Ongoing Encounter in J&K’s Doda District After Terror Attack

Security forces, including the Army, para commandos, and aerial support units, are intensifying their search operation to eliminate terrorists who have infiltrated from across the border and taken refuge in the forest area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. The encounter, which started after an attack that killed four Army personnel, has seen intermittent exchanges of fire but no new casualties have been reported.

Details of the Encounter

The first exchange of fire was reported at Kalaan Bhata around 10:45 pm on Tuesday, followed by another near Panchan Bhata at 2 am. Despite challenging conditions, including darkness, difficult terrain, and thick foliage, the terrorists managed to evade capture.

The joint operation, involving Rashtriya Rifles and the Special Operations Group of Jammu and Kashmir Police, was launched late Monday evening in the Desa forest area, about 55 km from Doda town. The search is ongoing despite adverse weather and terrain.

Terrorist Links and Response

The terrorists are believed to have connections with the banned Pakistan-based group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). The Army has been conducting joint operations with the Jammu and Kashmir Police to track and neutralize foreign terrorists moving through the upper regions of Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar districts.

In a statement, the Army emphasized its commitment to eliminating terrorism in the region through relentless operations. The use of drones and helicopters highlights the seriousness of the efforts to locate and neutralize the infiltrators.

Critical Considerations

While the immediate focus is on neutralizing the terrorist threat, it’s essential to consider the broader implications of such encounters:

1. Security Measures: The continued infiltration and presence of terrorists underscore the need for enhanced security measures and intelligence operations along the border areas.
2. Humanitarian Impact: Prolonged military operations in forested and rural areas can disrupt local communities and lead to collateral damage. Ensuring the safety and well-being of civilians is crucial.
3. Political and Diplomatic Efforts: Addressing the root causes of cross-border terrorism requires sustained political and diplomatic efforts. Dialogue and cooperation with neighboring countries, despite existing tensions, remain vital for long-term peace.
4. Military Strategy: The use of advanced technology, like drones, in anti-terror operations represents a strategic evolution. Assessing the effectiveness and potential ethical concerns of such methods is necessary.

By examining these aspects, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir.