In a continuing operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora district, two Indian soldiers sustained injuries during an encounter with terrorists that erupted on the night of April 24, 2025. This confrontation comes just days after the brutal Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, mostly tourists, sparking a massive crackdown by security forces in the Valley.

According to official reports, the gunfight broke out in the Bazipora area of Kulnar, a region surrounded by dense forests, often used by militants for concealment and strategic advantage. Acting on credible intelligence inputs indicating the presence of terrorists suspected to be involved in the Pahalgam attack, security personnel launched a cordon and search operation late Thursday night.

During the operation, heavily armed militants opened fire upon security forces, triggering an intense exchange of fire. Two jawans were injured in the initial rounds of firing and were immediately evacuated to a nearby army medical facility. As of the last update, their condition is reported to be stable, and additional medical assistance has been mobilized.

Terrorist Hideouts in Focus

The Kulnar-Bazipora belt is known for its thick foliage and difficult terrain, making it a preferred hiding spot for terrorists, especially those affiliated with Pakistan-based outfits such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The region has remained under the security radar following several intelligence alerts indicating cross-border infiltration attempts and movement of foreign-trained terrorists post the Pahalgam incident.

This encounter is being closely linked to the aftermath of the Pahalgam massacre, which officials suspect was carried out by a group of five to seven terrorists, including locally aided militants trained in Pakistan. Security forces believe that some of these perpetrators may have retreated into Bandipora’s dense forests to evade detection after the attack.

Response from Security Agencies

An official from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, on the condition of anonymity, revealed that inter-agency coordination is at its highest level. Units from the Rashtriya Rifles, CRPF, and J&K Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG) are involved in the joint operation. Drones, sniffer dogs, and advanced surveillance equipment are being used to track and neutralise the holed-up militants.

“The area has been sealed completely, and additional forces have been rushed in to ensure there are no escape routes left for the terrorists. We are confident of wrapping up the operation soon,” the senior officer said.

Pahalgam Terror Attack Fallout

The recent Pahalgam attack on April 22 has intensified the counter-terror operations across South and North Kashmir, particularly in Pulwama, Anantnag, and Bandipora districts. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is reportedly receiving hourly updates on the ground situation, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed security agencies to adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism.

As part of the crackdown, houses of terrorists linked to the Pahalgam attack have been demolished in recent days. On April 24, the house of Asif Sheikh, an alleged local LeT commander, was blown up in a blast during a search operation in Pulwama. Likewise, the residence of Adil Thokar alias Adil Guree in Bijbehara was also razed as authorities intensify pressure on the terror ecosystem operating within the Union Territory.

Security Status in Kashmir

Since the attack, the entire Kashmir Valley has seen heightened security measures, including:

• Increased patrolling in tourist hubs like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar.

• Multiple check posts and roadblocks on major highways and district routes.

• Suspension of mobile internet services in high-risk zones to prevent information leakage.

Public Sentiment and Political Response

The public outrage against the Pahalgam attack remains palpable, with civil society groups and political leaders demanding swift justice and accountability. Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti condemned the attack while urging the Centre to address the root causes of militancy. On the other hand, leaders from the BJP have called for a full-scale operation to cleanse the region of any terror infrastructure.

The families of the victims from the Pahalgam incident are also calling for strict action against sympathisers and harbourers of terrorists. Security agencies are said to be compiling a list of over 50 suspected individuals across South Kashmir who may be indirectly involved through logistical, communication, or financial support.

Looking Ahead

As the Bandipora operation continues, all eyes remain on the successful elimination of the militants involved, especially if any connections to the Pahalgam attack are formally established. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is also expected to join the probe, particularly to track funding routes, training origins, and terrorist handlers operating from across the border.

Meanwhile, residents in Bandipora and surrounding areas have been advised to stay indoors, and schools in the vicinity have been temporarily shut down. Authorities are ensuring minimum civilian movement to avoid any collateral damage during the ongoing encounter.

This fresh encounter underscores the volatile security situation in Kashmir, even as the region inches closer to summer — typically the peak tourist season. With the resumption of targeted operations and surveillance, the Indian security apparatus is leaving no stone unturned to ensure peace and stability in the Union Territory.

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