A major counter-terrorism operation is currently underway in Basantgarh, Udhampur district of Jammu & Kashmir, where security forces have tracked down and engaged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists.

 a joint operation codenamed “Operation Bihali” was launched by the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps and the J&K Police, based on precise intelligence gathered over a year  Around 8:30 AM, forces established contact with a group of four heavily armed JeM militants hiding in the dense forest of Basantgarh, Udhampur.

• One suspected JeM militant was neutralized during the heavy gunfight 

• The operation began despite foggy, rainy weather, part of heightened preparations for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra

• Three other militants remain trapped in the forest, with security forces conducting extensive follow-up sweeps

• Numerous reinforcements were mobilized ahead of the encounter to secure the area .

This incident is among several recent operations across Udhampur, Kishtwar, Bandipora, and Shopian districts, where coordinated action has led to the dismantling of terror networks 

Local Village Defence Guards and the paramilitary Special Operations Group (SOG) of the J&K Police have also aided intelligence gathering and provided critical support

• The neutralization of a terrorist actively tracked for over a year underlines the sustained intelligence efforts.

• With the Amarnath Yatra just days away (starting July 3), heightened security measures are crucial to protect pilgrims from infiltration and terror threats 

• Security forces also recovered assets and properties linked to terror suspects in Udhampur — part of a broader crackdown on terror infrastructure

Previously, an army soldier, Havildar Jhantu Ali Shaikh of 6 Para, sacrificed his life during a related encounter in April in the same district, reminding us of the risks faced by security personnel to maintain order and peace

This ongoing operation in Udhampur highlights the resilience and preparedness of India’s security apparatus. Through intelligence-driven actions and strong local collaboration, security forces are actively protecting the region, especially amid high-risk periods like the Amarnath Yatra.

The efforts reassert India's commitment to safety and vigilance, refusing to let militants disrupt peace. Authorities continue their mission until all identified threats are neutralized — keeping citizens and pilgrims safe.