Intense Gunfight in Kathua: Security Forces Engage Terrorists Near Indo-Pak Border
Kathua, J&K – A fierce encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district on Sunday evening. The gunfight erupted in Sanyal village, located near the Indo-Pak border in the Hiranagar sector. Security personnel launched a search operation after spotting suspicious movement, leading to a confrontation with heavily armed terrorists.
Search Operation Leads to Gunbattle
Based on intelligence inputs regarding terrorist infiltration, a joint team comprising the Indian Army, local police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) initiated a cordon-and-search operation in the Hiranagar sector. As security forces advanced, they encountered a group of armed terrorists, resulting in an exchange of heavy gunfire. The entire area was swiftly sealed off, and additional reinforcements were deployed to prevent the militants from escaping.
The operation is still underway, with security personnel working to neutralize the remaining terrorists in the region. Officials have urged residents to stay indoors as the situation remains tense.
Rising Terror Activity in Jammu and Kashmir
This latest encounter is part of a growing number of terrorist-related incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. Over the past few weeks, security forces have intensified counterterrorism efforts to curb infiltration and prevent attacks in the region.
Recent Incidents:
- High-Security Alert in Kashmir – Following a surge in terror activities across Pakistan’s Balochistan province, Indian security agencies issued a high-security alert in Jammu and Kashmir. The killing of top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Zia-ur-Rehman further escalated concerns of retaliatory attacks.
- Kathua-Basantgarh Encounter – On September 11, 2024, security forces engaged terrorists at the Kathua-Basantgarh border in Udhampur. Acting on precise intelligence, an operation was launched, resulting in a prolonged gunbattle.
- Terrorist Hideout Discovered in Doda – A terrorist hideout was unearthed in a remote forest area of Doda district, leading to the recovery of arms and ammunition. Security forces seized a pistol, three magazines, six rounds, and 25 AK-47 cartridges from the hideout.
- Grenade Attack in Rajouri – On March 21, suspected terrorists hurled a grenade at a police vehicle in Rajouri district. Fortunately, the explosive missed its target and detonated harmlessly by the roadside. The attack, aimed at a Special Operations Group (SOG) vehicle on patrol, underscores the persistent threat posed by terrorist elements.
Government’s Counterterrorism Strategy
Security agencies have ramped up operations to eliminate terrorism from the region. According to government sources, the number of active terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir has significantly declined.
- Current Terrorist Strength: As of March 2025, only 76 terrorists remain active in the Union Territory. Among them, 59 are foreign militants affiliated with LeT, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). The number of local terrorists has dropped to just 17.
- Decline in Recruitment: Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, recruitment of local youth into terrorist organizations has plummeted by 96%. In 2019, approximately 132 individuals joined terror outfits, whereas in 2025, the number has reduced significantly.
Increased Vigilance and Public Cooperation
Security forces have called for heightened vigilance among residents, urging them to report any suspicious activities. Increased patrolling and intelligence-driven operations have played a crucial role in mitigating threats. Authorities emphasize the importance of civilian cooperation in maintaining security and ensuring peace in the region.
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The ongoing encounter in Kathua district highlights the relentless efforts of security forces in countering terrorism. Despite facing continuous challenges, the armed forces remain committed to safeguarding the region from terrorist threats.
As the operation continues, authorities are closely monitoring developments and ensuring the safety of civilians. The government’s strict counterterrorism policies and intensified security measures have proven effective in curbing infiltration and minimizing terrorist activities.
The situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains under control, but vigilance and cooperation from both security personnel and the public are crucial in maintaining long-term peace in the region. Authorities have assured that any further developments will be addressed with utmost urgency and efficiency.
