Eight Soldiers Injured in Jammu and Kashmir Terrorist Encounter

An intense firefight between security forces and terrorists in the upper reaches of Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district has resulted in injuries to eight army personnel. The encounter, spanning several hours, occurred in the rugged, forested terrain of the district. Security forces have intensified a search operation in the area and deployed additional personnel. The operation, codenamed 'Operation Trashi-I' by the army's White Knight Corps, commenced after intelligence indicated the presence of terrorists in the Sonar area, northeast of Chatro. The joint team of the army and Jammu and Kashmir Police engaged with the militants, leading to sustained firing. The army reported that soldiers responded bravely despite challenging geographical conditions. Reinforcements have been deployed to strengthen the cordon, with civilian administration and other security agencies also involved. Authorities suspect 2 to 3 foreign terrorists, reportedly linked to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, were involved, who resorted to indiscriminate firing and hurled grenades to break the cordon. The injured soldiers, treated for pellet injuries, have been hospitalized. Drones, sniffer dogs, and advanced surveillance equipment are being utilized in the ongoing search. This marks the third encounter with terrorists in the Jammu region this year, with heightened security in place ahead of Republic Day.