A counter-terrorism operation in the Akhal area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district has entered its third day on August 3 (Sunday), with security forces confirming the neutralisation of at least two terrorists in an ongoing exchange of fire. The operation, which began on the evening of August 1 (Friday), continues as joint teams work to clear the forested area. The news was widely reported on August 2 (Saturday) and August 3 (Sunday), by the media.
The gunfight erupted on August 1 (Friday) evening after security forces received intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the Akhal Khulsan forest area. A joint team comprising personnel from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), along with the Special Operations Group (SOG), launched a cordon and search operation.
According to the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps, the firefight continued intensely through the night. In a public statement on X, the Chinar Corps confirmed: “OP AKHAL, Kulgam. Intermittent and intense firefight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the noose while maintaining contact. One terrorist has been neutralised. Operation continues.” Subsequent reports confirmed a second neutralisation after fresh firing resumed on August 2 (Saturday) morning.
The identity and group affiliation of the neutralised terrorists are currently being ascertained by the authorities. Officials have indicated that the operation is still underway, with additional reinforcements brought in to ensure the area remains cordoned off and to prevent any escape.
This operation is part of a broader intensified drive by security forces against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, which includes targeting not only armed terrorists but also their overground workers and sympathisers. Recent successes include ‘Operation Mahadev’, which saw the elimination of terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack. Security forces are also focusing on disrupting financial networks, including drug smuggling and hawala rackets, believed to be funding terrorist activities in the region.
