Kishtwar (J&K), July 3, 2025 — A fierce gunfight broke out between security forces and terrorists in the Kuchal area of Kishtwar district on Wednesday morning after intelligence inputs indicated the presence of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militants in the region.
Officials from the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police confirmed the initiation of a joint anti-terror operation, stating that contact had been established with the terrorists holed up in the forested zone.
Operation Based on Specific Intelligence
Sources said the encounter was triggered after special intelligence inputs about terrorist movement in Kuchal, located in the upper reaches of Kishtwar. Following an intense search operation, security forces surrounded the hideout, prompting a retaliatory exchange of fire.
“Troops have cordoned off the area. A group of JeM terrorists is believed to be trapped. The encounter is ongoing,” a senior police officer told The Quick Update.
While official confirmation on the number of terrorists is awaited, preliminary inputs suggest that multiple militants are involved, possibly part of a sleeper module trying to infiltrate deeper into Jammu.
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Comes Days After Basantgarh Operation
This encounter comes just days after a terrorist was neutralized in Basantgarh (Udhampur district), amid growing concerns about revived militant movement in Jammu’s upper regions.
The Basantgarh operation, which involved coordinated action by the J&K Police and Rashtriya Rifles, also saw recovery of arms and ammunition, further indicating renewed attempts by terror outfits like JeM to reassert presence in the region.
JeM’s Rising Footprint in Jammu Division
Traditionally active in Kashmir, Jaish-e-Mohammed has increasingly shifted its focus to Jammu division in recent years. Security agencies believe the rugged terrain of areas like Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban offers strategic advantages to infiltrators seeking to avoid detection.
Counter-terror experts have raised concerns about a possible reactivation of terror modules in Chenab Valley, particularly in districts bordering South Kashmir.
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Civilians Advised to Stay Indoors
As the encounter continues, local residents have been urged to remain indoors, and traffic movement around Kuchal and adjoining villages has been halted.
“The safety of civilians is our top priority. We urge the public to avoid the area and refrain from circulating unverified information,” said a spokesperson from the District Police Headquarters, Kishtwar.
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FAQs (Schema-Optimized)
Q1: Where is the current encounter taking place in J&K?
The ongoing encounter is in the Kuchal area of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir.
Q2: Who are the terrorists involved in the Kishtwar encounter?
The terrorists are believed to be associated with the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) group.
Q3: Is this connected to the Basantgarh operation?
While not officially linked, the Kishtwar and Basantgarh encounters are part of heightened counter-terror operations in Jammu region.
Q4: Are there civilian casualties in the Kishtwar encounter?
No civilian casualties have been reported so far. The area has been secured to ensure public safety.
Q5: What precautions are being taken during the encounter?
Civilians have been advised to stay indoors, and movement near the encounter zone has been restricted by authorities.
