A significant counter-terrorism initiative, named Operation Trashi, has now entered its sixth day in the Chatroo region of Kishtwar district. The operation, designed to locate and neutralize a group of militants from the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) organization, has seen an escalation in military presence, including the deployment of additional troops and elite Para Commandos.
Beginning on May 22 in the Singhpora area, the operation has transitioned into the nearby Chatroo forest belt, which is characterized by its dense and rugged terrain. Security forces have reportedly narrowed in on three to four militants believed to be hiding in this area, including a known operative identified as Saifullah. This group is thought to comprise individuals who had previously managed to evade capture during an earlier encounter with security forces.
Throughout the course of the operation, two terrorists have been eliminated. However, the initiative has also been marked by tragedy, as a District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan lost his life due to an IED blast shortly before the operation’s commencement. Additionally, the first day of confrontations witnessed the martyrdom of Sepoy Pandurang from the 17th Rashtriya Rifles.
In response to the ongoing skirmishes, security has been significantly enhanced around the encounter site. Troops from the Army’s 11 Rashtriya Rifles, 7th Assam Rifles, and two units of Para Special Forces, along with the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Kishtwar, have successfully sealed off all potential escape routes. High-ranking law enforcement and military officials are closely monitoring the situation on the ground, including Kishtwar Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Inspector General of Police (IGP) Bhim Sen Tuti, and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Shridhar Patil.
The Director General of Police has commended the forces involved for their valiant efforts, emphasizing the dedication of security units to continuing counter-terrorism operations as a means to establish lasting peace in the region.
The deployment of Para Commandos, who have been airdropped into the operational zone, signifies the seriousness of the undertaking. Known for their specialized skills in counter-insurgency and high-risk assault tactics, these elite forces from the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment carry a distinguished history, having participated in major conflicts, including World War II, the 1971 Indo-Pak war, and numerous anti-terror operations across India.
Operation Trashi builds on the recent successes in Pulwama district, where three JeM terrorists were neutralized in the village of Nadir in Tral. These ongoing operations underscore a robust strategy aimed at eradicating terrorism and fostering long-term stability across Jammu and Kashmir.
