Security forces launch major anti-militancy operation in J&K after terrorists spotted near Pak border

Indian security forces launched a major anti-militancy operation in the northern Himalayan Union Territory of Jammu-Kashmir on Sunday (March 23).

According to reports, security forces earlier received a tip-off about the movement of a group of militants near the India-Pakistan border in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district.

After receiving the input, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the forest area, leading to a firefight between the militants and the forces.

“During the combing operation of the security forces, a group of militants was spotted in a jungle area. The militants took cover of the undulating topography and dense green cover inside the forests,” an official said.

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According to media reports, a girl sustained injuries during the brief battle. The local police have not confirmed any casualty so far. It was also reported that the militants may have tried to take some civilians hostage.

As the massive operation was launched, J&K Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat visited Kathua region.

In view of the ongoing operation, security forces are on high alert in Kathua.

A heavy security deployment was also put in place in border villages like Hiranagar.

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The Border Security Force (BSF) has also heightened vigilance along the Pakistan border, as intelligence reports warn of more terrorists attempting infiltration.

Jammu and Kashmir frequently experience tensions due to terrorist infiltrations from across the border with Pakistan. Just last week, security forces killed a terrorist in Kupwara. In February, an Army vehicle was attacked in Rajouri’s Sunderbani area, triggering a cordon and search operation.

According to Army data, 75 terrorists were killed in Jammu and Kashmir in 2024, with 60 per cent identified as Pakistani nationals. Out of these 75, 17 were killed while crossing the border while 26 were killed during operations inside the union territory.