Jammu, Feb 9:
Security forces have intensified their vigil in the Chatroo belt of Kishtwar district after the Indian Army opened fire on Sunday evening following the observation of “suspicious movement” in the forested terrain.
The incident has triggered a massive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) as part of the ongoing Operation Trashi-I, which has been active in the region for over three weeks.
Precautionary Fire and Cordon
According to official sources, the firing was initiated by troops as a precautionary measure after detecting movement in the dense undergrowth near the Chatroo area. Immediately following the shots, a joint team of the Indian Army, Jammu & Kashmir Police, and CRPF cordoned off the entire sector to prevent any possible escape.
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Location: Chatroo area, Kishtwar District.
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Time: Sunday evening, February 8.
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Action: Precautionary fire followed by a multi-tier cordon.
Context: Operation Trashi-I
The latest activity is part of a sustained counter-terror effort titled Operation Trashi-I, launched on January 18. The region has seen significant activity over the past month:
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January 18-19: A fierce gunfight in the Singhpora area resulted in the loss of Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces.
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February 4: Security forces successfully neutralized a terrorist in the Dichhar area of Kishtwar.
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Current Status: Search parties, including troops from the 7 Assam Rifles, are currently combing the snow-clad and rugged jungles to track down remaining militants believed to be hiding in natural caves and thick vegetation.
Security Assessment
Security agencies have been on high alert following intelligence reports of war-hardened militants attempting to exploit the mountainous terrain. A bounty of ₹5 lakh remains on several suspected terrorists believed to be operating in the Kishtwar-Doda belt.
Residents in the nearby hamlets have been advised to remain cautious as the search operation continues deep into the forest.
