In a significant update from Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, the Northern Army Commander, Lt General M V Suchindra Kumar, has emphasized the importance of heightened alertness among troops engaged in counter-terror operations. This directive comes in the wake of a recent terror attack that resulted in the death of a junior commissioned officer from the army’s elite special forces, along with injuries to three soldiers.
Lt General Kumar visited the region to assess operational preparedness, underlining the need for professionalism and vigilance in ongoing anti-terror efforts. Following this, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, Lt General Navin Sachdeva, accompanied by GOC Counter Insurgency Force Delta, conducted a review of the ongoing operations in Kishtwar. They were joined by officials from intelligence agencies and the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the recent abduction and murder of two Village Defence Guards (VDGs) by Pakistani terrorists, which led to increased military activity in the region. A counter-terror operation was initiated on November 9 in the area of Bhart Ridge after the VDGs were killed. Unfortunately, despite significant efforts, including aerial surveillance with drones and helicopters, security forces have yet to reestablish contact with the fleeing militants.
The operation escalated after a gunfight erupted, resulting in the death of Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, a junior commissioned officer of the 2 Para Special Forces. Following this incident, the terrorists managed to evade capture, prompting intensified efforts from the security forces.
To coordinate responses effectively, Jammu and Kashmir’s Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat convened a meeting with police officers to discuss security priorities and enhance collaboration across different law enforcement agencies. He stressed the necessity for proactive approaches to address the evolving security challenges.
In a related initiative, security forces conducted a mock drill at the Chenab Rail Bridge, recognized as the world’s highest railway bridge. This exercise, carried out by various departments including the district Reasi Police, Special Operations Group (SOG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and emergency services, aimed to evaluate the readiness of the forces to confront potential threats and ensure the protection of critical infrastructure.
These developments illustrate the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the region and their commitment to maintaining peace and stability amid rising tensions. The concerted efforts of the Indian Army and local law enforcement underscore a strategic aim to neutralize threats and safeguard civilian life in Jammu and Kashmir.
