A major terrorist encounter erupted in Jammu & Kashmir’s Kathua district on March 28, 2025, resulting in the martyrdom of three brave policemen and the elimination of two heavily armed terrorists. The gunbattle, which lasted several hours, also left five security personnel, including a senior police officer, injured.
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This incident once again underscores the persistent terror threats in the region and the relentless vigilance of Indian security forces in combating terrorism.
How the Encounter Unfolded – A Detailed Timeline
Intelligence Input and Search Operation Begins
- Security agencies had received specific intelligence inputs indicating terrorist movement in the Juthana forest area of Kathua.
- Acting swiftly, a joint team comprising the Jammu & Kashmir Police (JKP), Special Operations Group (SOG), and the Indian Army launched a search operation in the region.
- The forces sealed off the area to prevent the terrorists from escaping.
Ambush by Terrorists – Heavy Exchange of Fire
- As the security forces closed in on the suspected hideout, the terrorists opened fire indiscriminately using automatic weapons and grenades.
- The forces retaliated, leading to a fierce gun battle that lasted several hours.
- Gunfire and explosions echoed through the dense forest as security personnel strategically advanced towards the militant hideout.
Martyrdom and Injuries in the Line of Duty
- Three policemen gave their lives in the fight against the terrorists.
- Five security personnel sustained injuries, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), who was leading the operation.
- The injured were immediately airlifted to a military hospital for urgent medical attention.
Neutralization of Terrorists
- Despite facing heavy resistance, the security forces managed to eliminate two terrorists.
- The operation was conducted with precision to prevent civilian casualties, as the area had dense vegetation and hilly terrain.
Who Were the Terrorists? Investigations Underway
Links to Pakistan-Based Terror Groups Suspected
- Preliminary reports suggest that the neutralized terrorists were affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) or Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)—terror outfits known for orchestrating cross-border attacks in India.
- Intelligence agencies are now analyzing call logs, recovered weapons, and seized documents to establish their network and possible handlers across the border.
Arms and Ammunition Recovered from Terrorists
Security forces seized a large cache of weapons and equipment, including:
- AK-47 assault rifles
- Hand grenades
- Satellite communication devices
- High-powered binoculars for surveillance
Government and Public Reactions
Official Statements & Condolences
- J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of the policemen and reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.
- The Director General of Police (DGP) of J&K, RR Swain, commended the security forces for their swift action and assured that such terror attempts would be met with a strict hand.
Security on High Alert Post-Encounter
In the aftermath of the encounter, security forces have:
- Launched additional search operations in the region
- Increased border surveillance to prevent infiltrations
- Deployed drones for real-time monitoring
Moving Forward – A Defining Moment in India’s Fight Against Terrorism
The Kathua encounter serves as a stark reminder of the persistent terrorism challenge in Jammu & Kashmir. While security forces continue to dismantle these networks, terror outfits remain active, posing a severe national security threat.
The elimination of these militants sends a clear message: India’s forces remain resolute in their mission to protect national sovereignty and combat terrorism.
By – Nikita
