Security forces launch anti‑terror operations against Jaish terrorists in Kishtwar, J&K; internet suspended to prevent misuse while searches intensify in forested regions.
Security forces have launched a major anti-terror operation in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, targeting suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad militants believed to be hiding in the district's dense forested areas.
The move comes amid heightened intelligence alerts after recent reports of terrorist activity. Authorities have temporarily suspended internet services in several villages to prevent misuse and ensure the smooth execution of the search operation.
Helicopters, drones, and ground troops are being deployed as forces intensify efforts to locate and neutralise the militants, while residents are advised to remain cautious and follow official instructions.
Security forces in Kishtwar have launched a major anti-terror operation targeting Jaish-e-Mohammad militants, concentrating on the Chatroo area and surrounding forest belts. Joint teams are actively searching for militants, and officials say the deployment reflects the seriousness of recent intelligence inputs suggesting terrorist presence in the region.
The ongoing operation, described by officials as an intelligence‑led search and destroy mission, has seen security forces deploy drones and helicopters over the dense Chatroo forest belt to track down militants. Searches are underway in areas such as Singpura, Arigam Dwathar, and Naidgam.
So far, troops have not made direct contact with the terrorists, and the operation remains active. The deployment reflects the seriousness with which authorities are treating recent intelligence inputs suggesting militants may be taking shelter in the region’s difficult terrain.
To support the operation and maintain public safety, the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department ordered a temporary suspension of mobile internet services — including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G- in select parts of Kishtwar.
The suspension, which covers villages within a six‑kilometre radius around the operation zones, is effective from January 29 to January 30, 2026. Authorities said the step aims to reduce the risk of data misuse by anti‑national elements and help ensure public order and safety during the security operation.
Kishtwar has emerged as a sensitive region in recent months, with security forces launching multiple search operations after intelligence inputs suggested the movement of terrorists, including those linked to Jaish‑e‑Mohammad (JeM).
In recent weeks, forces have intensified combing operations in the dense forests, mobilising additional troops and even discovering a well‑stocked bunker and supplies used by militants during earlier encounters. Such findings underscore the complex and covert preparations undertaken within the region, making it a priority for security agencies.
These ongoing operations form part of a broader strategy to curb terror networks that operate across Jammu and Kashmir and exploit remote terrains for shelter and staging attacks.
Officials said the operation brings together multiple units, including the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other specialised groups. Teams have cordoned off suspected regions and are conducting detailed searches of hideouts and forested paths.
Use of aerial surveillance, night vision devices and drones has enhanced the forces’ ability to monitor movements across difficult stretches of terrain. The combined strategy aims to prevent militants from escaping and to ensure civilian safety in nearby villages.
Kishtwar has seen multiple counter‑terror engagements over the past year, some resulting in intense firefights and injuries among security personnel. The district’s history as a flashpoint for militant activity — including encounters linked with Jaish‑e‑Mohammad — has made it a recurring focus of heightened security operations coordinated by police and military units.
The terrain’s harshness, combined with scattered forest belts, makes the search challenging. That reality has led forces to adopt layered, intelligence‑driven tactics combining ground search parties with aerial support to maximise coverage and safety.
The temporary mobile internet suspension has affected daily communications for residents in Singhpora, Chingam, and Chatroo. Authorities have said such measures are routine during intense security operations to prevent misuse of services that might help hostile elements plan or execute violent acts.
Local administrations have advised residents to rely on landlines and emergency channels for essential communication and stay updated through official channels as the situation evolves.
With operations still underway, security agencies have said they will continue their search until the suspected terrorist group is located and neutralised. Efforts to maintain perimeter security and prevent militant escape routes remain a priority.
As the night progresses and forces adjust their strategy to the changing terrain and conditions, officials have urged calm among civilians and stressed that such actions are undertaken to protect lives and ensure long‑term peace in the region.
