Indian Army Soldier Killed in Gunfight with Terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir

19 September, 2025

An Indian Army soldier was killed during a gunfight with terrorists in a remote forest in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. The soldier sustained critical injuries during the encounter on Friday evening and later succumbed. Security forces, including the Army and J&K Police's Special Operations Group, have cordoned off the area and resumed a massive joint search operation to track down the two to three terrorists believed to be hiding in the Seoj Dhar forest.

Unpacked:

Which group are the terrorists suspected to be affiliated with in this encounter?

The terrorists involved in the Udhampur encounter are believed to be affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a Pakistan-based militant organization known for previous attacks in the region.

Why has there been an increase in gunfights in this specific region recently?

There has been a rise in militant activity and encounters in the Udhampur and surrounding forested areas, partly due to terrorists shifting operations to rugged terrains that offer concealment and strategic advantage over security forces.

What challenges do security forces face during anti-terror operations in these forested areas?

Security forces face challenges such as dense forests, difficult terrain, poor visibility, and militants trained in jungle warfare, making operations more complex and dangerous.

What is the broader security situation in Jammu and Kashmir currently?

Jammu and Kashmir continues to witness periodic encounters and counter-insurgency operations, with security forces conducting intensive searches and remaining on high alert due to ongoing threats from various militant groups.