Encounter in Kulgam enters 4th day

Srinagar, Aug 4: The high-stakes anti-terror operation in the Akhal Devsar area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its fourth consecutive day on Monday, as security forces continued to tighten the cordon around terrorists engaged in a fierce gunbattle.

The encounter, which began on Friday evening following specific intelligence inputs, has already resulted in the death of a terrorist, while two security personnel have sustained injuries.

A senior official confirmed that intermittent gunfire continued throughout Monday, with the terrorists still holed up in the densely forested region.

The operation is being jointly carried out by the Indian Army’s 7 Para Special Forces, Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

After the initial exchange of fire on Friday evening, the operation was paused overnight and resumed on Saturday, leading to further casualties among the terrorists.

Army officials said that the difficulty posed by the rugged landscape of Akhal Devsar, noting that the dense vegetation and uneven terrain were slowing down combing operations.

“The area is under a tight cordon, and combing operations are ongoing to flush out the remaining terrorists, who are likely heavily armed and strategically positioned,” said a senior Army officer.

The Army has deployed the HAL Rudra attack helicopter to assist ground forces.

The Rudra, based on the ALH Dhruv platform, is equipped with a 20 mm turret gun, advanced electro-optical sensors, and precision targeting systems.

It has been providing close air support and aerial reconnaissance, enhancing both surveillance and firepower.

“The Rudra’s deployment allows for real-time intelligence gathering and precision strikes, particularly useful in terrain where visibility and accessibility are severely limited,” Army officials said. “Its role is crucial in minimising risks to ground troops.”

This encounter is part of a broader intensification of counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir in recent months, reflecting a firm push by security forces to eliminate remaining terror threats in Kashmir.

Meanwhile, Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat and IGP Vidhi Kumar Birdi, along with top Army and paramilitary officials, visited Akhal Kulgam to review the anti-terror operation while the security forces intensified surveillance amid suspicion of more terrorists in the area.