Security forces have re established contact with terrorists in the Dolgam area of Jammu and Kashmir Kishtwar district as part of the ongoing Operation Trashi I. The renewed contact occurred early Saturday as joint teams of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces intensified efforts to track down and neutralise militants hiding in the region.
Operation Trashi I was launched on January 18 following specific intelligence inputs indicating the presence of Jaish e Mohammad terrorists in the Kishtwar area. The initial encounter took place on the same day, triggering a large scale cordon and search operation in the surrounding forested terrain. Security forces have since been maintaining pressure on the militants, despite difficult weather and geographical challenges.
According to officials, two additional encounters occurred on January 22 and January 25. However, the terrorists managed to evade capture by slipping deeper into the dense forests of the snowbound region. The rugged terrain, heavy snowfall, and limited visibility have posed operational challenges, slowing movement and surveillance efforts.
Despite these obstacles, security forces continued sustained search operations using advanced surveillance equipment, drones, and ground patrols. The re establishment of contact in the Dolgam area indicates that forces have been able to narrow down the terrorists’ movement and restrict their escape routes.
Sources within the security establishment said that three Jaish e Mohammad terrorists are believed to be holed up in the area. The operation is being carried out with heightened caution to ensure the safety of security personnel while preventing the militants from escaping into nearby regions.
Kishtwar district has witnessed increased counter terror operations in recent years due to its strategic location and forest cover, which has been exploited by terrorist groups for infiltration and hideouts. Security agencies have strengthened intelligence coordination and ground presence to prevent such activities.
Officials reiterated that operations will continue until the area is fully sanitised. Additional reinforcements have been deployed, and multiple layers of cordon have been established to prevent any movement by the terrorists. Civilian movement in sensitive areas has been restricted as a precautionary measure.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has urged residents to cooperate with security forces and avoid venturing into forested zones during the ongoing operation. Authorities have also assured that all necessary steps are being taken to minimise inconvenience to civilians while maintaining security.
Operation Trashi I reflects the continued focus of security forces on eliminating terrorist threats and maintaining peace in the region. Further updates are expected as the operation progresses and the situation develops on the ground.
