Winter Net Tightens in Chenab Valley as Forces Corner JeM Operatives in Kishtwar

A tense counter-terror sweep is unfolding in the rugged forests of eastern Jammu and Kashmir after security forces closed in on militants linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad in Kishtwar district, officials said on Sunday.

The encounter zone lies in the Singhpura belt near Chhatru, where troops and police established contact with suspected terrorists during a coordinated search in difficult, high-altitude terrain.

The operation, launched on precise intelligence inputs, escalated when militants opened fire—prompting a swift and disciplined response by the cordon teams.

Confirming the engagement, the Nagrota-based White Knight Corps said troops detected hostile movement in the Son Nar area, northeast of Chhatru, and responded with “exceptional professionalism” despite harsh conditions.

Reinforcements were rushed in to tighten the ring, with close coordination among the Army, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, and civil authorities.

This marks the first exchange of fire in 2026 and the second such incident in roughly two months, signalling renewed militant attempts to regroup in the Chenab Valley.

Intelligence assessments indicate two small terrorist cells—seven operatives in all—are active in the area, allegedly led by Pakistani nationals Saifullah Balochi and Adil.

Security planners believe winter is the moment to strike. Heavy snowfall in the upper reaches constricts militant movement, shrinking escape routes across the forests of Kishtwar district and neighbouring Doda.

Estimates suggest as many as 35 Pakistani terrorists could be hiding across these mountains—an assessment that has driven an intensified, intelligence-led campaign through the cold months.

As operations continue, forces remain locked in a patient, methodical hunt—using terrain, weather, and coordination to their advantage—to deny militants sanctuary and dismantle networks attempting to re-establish a foothold in the region.

 Kishtwar Encounter: Operation Still Ongoing, Cordon Intact

The counter-terror operation in the Singhpura–Chhatru area of Kishtwar district is still underway, with security forces maintaining a tight cordon around the forested encounter site. The operation has not been called off or concluded as of now.

Security forces made contact with terrorists during a coordinated search and have since reinforced the area with additional troops. Surveillance has been intensified using technical assets, and a night cordon is in place to prevent any attempt by the militants to break out under cover of darkness.

The terrorists are believed to be affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammad and remain holed up in difficult, mountainous terrain.

Intermittent firing was reported earlier, after which forces adopted a cautious, area-dominance approach to avoid casualties while tightening pressure on the militants.

Some security personnel sustained injuries during the initial exchange and were evacuated for medical treatment. Their condition is reported to be stable.

The White Knight Corps has reiterated that troops are operating under challenging weather and terrain conditions, and that the focus remains on neutralizing the threat without allowing any escape.

Winter conditions in the Chenab Valley have significantly restricted militant movement, and forces are leveraging this advantage to systematically sanitize the area. Further developments are expected as the operation progresses.

If you want, I can provide a rolling update format, a brief military-style situation report, or a backgrounder on why Kishtwar has become a renewed hotspot.

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