An encounter between security forces and a group of terrorists is ongoing in the Basantgarh area of Udhampur district, officials reported on Tuesday. The operation, which began in the early hours, follows specific intelligence about terrorist movements in the region.
DIG Udhampur-Reasi, Rayees Mohammad Bhat, confirmed the encounter via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “After specific input was gleaned regarding movement in the area, a Search and Destroy Operation (SADO) was launched in the early hours today by our parties; contact has been established with a group of terrorists in Khaned area of PS Basantgarh. Ops underway.”
Udhampur, known for its mountainous terrain, has been a hotspot for foreign terrorists seeking refuge in its dense forests. The ongoing operation is part of a broader anti-terrorism strategy implemented across several districts in Jammu division, including Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Kathua, Reasi, and Udhampur. Over 4,000 soldiers, including elite Para commandos trained in mountain warfare, have been deployed to tackle terrorism in these areas.
The strategy was reassessed during high-level security meetings chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. To date, police have detained around 40 individuals suspected of assisting or guiding terrorists. Among those detained, two suspects have admitted to participating in ambush attacks in the Doda area.
Sources By Agencies