Two terrorists and two soldiers were killed in an anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam. Security forces continue operations amid growing cross-border infiltration attempts, drone threats, and narco-terror networks linked to Pakistan, as efforts intensify to dismantle the terror ecosystem.
A fierce anti-terror operation unfolded in the Gudar forest area of Kulgam district on Monday, resulting in the deaths of two terrorists and two soldiers, while another junior commissioned officer (JCO) sustained injuries but is reportedly stable.
According to officials, the operation began as a joint cordon-and-search operation (CASO) was launched by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police following intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists. As the forces approached the suspected hideout, terrorists opened fire, triggering an intense gunfight.
In the initial exchange of fire, one terrorist was neutralized. However, three soldiers, including a JCO, were injured during the encounter. The wounded soldiers were immediately evacuated to a hospital, where two of them succumbed to their injuries despite efforts by the medical team. The JCO is recovering and reported to be in stable condition.
As the operation continued, another terrorist was killed in the exchange of fire. Security forces are still on high alert in the area, and combing operations are underway to ensure that no other terrorists remain hidden in the forest belt.
The Army’s Srinagar-based Chinar Corps confirmed the deaths of two soldiers, identifying them as Subedar Perbhat Gaur and Lance Naik Narender Sindhu. In a tribute posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Chinar Corps said:
“OP GUDDAR, Kulgam – Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of the Bravehearts, Sub Perbhat Gaur and L/Nk Narender Sindhu, in line of duty for the Nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. #IndianArmy expresses deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families.”
Anti-Terror Drive Intensifies in J&K
The encounter is part of a wider crackdown on terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, where security forces have intensified operations against terrorists, their overground workers (OGWs), and sympathisers. Officials say the strategy is not only to eliminate terrorists carrying weapons but also to dismantle the larger ecosystem that sustains terrorism in the Union Territory.
Security agencies have repeatedly emphasized that OGWs play a vital role in sheltering terrorists, transporting arms, and providing logistics. Neutralizing this network is seen as essential for long-term stability.
Cross-Border Threats and Infiltration Attempts
The Kulgam operation comes at a time when infiltration attempts along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) have increased. After the suspension of “Operation Sindoor,” there have been multiple attempts by terrorist groups to push infiltrators into Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan.
The LoC, stretching nearly 740 km, is guarded round-the-clock by the Indian Army. Additionally, the International Border, covering around 240 km across Jammu, Samba, and Kathua districts, is secured by the Border Security Force (BSF). Both the Army and BSF have been dealing with cross-border terrorism aided by Pakistan-based handlers.
Use of Drones and Narco-Terror Links
In recent years, drones have emerged as a new threat in J&K. Terror outfits, with Pakistani assistance, have been using drones to drop weapons, explosives, drugs, and cash on Indian soil. These consignments are often retrieved by local terror modules and OGWs, thereby fueling militancy.
To counter this, the BSF has deployed advanced anti-drone systems to intercept and neutralize such aerial threats. Officials maintain that stopping the inflow of weapons and narcotics is key to weakening the terror ecosystem.
Moreover, security forces are keeping a close watch on drug smugglers and hawala networks operating in the region. Investigations suggest that funds generated through narcotics smuggling and hawala rackets are funneled into terror financing. The roots of many such networks have been traced back to handlers based in Pakistan, highlighting the cross-border nexus of terrorism.
A Continuing Battle
Monday’s Kulgam encounter highlights the continuing challenges security forces face in their battle against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. While the elimination of two terrorists marks a tactical success, the loss of two soldiers underscores the high cost of counter-terrorism operations.
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Tributes are pouring in for the fallen soldiers, whose sacrifice once again reinforces the Indian Army’s motto of service before self. Meanwhile, security forces have vowed to continue their mission to root out terrorism from the Valley, despite persistent cross-border challenges.
The operation in Gudar forest remains active, with officials confirming that search operations are ongoing to ensure the area is cleared of any remaining threats.
