Kishtwar: A firefight broke out on Wednesday between security forces and terrorists in the Chhatru area of Kishtwar district, officials confirmed. The White Knight Corps, in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, launched an intelligence-based operation early in the morning, leading to the ongoing encounter.
According to the army, two to three terrorists are involved in the clash. One security personnel reportedly sustained minor injuries during the operation. Forces are maintaining close surveillance on the rugged terrain, as Kishtwar’s mountainous region has been a hotspot for terrorist activity, bordering Doda and Udhampur districts.
Kishtwar has witnessed six encounters in the past seven months, reflecting the ongoing efforts to flush out Pakistan-based terrorists hiding in the area. Notable past incidents include:
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September 21: Terrorists engaged in a gunfight in the Chhatru sector.
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September 13: Two army personnel, including a junior commissioned officer, killed in Naidgram; two others injured.
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August 11 and July 2: Terrorists clashed with forces in Dul and Chhatru but escaped.
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May 22: One soldier and two terrorists killed in Singapore area of Chhatru.
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April 12: Three terrorists neutralized in Kishtwar, while an infiltration attempt along the LoC in Akhnoor was foiled.
Authorities said the operation is ongoing, and security personnel are taking all measures to ensure civilian safety while pursuing the terrorists through the challenging mountainous terrain.
