A joint anti-terror operation, codenamed ‘Operation Bihali’, is currently underway in the Bihali area of Basantgarh in Udhampur district. The Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police launched the operation earlier this morning after receiving specific intelligence regarding terrorist presence in the region.
The security forces have already established contact with the suspected militants and an active exchange of fire is ongoing. The area has been cordoned off, and reinforcements have been deployed to ensure the militants are neutralised.
The timing of the operation is particularly significant, coming just days before the start of the Amarnath Yatra on July 1. With lakhs of pilgrims expected to undertake the annual pilgrimage, authorities have stepped up security measures across Jammu and Kashmir, including multi-layered security grids and surveillance systems.
This year’s arrangements include deployment of drones, AI-enabled facial recognition, and ground-level security forces. The preemptive operation is seen as part of broader efforts to prevent any disruption during the pilgrimage, which has previously been targeted by terror groups.
Udhampur’s proximity to the Line of Control and its history of terrorist activity make it a strategically sensitive area. In 2017, an attack on Amarnath pilgrims by Jaish-e-Mohammed operatives left 11 dead, underscoring the importance of early intelligence and swift action.
As per data from the South Asia Terrorism Portal, more than 180 terror groups have operated in Jammu and Kashmir over the past two decades. In 2022 alone, the region witnessed over 200 civilian deaths linked to terrorism. Operations like Bihali are part of the security forces’ ongoing efforts to counter infiltration and safeguard civilian lives.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and further updates are expected as the joint forces continue their engagement in the Basantgarh sector.
