On the morning of May 15, 2025, a fresh encounter erupted in the Nader Tral area of Awantipora, Pulwama district, after security forces received credible intelligence input about the presence of terrorists in the region. Acting swiftly, the Indian Army, J&K Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a coordinated cordon and search operation. The situation turned volatile when the hiding terrorists opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange. According to Kashmir Police’s official post on X (formerly Twitter), the forces swiftly retaliated and cornered the suspects. The area remains under tight surveillance, and intermittent firing is ongoing as the operation intensifies.

Pulwama Operation Linked to Wider Anti-Terror Campaign in Kashmir

This fresh Pulwama encounter is not an isolated event but a part of a larger crackdown in South Kashmir under India’s ongoing anti-terror operations. Just two days ago, three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists were neutralized during ‘Operation Keller’ in the Shopian district. Intelligence agencies believe that today’s incident may involve the same network of militants attempting to regroup after recent setbacks. The high-alert status across Kashmir post the Pahalgam terror attack has led to heightened coordination among the Army, Police, and CRPF units to hunt down and dismantle militant groups operating in the Valley.

Operation Keller: A Major Blow to Lashkar-e-Taiba in Shopian

Launched on May 13, ‘Operation Keller’ was a decisive counter-terror action that successfully eliminated three LeT operatives in the Shukroo forest area of Shopian. Among those killed was Shahid Kuttay, a top category-A LeT commander who had joined terror ranks in 2023. Kuttay’s killing marks a significant victory for security forces, as he was believed to be one of the masterminds behind several attacks in Kashmir, including the deadly Pahalgam incident. A large cache of arms, grenades, and tactical equipment was recovered during the operation, confirming the militants’ preparedness for a prolonged engagement.

Operation Sindoor and the Aftermath of the Pahalgam Attack

These encounters come in the wake of ‘Operation Sindoor’—India’s national response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists. Launched on May 7, Operation Sindoor represents India’s zero-tolerance stance on cross-border terrorism. Prime Minister Modi, during his address on May 12, reaffirmed the government’s firm policy: “Water and blood cannot flow together,” referencing the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty. The joint efforts of military intelligence, local police, and central paramilitary forces under Sindoor’s framework have since led to a series of successful operations, with more expected in the coming weeks.

Security Tightened Across Kashmir as Operations Continue

As security forces remain engaged in Tral, the broader situation across Kashmir remains tense. Officials have sealed off several entry and exit points in the Awantipora region to prevent the terrorists from fleeing. Civilian movement has been restricted to ensure safety, and reinforcements have been deployed. This continuing wave of operations highlights India’s intensified counter-terror focus, with commanders emphasizing both preemptive intelligence gathering and rapid on-ground mobilization. As the Pulwama operation unfolds, it signals not only the state’s proactive defence strategy but also a strong message that India’s resolve to eliminate terrorism is firmer than ever.

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Source : hindustantimes.com