GOC Northern Command visits Kulgam’s Devsar to review Akhal operation

Srinagar, Aug 7: The anti-terror operation in the Akhal area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its seventh consecutive day on Thursday, making it the longest such engagement in Jammu and Kashmir this year.

Security forces, including the Army, J&K Police, and CRPF, continue to battle a group of heavily armed terrorists holed up in dense alpine forests.

The joint operation, which began last Friday following intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area has seen intense gunfights, drone strikes, and aerial surveillance using attack helicopters.

The encounter zone is located in thick, rugged terrain at high altitude, posing significant challenges for the ground forces. Drones have been used extensively to drop explosives on suspected hideouts and track the movements of terrorists in the heavily wooded area, where visibility is limited. Special Forces, including Para commandos, have been deployed for precision operations.

“Firing is still going on from multiple directions. It’s a tactically challenging terrain. We have recovered one body,” said senior police officer. “The operation is being conducted with utmost caution to avoid casualties on our side,” he added.

So far, three soldiers have sustained injuries during the exchange of fire. They are undergoing treatment and reported to be stable. In the initial phase of the operation, one local terrorist was killed. The identity of the second slain terrorist is yet to be confirmed, pending body recovery.

Top Army commanders are closely monitoring the operation. General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Northern Command visited the encounter site to review the operational strategy and boost troop morale. This is a complex and prolonged operation in one of the most difficult terrains, and the troops are showing exemplary professionalism and restraint,” a senior Army official said.

“Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, #ArmyCdrNC reviewed Counter-Terrorism Grid in South Kashmir, where he was briefed upon the security situation, operational readiness and ongoing operations.He complimented all ranks for their steadfastness and resilience enabling #IndianArmy's resolute commitment in ensuring peace and security in the region.@adgpi@ChinarcorpsIA,” Northern Command -Indian Army said in a post X.