A high-value terrorist affiliated with the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed outfit, identified as Maulvi, has been gunned down by Indian security forces in the Bihali area of Basantgarh, Udhampur district. The elimination comes as part of the ongoing Operation Bihali, a joint counter-terror operation launched earlier this week by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police.
The operation was initiated based on specific intelligence inputs suggesting the presence of foreign-trained militants in the dense forested region. Contact was established swiftly, triggering a fierce gunfight. Security officials confirmed that Maulvi, believed to be a key planner behind recent infiltration attempts, was neutralized during the intense exchange of fire.
The timing of the operation is significant, occurring just days before the commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which attracts lakhs of devotees to the Union Territory. Intelligence agencies had earlier issued alerts about possible disruptions by terror elements in the lead-up to the pilgrimage.
Sources within the security establishment described Maulvi as a highly radicalized foreign terrorist who had infiltrated across the Line of Control (LoC) earlier this year. His presence in Udhampur, a relatively peaceful district in recent years, had raised red flags within the counter-terror grid.
The joint force continues to comb the surrounding area to ensure there are no remaining threats, with the operation still active as of the latest update.
Operation Bihali is being hailed as a preemptive success in thwarting potential attacks and reinforces the readiness of Indian security forces to ensure a secure environment for both local residents and pilgrims. Further updates are expected as clearance operations progress in the region.
