Security Forces Kill Two Militants in Kulgam Forest Operation: Day 3

Security forces continued a joint anti-militancy operation in the Akhal forest area of Kulgam district for the third straight day on Sunday. The Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the CRPF launched the operation on Friday night.

They had received specific input about the presence of militants in the area. Forces moved in and set up a cordon. Militants opened fire, triggering an encounter.

Two Militants Killed So Far

Troops killed one militant during the initial exchange late Friday night. They killed another militant on Saturday morning after fresh firing broke out.

The identity of the militants is still being confirmed. Police suspect they may have links with a banned outfit active in South Kashmir.

One Soldier Injured

One soldier suffered injuries during the operation. Authorities evacuated him quickly and shifted him to a nearby Army hospital. Doctors said he is stable.

The forces did not report any other injuries so far.

Search Operation Still Underway

Security teams continued their search in the dense forest area on Sunday. They used drones and sniffer dogs to scan for more hidden militants. Officials say they want to clear the entire zone before calling off the operation.

They have not yet confirmed how many militants remain at large.

Context Linked to Pahalgam Attack

Officials linked the operation to the broader crackdown that followed the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. That attack killed 26 civilians and led to multiple operations across South Kashmir.

Forces earlier killed the main suspects of that attack in July under Operation Mahadev. Operation Akhal is the latest step in that effort.

Situation Under Control

Senior officials from the police and Army are monitoring the situation on ground. They assured the public that the area is under control and there is no threat to civilians nearby.

The administration has not imposed any curfew or restrictions in the region so far.