoor, where precision missile strikes targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Operation Trashi is viewed as a continuation of India’s vigorous campaign to dismantle cross-border terrorist infrastructures.
Kishtwar’s rugged terrain and dense forests have historically been conducive to militant activities, making it a strategic location for terrorist operations. The area’s proximity to vital infiltration routes has facilitated the movement of terrorists. Earlier this year, successful operations—Nader and Keller—eliminated six militants, highlighting the ongoing efforts of Indian authorities to eliminate remaining terrorist cells.
Jaish-e-Mohammed, established in 2000, has been a predominant force in anti-India militancy, allegedly supported by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The group has been implicated in several high-profile attacks, including the 2019 Pulwama incident. Recent intelligence suggests that the strikes during Operation Sindoor on May 7 may have inflicted substantial damage on JeM’s leadership, reportedly killing several top operatives, including Abdul Rauf Azhar, who is related to JeM chief Masood Azhar.
In light of the ongoing encounter, local residents have been urged to stay indoors to ensure their safety. The Indian Army has assured that all necessary precautions are being taken to protect civilians while actively engaging the militants. Security forces are on heightened alert, given the potential for further infiltration attempts and retaliatory actions.
As tensions along the Line of Control and within Jammu and Kashmir escalate, Operation Trashi serves as a reminder of the enduring threat posed by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups, along with India’s persistent commitment to neutralize these dangers. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has emphasized that India maintains the right to respond decisively to any act of terror, underscoring the country’s policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism.
