A major search operation is underway in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district after locals reported seeing suspicious activity near a forest. According to the police, a civilian spotted three suspicious individuals in the Saladhi area of Hiranagar, which led to the launch of a joint operation by security forces. Vigilance has now been increased in the area and along the nearby highway.
A similar operation took place just last Tuesday after authorities received inputs about possible terrorist movement in the higher areas of Kathua.
In another recent development, Omar Abdullah held a meeting with his council of ministers and top officials in Baramulla, north Kashmir, to counter the fear prevailing in the Valley. This meeting followed another one held in Pahalgam, south Kashmir — just a day after a tragic terror attack there.
On April 22, terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam, a scenic valley nestled beneath snow-covered Himalayan peaks. Survivors said, “the attackers separated the men, asked several about their religion, and shot them at close range.”
All 26 people killed were Indian nationals except one from Nepal. Most victims were Hindus, and one was a Kashmiri Muslim who earned his living giving horse rides to tourists.
The attackers have not yet been caught.
In response to this incident, the Army and Border Security Force (BSF) have been deployed in sensitive areas like Rajouri and Poonch. The BSF has also stepped up security at forward positions in Jammu, Samba, and Kathua.
