On Friday, two Army jawans were martyred in a significant exchange of gunfire between security forces and militants in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The intense confrontation took place in the Pingnal Dugadda forest, located in the upper reaches of Naidgham village within the Chhatroo area. According to a police spokesperson, the clash began when militants fired upon a joint team of security personnel and Jammu & Kashmir Police who were conducting search operations in the region. Reports indicate that two to three militants are believed to be hiding in the forest, prompting additional reinforcements to the area.
Recent Developments
This tragic incident follows a series of confrontations in the region. Recently, security forces had neutralized two militants in Udhampur district. The timing of this skirmish is particularly notable as it coincides with heightened security measures in anticipation of the first phase of polling in Kishtwar scheduled for September 18.
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Increased Security Measures
In light of the upcoming elections, security has been significantly ramped up across Kishtwar and neighboring districts, including Doda and Ramban. Additional forces have been deployed to protect residential areas and polling stations. Ongoing search operations are also being conducted in forested regions to locate and neutralize any remaining threats.
Official Responses and Preparations
Senior officials from the police and security forces have been dispatched to Doda to assess and bolster the security situation in preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the area on Saturday. The visit will include a public meeting, adding further urgency to the security arrangements.
Recent Violent Incidents
In recent months, the region has experienced a series of violent incidents. Nearly a dozen individuals, including two Army Captains and seven soldiers, have been killed in separate attacks across Doda, Udhampur, and Kathua districts. Additionally, three militants were neutralized in a recent operation in the Gandoh area of Doda district.
The situation remains tense as security forces continue their efforts to stabilize the region and ensure the safety of residents and the electoral process.
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