Four Security Personnel and Traffic Officer Injured in Ongoing Terrorist Encounter in J&K’s Kulgam

Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir: In a fresh incident of violence in the conflict-prone region of Jammu and Kashmir, at least four security personnel and a traffic police officer were injured during an ongoing encounter with terrorists in the Kulgam district on Saturday. The encounter, which is taking place in Adigam village of the Devsar area, began after security forces launched a cordon and search operation, following specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists.

The Encounter Begins in Adigam Village

According to police sources, the gunbattle erupted when security personnel, including Army and police units, commenced a house-to-house search operation. During the search, terrorists opened fire on the advancing forces, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. “Encounter has started at Adigam Devsar area of Kulgam. Police and security forces are on the job. Further details shall follow,” the Kashmir Police Zone said in a statement on social media.

Additional SP (Traffic), Mumtaz Ali, was among those injured. He sustained minor injuries after being struck by a stray bullet near the encounter site. Ali’s injuries have been classified as non-life-threatening, and he is reportedly in stable condition. Alongside Ali, three Army personnel and one police officer involved in the operation were injured. They have been rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Security Forces Continue Search for Trapped Terrorists

Reports suggest that two terrorists are believed to be trapped in the area, as the encounter continues into its second day. The security forces have established a tight cordon around the region to prevent the terrorists from escaping, while additional reinforcements have been deployed to the site.

The Adigam village, located in the Devsar region of Kulgam, has witnessed sporadic incidents of violence in the past. However, the presence of terrorists in this area prompted security forces to act swiftly, initiating a search and cordon operation to neutralize the threat.

Recent Terrorist Activity in Jammu and Kashmir

The encounter in Kulgam is the latest in a string of incidents highlighting the ongoing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. Just days earlier, on September 15, security forces were involved in another exchange of fire with terrorists in the Poonch district. This encounter followed an operation in Baramulla on September 14, where one terrorist was killed in a gunfight. The Baramulla gunfight occurred after two Indian Army personnel lost their lives in a separate encounter in Kishtwar on September 11.

The recurrence of such encounters underscores the tense security situation in the region, particularly as Jammu and Kashmir continues to grapple with terrorism.

Security Challenges Amid Assembly Elections

The ongoing violence in Jammu and Kashmir comes at a critical time, as the region is currently holding its first Assembly elections in a decade. The polls, which are being held in three phases, have already seen two rounds of voting on September 18 and September 25. The third and final phase is scheduled for October 1, with the counting of votes set to take place on October 8.

The heightened security presence in the region during the elections has not deterred militant groups from launching attacks. Security forces remain on high alert as they attempt to ensure a peaceful voting process, though incidents like the Kulgam encounter underscore the persistent threats.

Response from Security Authorities

Authorities have stated that the situation is being monitored closely. They are determined to bring the encounter to a close while ensuring the safety of civilians in the area. Additional reinforcements from the Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police have been called in to assist in neutralizing the terrorists and securing the region.

A senior police official on the ground commented on the ongoing operation, stating, “Our priority is to ensure minimal collateral damage while eliminating the terrorist threat. The forces are working round the clock to bring the situation under control.”

The injured personnel are receiving medical attention, and further updates on their condition are expected soon.

Future Security Measures in the Region

Given the surge in violent incidents, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are expected to intensify their operations to flush out remaining terrorist elements. Intelligence networks have been put on high alert, with continued coordination between the Army, paramilitary forces, and local police.

Experts suggest that the ongoing Assembly elections could be contributing to the increase in militant activity, as terror outfits seek to destabilize the region during this crucial time. Security forces, however, remain steadfast in their efforts to counter such activities and ensure the safety of the public.

As the encounter in Kulgam progresses, authorities are urging civilians to remain indoors and avoid the area of conflict. The district administration has also issued an advisory, asking people to cooperate with security forces and refrain from gathering at the site of the encounter.

Conclusion

The encounter in Kulgam serves as a reminder of the complex security challenges that continue to plague Jammu and Kashmir. While security forces remain committed to restoring peace in the region, the sporadic nature of violence poses ongoing risks. As the situation unfolds, further updates are expected from the authorities regarding the status of the encounter and the condition of the injured personnel.