An intense gunbattle broke out on Tuesday between security forces and militants in the Nagmarg area of Bandipora, North Kashmir. Based on reliable intelligence about the militants’ presence, a swift joint operation was launched by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police. The operation began with a cordon and search after suspicious activity was detected, resulting in a violent exchange of gunfire. It is believed that two to three militants remain trapped, and the operation is ongoing.
The 15 Corps of Srinagar shared an update on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “On 12 Nov 24, based on specific intelligence about terrorists’ presence, a joint operation was launched by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police in the Nagmarg area of Bandipora. Suspicious activity was observed by alert troops, and when challenged, the terrorists opened fire. Our forces responded effectively. The operation continues.”
This encounter follows a tragic incident in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Sunday, where a junior commissioned officer (JCO) from the Army’s 2 Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) was killed in a gunfight with militants. Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, from Barnog village in Himachal Pradesh, suffered fatal injuries during the clash. He leaves behind his wife, two children, and his 90-year-old mother.
The violence in Jammu and Kashmir has been a growing concern this year, with 16 security personnel, 10 civilians, and three Village Defence Guards (VDGs) losing their lives in various attacks. In retaliation, security forces have successfully neutralized 13 militants in Jammu and 24 in Kashmir, part of ongoing efforts to combat militancy and restore peace to the region.