Encounter Erupts Between Security Forces and Terrorists in J&K's Udhampur Forests
An encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in a remote forested area of Bihali, Basantgarh, in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district. The joint operation by the Army and police established contact with the terrorists, and the engagement was ongoing. This incident highlights the continuing security challenges faced by forces in the Union Territory. Further details are awaited as the operation progresses.
Unpacked:
Operation Bihali is a joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police, launched in Bihali, Basantgarh after receiving specific intelligence inputs about terrorist presence in the area. The goal is to neutralize the threat posed by militants and maintain security in the region.
Jammu and Kashmir has faced a long-running insurgency due to its political status and proximity to the Pakistan border. Areas like Udhampur are targeted because militants often use remote and forested terrain for infiltration, hiding, and launching attacks against security forces.
Operation Sindoor marked an escalation in India’s counter-terrorism efforts following a high-profile attack. It led to intensified military operations and heightened alertness in Jammu and Kashmir, making security forces more proactive in seeking and engaging militants, as seen in current operations like Bihali.
Encounters disrupt daily life for local civilians, sometimes leading to displacement or casualties. They also contribute to ongoing tension between India and Pakistan, complicating regional stability due to the risk of military escalation and the broader geopolitical rivalry in the area.