A Jammu and Kashmir Police head constable was killed in a terrorist attack in the Lal Chowk area of Anantnag district on Wednesday, highlighting the continuing security challenges in the Kashmir Valley during the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed terrorist outfit linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

According to security officials, terrorists opened fire on police personnel at around 12:30 pm while they were deployed in the busy Lal Chowk market as part of security arrangements for the annual Amarnath Yatra. Security personnel immediately retaliated, leading to a brief exchange of fire.

Head Constable Ashiq Hussain sustained critical bullet injuries during the attack. He was rushed for medical treatment but succumbed to his injuries before reaching the hospital.

Massive Search Operation Underway

Following the attack, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Indian Army, and other security agencies launched a large-scale cordon-and-search operation across the area.

Officials sealed all entry and exit routes around Lal Chowk and intensified vehicle checks and identity verification of pedestrians. Additional security personnel were deployed to prevent any further incident and to trace the attackers.

Investigators are working to determine the number of terrorists involved and the escape route they may have used. Preliminary assessments indicate that the attackers may still be hiding in nearby localities, prompting security forces to continue search operations.

Attack During Amarnath Yatra Security

The incident occurred while police personnel were deployed to ensure security for pilgrims undertaking the annual Amarnath Yatra, one of the country's largest religious pilgrimages. Authorities have maintained heightened security across Jammu and Kashmir during the yatra, deploying thousands of police and paramilitary personnel to secure pilgrimage routes and sensitive locations.

Despite the attack, officials said security arrangements for the pilgrimage remain fully operational, with additional vigilance being maintained across the Valley.

TRF Claims Responsibility

Soon after the attack, The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility. The outfit has been identified by Indian security agencies as a proxy organisation linked to the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and has been involved in several attacks targeting civilians and security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir.

Security agencies are investigating the claim while continuing efforts to identify and neutralise those involved in Wednesday's attack.

Recent Security Alert Along the LoC

The incident comes just days after the Indian Army thwarted a suspected infiltration attempt along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district.

On the night of 17 July, Army personnel detected suspicious movement near the Tarkundi forward area and opened fire. Officials said intermittent firing continued for nearly 90 minutes. Although no casualties were reported, security forces believe suspected militants were attempting to infiltrate into Indian territory.

A search operation was launched after the firing, but no arrests were made.

Security Vigil Intensified

Following the Anantnag attack, security agencies have further strengthened surveillance across south Kashmir. Intelligence units are coordinating with local police and Army formations to prevent additional attacks, particularly during the Amarnath Yatra.

Officials have appealed to residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, while assuring that all necessary measures are being taken to maintain peace and ensure the safety of pilgrims and civilians.