One Terrorist Down in J&K's Kulgam, Army Says 'Operation Akhal' Underway

In a significant blow to terrorism in the Kashmir Valley, Indian security forces neutralized one terrorist in a fierce overnight gunbattle during ‘Operation Akhal’ in Kulgam district of Jammu & Kashmir. The terrorist has been identified as Haris Nazir Dar from Rajpora. The operation, still underway, is a testament to the unwavering commitment of India’s armed forces to root out terror from the region.

Launched late Friday evening following credible intelligence inputs, the operation targeted terrorist hideouts in the dense forests of Akhal, a known infiltration corridor in south Kashmir. As the search teams advanced through the rugged terrain, militants opened fire, triggering a heavy and sustained firefight that continued through the night.

According to the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps, ‘Intermittent and intense firefight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the noose while maintaining contact’. One terrorist was gunned down in the encounter. While officials believe he is Haris Nazir Dar from Pulwama’s Rajpora area, formal identification is underway.

Indian Forces Tighten Grip on Terror

The elimination of the terrorist marks yet another success in India’s renewed counter-terror strategy in the Union Territory. ‘Operation Akhal’ is part of a broader, coordinated offensive to flush out both local and foreign terrorists who continue to disrupt peace in the region at the behest of Pakistan-based terror outfits.

Officials confirmed that the area has been sealed, and reinforcements deployed to prevent any escape of additional militants who may be present. ‘The cordon is being strengthened, with additional personnel deployed in the area,’ said a senior police officer.

This latest operation follows back-to-back counter-terror offensives, including ‘Operation Shivshakti‘ in Poonch where two infiltrators were eliminated, and ‘Operation Mahadev‘ near Srinagar, where three top Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were neutralized by Indian forces including the mastermind of the April 22 Pahalgam attack, Sulaiman.

India’s stance is clear, any attempt to threaten its peace, integrity, or borders will be met with a swift and forceful response. Operations like Sindoor, Mahadev, and now Akhal highlight the Indian security forces’ unwavering resolve to eliminate terrorism at its roots.

These operations are not isolated events, but part of a clear and sustained counter-terror strategy. Whether it’s infiltration across the LoC or local radical networks, India will act decisively to safeguard national security and protect its citizens.

As Operation Akhal continues, the nation watches with pride and gratitude as its soldiers, undeterred by terrain or terror, push forward in defense of the motherland.