In a major anti-terror breakthrough, security forces neutralized Junaid Ahmed Bhat, a wanted A-category terrorist affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba ( LeT ), during an encounter in Dachigam’s upper mountain region near Srinagar. Bhat was responsible for multiple attacks, including the killing of seven civilians and injuring five others at a tunnel construction site in Ganderbal district in October.
The Operation in Dachigam
The operation began as a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) following intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area. Security personnel, including the Rashtriya Rifles, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other forces, launched the mission on Monday. A heavy exchange of fire was reported as the encounter intensified.
With the arrival of first light on Tuesday, the forces resumed their offensive and successfully neutralized Junaid. The Kashmir Zone Police confirmed the development via social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“One terrorist is killed and has been identified as Junaid Ahmed Bhat ( LeT , Category A). The said terrorist was involved in civilian killings at Gagangir, Ganderbal, and several other terror attacks.”
The area remains cordoned off as the operation continues to ensure no other terrorists are hiding in the vicinity.
Junaid Ahmed Bhat: A Notorious Figure
Bhat had a long history of terror activities and was linked to numerous attacks in the region. He orchestrated the chilling assault in October on the under-construction Z-Mohr tunnel in Ganderbal’s Gund area, targeting workers of a private company. The attack left six migrant workers and a doctor dead. The brazen act sent shockwaves across the nation and underscored the persistent threat of militancy in Jammu and Kashmir.
Background of the Dachigam Region
Dachigam, known for its national park, spans 141 square kilometers and is a significant ecological and strategic zone on the outskirts of Srinagar. The rugged terrain and forest cover often provide a haven for militants, making it a critical area for counter-insurgency operations.
Impact and Ongoing Efforts
This successful operation marks a significant victory in the security forces’ relentless campaign against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. It also highlights the effectiveness of coordinated intelligence and strategic planning. The security establishment has maintained heightened vigilance in response to increasing infiltration attempts and terror activities, particularly in regions with strategic infrastructure projects.
Ganderbal Tunnel Attack: A Grim Reminder
The October attack on the Z-Mohr tunnel remains one of the most heinous acts attributed to Bhat. Targeting unarmed workers, the attack aimed to spread fear and disrupt developmental projects crucial to the region’s progress. The latest operation sends a strong message of zero tolerance toward terrorism, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of civilians and national infrastructure.
Conclusion
As the operation in Dachigam unfolds, security forces continue their vigilance to neutralize remaining threats. The elimination of Junaid Ahmed Bhat is a significant milestone in curbing militancy in the valley, ensuring justice for the victims of his heinous crimes.
Sidenote: This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
