An intense encounter broke out on Thursday between security forces and terrorists in the Kuru area of Basantgarh in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district, just days ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra set to commence on July 3. The joint operation, named Operation Bihali, was launched by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police based on specific intelligence inputs.
According to an official update shared by the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the forces established contact with the terrorists during the operation. “Op BIHALI. Based on specific intelligence, a joint operation was launched by #IndianArmy and @JmuKmrPolice in the Bihali area of #Basantgarh. Contact has been established with #terrorists. The #operation is currently in progress,” the post read.
This high-alert operation comes at a critical time, with lakhs of pilgrims expected to arrive in the region for the Amarnath Yatra, which concludes on August 9. The security forces have significantly ramped up their vigilance to ensure the safety of devotees, especially in sensitive and remote areas like Basantgarh.
The ongoing encounter is also being viewed in connection with a series of recent operations aimed at countering cross-border terrorism. Notably, Operation Bihali follows Operation Sindoor, conducted on May 7, where Indian forces struck nine terror infrastructure hubs across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and parts of Punjab province. That operation reportedly led to the elimination of over 100 terrorists and severely impacted terror logistics.
Thursday’s action is a stark reminder of the threat posed by terrorist elements in the region, especially with the memory still fresh of the brutal Pahalgam terror attack in April that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.
Despite the continuous threats, the courage and quick response of security forces have played a vital role in preventing potential harm to civilians. Their timely action in Basantgarh has helped neutralize threats just as preparations for the yatra are being finalized.
As of now, the operation in the Bihali area remains active, with reinforcements and surveillance operations underway. The authorities have assured that every measure is being taken to ensure a safe and peaceful pilgrimage for the thousands of devotees expected to arrive in the days ahead.
