Two terrorists were killed and two Indian Army soldiers lost their lives in a fierce encounter in the forest area of Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir. The joint operation, involving the Indian Army, J&K Police, and CRPF, was launched early Monday morning after intelligence inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the dense Guddar forest. As the security forces approached the suspected location, terrorists opened fire, leading to a prolonged gunfight.

In the initial exchange, one terrorist was neutralized while three soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), sustained serious injuries. Despite evacuation to a military hospital in Srinagar, two soldiers—Subedar Perbhat Gaur and Lance Naik Narender Sindhu—succumbed to their wounds. The encounter continued throughout the day, culminating in the killing of a second terrorist. Among the slain militants was identified Amir Bashir, a local militant active since September 2023 and reportedly linked with Lashkar-e-Taiba. Another killed terrorist was a foreign infiltrator known as “Rehman Bhai,” active in the region for several years.

The operation, referred to as "Operation Guddar," reflects ongoing security challenges in south Kashmir, where infiltration and militant activities persist despite the ceasefire declared since February 2021. Security agencies suspect that at least one more militant might still be hiding in the forested area. Surveillance with drones and specialized para commandos continues, with the area cordoned off under tight security.

This encounter highlights the harsh realities faced by Indian armed forces in Kashmir's rugged terrains, where soldiers risk their lives to maintain peace and security. Their sacrifice underscores the ongoing conflict’s human cost, emphasizing the need for pursuing long-term peace and reconciliation efforts in the region. Local residents and officials remain vigilant, as such incidents raise concerns about stability and safety in the Kashmir Valley. The commitment of the military personnel and the coordinated efforts of various security forces demonstrate the sustained resolve to counter militancy and protect lives. Meanwhile, the search operation remains active to neutralize any remaining threat in Kulgam.

This incident adds to the list of recent clashes and encounters in Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the complex security scenario that continues to demand rigorous intelligence gathering, tactical operations, and community cooperation to contain militant activities. The fallen soldiers were honored for their bravery and supreme sacrifice, with military officials paying tribute to their dedication to the nation. The incident also serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing conflict's toll on India's armed forces and local communities in Jammu and Kashmir. Overall, while the immediate threat was countered successfully, the region remains on high alert as authorities work to ensure no further militant presence lingers in the forested area of Kulgam.