Kulgam Operation Enters Day 4: One Terrorist Killed, Search Still On in Jammu & Kashmir

An intense anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district has stretched into its fourth day, with security forces neutralising one terrorist so far. The ongoing encounter in Akhal village under Devsar region highlights the persistence of militancy in south Kashmir and the continued efforts by forces to flush out threats. As the operation continues, tension remains high in the surrounding areas.

Ground Situation in Kulgam
The encounter began after specific intelligence inputs led to a cordon-and-search operation in the Akhal area. As the security personnel moved in, they were fired upon, triggering a prolonged exchange of gunfire. Officials confirmed that one terrorist has been killed, but they believe more may still be hiding in the area.

Troops from the Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police are jointly conducting the operation, which involves clearing dense residential pockets and nearby forested areas.

Why This Area Matters
Kulgam, in south Kashmir, has remained a hotspot for terror-related activity over the years. While overall violence in the region has reduced, periodic encounters like this serve as a reminder that the situation remains volatile.

For residents of Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across India who may view Kashmir’s conflict as distant, incidents like these underline the ongoing complexities faced by those living in the region, including disrupted lives, fear of violence, and extended lockdowns during such operations.

Impact on Civilians
Local life in Akhal and nearby villages has come to a standstill. Schools are shut, markets remain closed, and internet services have been suspended as a precautionary measure. The search operation is being conducted with caution to avoid civilian casualties, but the prolonged presence of security forces has created unease among the locals.

The administration has asked people to stay indoors until the area is declared safe.

Security Forces Stay on High Alert
Officials have indicated that more militants could be hiding in the vicinity, and the search may continue for another day or more depending on new intelligence inputs. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to ensure the perimeter is sealed tightly and that the operation is concluded without further casualties.

Conclusion
The Kulgam encounter serves as yet another chapter in the long-running security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. While the killing of one terrorist is a significant step, the extended duration of the operation shows how entrenched some militant elements still are. For many in India, these updates may seem routine—but for those living in or near such zones, each day of gunfire means another day of uncertainty