Operation KIYA: Security Forces Crush Terror Threat in Jammu and Kashmir’s Basantgarh After Intense 20-Hour Hunt
In a major counter-terrorism success, Indian security forces eliminated two Pakistani terrorists after a prolonged and carefully executed operation in the remote Basantgarh region of Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir.
The intense operation, which lasted over 20 hours, was carried out deep inside forested terrain — an area long known as a traditional infiltration route for militants entering the region.
One of the neutralised terrorists has been identified as Avu Mayia, a senior commander of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad, who had reportedly been operating in the area for several years.
Precision Strike by Joint Forces
The successful mission, codenamed Operation KIYA, was confirmed by the Nagrota-based White Knight Corps.
According to the Army, the operation was launched after receiving precise intelligence inputs from the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Troops from CIF Delta, in coordination with police and the Central Reserve Police Force, swiftly sealed off the forest area to block escape routes.
Security forces established contact with the terrorists a day earlier and maintained relentless pressure, preventing them from slipping away.
After a measured and tactical response, both militants were neutralised.
The Army praised the operation for its flawless coordination, discipline, and professionalism, stating that it reflected the strong synergy between different security agencies.
A Longtime Terror Corridor
Basantgarh lies close to the Bani region of Kathua district on one side and Doda district on the other — a stretch that has historically been used by terrorists infiltrating from across the border since the mid-1990s.
After a brief lull, the area has again witnessed increased militant movement over the last two years, prompting frequent search and combing operations by security forces.
The region has also seen sacrifices in recent times. An Army havildar was killed during a gunfight with terrorists in Basantgarh in April last year.
Review Before the Operation
Just a week before this encounter, the General Officer Commanding of the White Knight Corps, Prasanna Kishore Mishra, had visited Basantgarh to assess the security situation.
During his visit to forward posts, he interacted with soldiers and urged them to remain alert, proactive, and fully prepared to counter evolving threats in the region.
Ongoing Hunt in Nearby Forests
Meanwhile, joint forces continue massive search operations in the dense Chhatru forests, where three terrorists linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad escaped following an encounter on January 18 in the Singhpora area.
That earlier clash claimed the life of an Army havildar and left seven soldiers injured.
Since then, troops — supported by drones and sniffer dogs — have been carrying out large-scale operations. Though contact was re-established multiple times, the terrorists managed to evade capture.
Strong Message to Terror Networks
The successful neutralisation of senior militants in Basantgarh sends a strong signal to terror groups attempting to revive their presence in Jammu’s hilly belts.
Security agencies remain on high alert, determined to dismantle remaining networks and prevent further infiltration.
