Srinagar, Nov 10: A fierce encounter erupted between security forces and terrorists in the Zabarwan forest area of Srinagar, Central Kashmir, on Sunday morning, as a joint operation was launched based on intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in the region, Jammu and Kashmir police confirmed.
The operation, which was initiated by a joint team of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces, led to an exchange of fire between the forces and the terrorists. The identity and number of militants involved in the encounter are yet to be confirmed, but sources indicated that the firefight is ongoing in the dense forest area.
According to the police, the operation was launched after specific intelligence was received about the presence of terrorists in the area, which has historically been considered relatively calm. “A joint team of police and security forces launched an operation based on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the Zabarwan forest area,” a police spokesperson said. “An exchange of fire ensued, and the operation is currently underway.”
Terrorist Activity Escalates Across Kashmir and Jammu
This encounter marks yet another chapter in a series of rising clashes between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Over the past several weeks, multiple such operations have taken place across the region, resulting in the elimination of several terrorists, including key commanders. However, the escalation in terrorist activity has not been limited to traditional hotbeds of militancy, like the south and north Kashmir regions, but has now spread to areas previously considered relatively safe, such as Srinagar and parts of the Chenab Valley in Jammu.
Security forces have also suffered casualties in some of these encounters, highlighting the growing intensity of the insurgency. While Kashmir continues to experience frequent anti-terror operations based on intelligence inputs, incidents in Jammu have seen a shift in tactics, with terrorists employing sophisticated weapons such as grenades, armor-piercing bullets, and M4 assault rifles. Ambushes on security forces’ vehicles have become increasingly common, raising concerns about the evolving threat.
Increasing Militancy in Jammu and Kashmir
Sources within the security establishment have expressed concern over the recent escalation in militant activities, which indicates a higher level of sophistication and coordination within terrorist groups operating in the region. The use of advanced weaponry and tactical ambushes suggests that these groups have grown more capable and are now targeting areas that were previously less affected by militancy, such as parts of the Jammu division, including Udhampur and Kathua.
Analysts say that the Pir Panjal region, which separates the Kashmir Valley from Jammu, has witnessed a sharp rise in militant activity in recent months. As security forces intensify operations in the Kashmir Valley, militants appear to be shifting towards the mountains and previously untouched areas in both Kashmir and Jammu, seeking refuge in dense forests and rugged terrain.
Calls for Stronger Security Measures
The recent surge in militant activity has sparked concerns among local politicians, security experts, and residents. Calls for a stronger security presence and a more coordinated strategy to address the growing threat are being made by political leaders across the region. There is a growing consensus that the current security apparatus needs to be reassessed and strengthened in light of the increasing sophistication of the militants’ tactics.
Political leaders have also criticized the recent uptick in violence, with some urging the administration to bolster security measures, improve intelligence-sharing, and enhance counterterrorism operations to prevent further escalation. Public safety and the protection of civilians have become a major concern as terror attacks have also targeted civilian infrastructure and individuals.
Urgent Need for Comprehensive Strategy
Experts argue that the rising graph of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir calls for a comprehensive strategy to counter the insurgency. This includes enhanced intelligence gathering, better coordination between security agencies, and a stronger emphasis on countering militant propaganda. The involvement of trained, well-armed terrorists with access to sophisticated weapons only adds to the complexity of the situation.
“The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir is evolving. Militants are becoming more sophisticated, and the security forces need to adapt quickly,” said a senior military analyst. “While operations in Kashmir are already highly coordinated, it’s time to reassess the security grid in Jammu to counter these emerging threats.”
The government and security agencies have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, with a focus on tackling terrorism and maintaining peace in the region. However, experts caution that lasting peace will require not only robust military actions but also sustained efforts to address the socio-political factors fueling the insurgency.
As the operation in Zabarwan continues, residents of Srinagar and the wider region remain on high alert, with heightened security measures in place as the authorities work to neutralize the threat posed by militants operating in the area.