Encounter Between Terrorists and Security Forces in Udhampur. Photo Credit: outlookindia
Tensions flared in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district on June 26 as a fierce encounter erupted between terrorists and security forces, raising major concerns just days before the commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra. According to Hindustan Times report, the gunfight began in the remote Bihali area near Basantgarh, where heavily armed militants engaged in a firefight with a joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police under what has been dubbed Operation Bihali.
Security officials stated that the operation was launched after receiving specific intelligence inputs about terrorist movement in the hilly terrain. Upon establishing contact, terrorists opened fire, triggering a prolonged exchange with the security forces. The ongoing operation reflects the increasing vigilance in the region following recent terror-related incidents in Jammu and Kashmir.
The encounter in Udhampur comes just a week ahead of the beginning of the Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to start on July 3. The pilgrimage attracts lakhs of devotees annually and has always been considered a high-security event, especially in sensitive districts like Anantnag, Ganderbal, and Udhampur. This year, security arrangements have been scaled up substantially to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage.
Security Apparatus on High Alert
To prevent any disruption to the Amarnath Yatra, a multi-layered security mechanism has been put in place. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, in collaboration with the Indian Army, CRPF, NDRF, and SDRF, has conducted mock drills at key locations such as the Baltal and Pahalgam base camps. These exercises are designed to coordinate responses in case of emergencies such as terror strikes or natural disasters.
More than 50,000 paramilitary personnel, including CRPF and special commando units, have been deployed along the yatra routes. Surveillance drones, bomb disposal squads, and canine units have also been stationed to monitor the situation round the clock. The entire pilgrimage route has been declared a no-fly zone, and additional checkpoints have been installed to ensure maximum vigilance.
Despite these preparations, the Udhampur encounter has heightened anxieties, particularly in light of recent attacks such as the Reasi ambush earlier this month, in which terrorists targeted a bus carrying pilgrims. Security forces have been operating under the assumption that terrorist groups may attempt similar strikes to destabilize the region and instill fear during the yatra period.
Pattern of Escalation
This latest encounter between terrorists and security forces in Udhampur appears to be part of a broader pattern of militant escalation in Jammu and Kashmir. Security experts believe that Pakistan-based terror groups may be attempting to reactivate sleeper cells and infiltrate the region ahead of the pilgrimage, hoping to target either pilgrims or security personnel.
The increased presence of foreign terrorists, use of advanced weaponry, and choice of remote mountainous terrain all indicate a well-planned strategy by hostile elements. However, security forces have responded with swift action, showing a heightened level of preparedness and coordination.
Government’s Response and Public Advisory
In response to the encounter, senior officials have reiterated that all possible steps are being taken to ensure the safety of pilgrims and the local population. The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, confirmed that the encounter in Bihali is part of an ongoing anti-terror operation and appealed to the public to remain calm but alert.
The government has issued advisories urging pilgrims to travel only through designated routes, avoid venturing into remote areas without official escorts, and follow all instructions from law enforcement agencies. Additional forces have been dispatched to reinforce vulnerable zones, and backup teams are on standby.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to the Amarnath Yatra continues, the focus remains on pre-empting any threat to the pilgrimage. The Udhampur encounter stands as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by terrorism in the region. Yet, it also showcases the readiness and resolve of Indian security forces to neutralize such threats decisively.
For now, the region remains on high alert, and further updates are expected as the operation unfolds. What remains clear is that the safety of the Amarnath pilgrims has become a top national priority—and authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that faith triumphs over fear.
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