A fresh encounter erupted on Tuesday in the Billawar area of Kathua district, Jammu and Kashmir, between security forces and terrorists, officials confirmed. The exchange of gunfire began after Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) opened fire on a patrolling team during a cordon and search operation, prompting a swift response from the security personnel.

Details of the encounter

The firing was reported from the Najote forest area of Billawar, situated roughly 10 kilometers from Kamadh Nallah within the Kahog forest belt, according to PTI reports. Sources indicated that the terrorists fired at the security forces upon observing their movement during the operation. In response, the forces retaliated while advancing deeper into the forest to neutralize the threat.

Officials stated that the cordon and search operation was immediately reinforced to prevent the terrorists from escaping. Efforts are ongoing to track down the ultras and ensure the area is secured. The operation involves multiple units of the security forces, including local police, the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group, and central forces deployed in the region.

Context of the operation

The encounter follows a series of counter-terror measures in the Kathua district in recent days. Security forces had previously conducted search operations in the region after receiving intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists in the forested areas. This latest gunfight occurred after officials received specific information suggesting the presence of two to three militants hiding in the Najote forest, prompting the operation on Wednesday.

The Billawar area, located near the international border, has been a known hideout for terrorist groups attempting to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir. Over the years, security forces have carried out multiple anti-terror operations in the region, targeting cadres of Pakistan-based outfits, including JeM and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Security response

Officials emphasized that the operation is ongoing and urged civilians in the vicinity to remain cautious and avoid the forested areas while security forces conduct their mission. The forces are taking a methodical approach to ensure minimal civilian casualties while neutralizing the threat posed by the terrorists.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has also increased surveillance and security measures in nearby towns and villages to prevent any possible escalation and to secure the local population. Helicopters, drones, and ground teams are being deployed for reconnaissance and tracking movements in the dense forest areas.

Broader implications

This incident underscores the continuing threat posed by Pakistan-based terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir, despite increased security deployments and counter-infiltration measures. JeM, in particular, has been involved in several high-profile attacks in the region and continues to plan operations targeting security forces and civilians.

The encounter also reflects the heightened vigilance and proactive approach of Indian security forces in forested and border-adjacent regions, where militants often hide to avoid detection. Such operations are part of a larger strategy to prevent terrorist infiltration and ensure safety for residents in vulnerable districts like Kathua.

Ongoing situation

As of now, no official reports have confirmed casualties on either side. Security forces continue to cordon the area and are systematically clearing the forest to locate and apprehend the militants. Authorities have stated that updates will be provided as the situation evolves.

The encounter comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed increased activity from terrorist outfits in multiple districts. The local administration and security agencies are maintaining heightened alert across the region, ensuring quick response to any attempted infiltration or attacks.

The operation highlights the persistent challenges faced by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, where militants use difficult terrain, forested belts, and cross-border support to evade capture. Continuous intelligence gathering, surveillance, and coordinated action by multiple security agencies remain critical to maintaining peace and safety in these sensitive areas.

The situation in Billawar and surrounding regions remains fluid, and authorities are monitoring developments closely to prevent any further escalation and to secure the area fully.