Srinagar – The ongoing anti-militant operation in the Akhal area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its seventh consecutive day on Thursday, with security forces tightening their grip around militants believed to be hiding in the dense forest terrain.
According to official sources, intermittent exchange of fire continued throughout the night, injuring three more army personnel. The injured soldiers were quickly evacuated to a nearby military hospital for treatment. Firing reportedly resumed late Tuesday night and carried on into Wednesday morning as the forces intensified their combing operations in the thickly vegetated region.
“Following a brief lull Wednesday morning, fresh firing broke out late last night. During the exchange, three jawans were injured,” said a security official, noting that reinforcements have been deployed and the operation remains active.
The joint search and cordon operation involves personnel from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). In a bid to accelerate the manhunt, drones and sniffer dogs are being utilized to locate the hiding militants, who are believed to be surrounded in a rugged forest stretch.
The encounter began last Thursday after specific intelligence pointed to militant activity in the area. Since then, the thick forest cover and challenging terrain have significantly hampered operational progress, extending the standoff into its seventh day.
Security forces are proceeding with caution to prevent collateral damage and ensure the safety of civilians living near the encounter site. The prolonged nature of the operation highlights the continuing militant presence in south Kashmir and the increased frequency of counter-insurgency efforts across the region.
This is among the longest active anti-terror operations in the Valley this year, reflecting both the persistence of threats and the strategic resolve of security agencies to neutralize them without endangering civilian lives.
