A large-scale search operation has been initiated in the dense forests of Basantgarh in Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on the pursuit of three terrorists belonging to the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) group. This effort follows an intense gunfight that resulted in the death of a Pakistani militant the previous day.
The operation is a collaborative effort between the Indian Army’s Para Commandos and local police, resuming early Friday morning. Enhanced combing operations are being conducted with the support of drone surveillance and sniffer dog units. The area remains tightly secured, with additional forces deployed to neutralize the terrorists believed to be hiding in the Karoor Nallah region.
The encounter that sparked this extensive operation began on Thursday when joint patrols confronted four heavily armed terrorists, marking the culmination of a year-long intelligence-led effort. The militants, allegedly assisted by local overground workers (OGWs), have been utilizing the forest cover and natural caves in an attempt to evade capture. One of the deceased militants has been identified as Haider, also known as Maulvi, who is recognized as a Pakistan-based operative of JeM.
Authorities have reported the arrest of five OGWs in recent months for offering logistical support to the terrorist group. Moreover, intelligence reports suggest the possible involvement of a local returnee from Pakistan, who might be aiding the militants in their movements.
Basantgarh is notable for its challenging terrain and is situated along a known infiltration route used by Pakistan-backed militants aiming to penetrate the region from the International Border in Kathua. This path enables militants to move through high-altitude areas toward Doda, Kishtwar, and the Kashmir Valley.
The region has seen several high-profile terror incidents over the past year. In April, Havaldar Jhantu Ali Shaikh from the 6 PARA unit was martyred during an encounter in the area. Additionally, there have been attacks on security forces and the killing of a village defense guard, with various JeM operatives eliminated in separate operations throughout 2024.
With the ongoing search operations, security agencies remain on heightened alert, resolutely focused on locating the remaining three terrorists and working to restore peace while preventing further infiltration in the region.
