Operation Trashi-1 Resumes in Kishtwar: Security Forces Hunt Jaish Terrorists, 8 Injured

During Sunday’s encounter, militants hurled grenades and opened fire, injuring eight army personnel, who were hit by shrapnel. The operation had been temporarily halted late Sunday night due to dense forest cover, steep slopes, and reduced visibility in winter conditions.

On Monday, multiple teams of the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces re-entered the area. They are deploying drones and sniffer dogs to locate the terrorists. Security forces have also cordoned off forest routes connecting Doda, Kishtwar, and Kathua districts to prevent militants from escaping.

Officials stated that the ongoing operation is part of a series of anti-terror measures intensified ahead of Republic Day to ensure peaceful celebrations. Intelligence agencies have warned that Pakistan-based handlers may attempt to infiltrate additional terrorists into the region.

This marks the third encounter in the Jammu region this year, following clashes on January 7 and January 13 in the Kahog and Najot forests of Kathua’s Billawar area. Last month, on December 15, a police officer was killed in an encounter in Soan village, Udhampur district, when militants managed to flee under the cover of darkness and dense foliage.

Security officials highlighted that these encounters are part of a larger December operation to neutralize nearly three dozen terrorists believed to be hiding in forested areas of Jammu. The operations also aim to protect border districts and strengthen counter-infiltration measures amid ongoing threats.

The Army emphasized that despite harsh winter conditions and difficult terrain, operations are being conducted with precision and coordinated intelligence inputs. The injured personnel have been evacuated for medical treatment, while the search continues. Authorities have appealed to locals to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity in forested regions.

With Operation Trashi-1 ongoing, the focus remains on neutralizing the JeM terrorist presence and safeguarding the region ahead of national celebrations.