In the latest development in Jammu and Kashmir’s anti-terror operations, security forces killed three Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists in a fierce gun battle that took place in the Nader village of Tral, Pulwama district, on Thursday, 15 May 2025. This is the second notable encounter in the region in two days, which shows the increased vigilance and operations based on information collated in the valley.
How the Operation Unfolded: Precision and Coordination
Following specific information regarding the location of terrorists in the Nader region of Tral, Awantipora sub-district, a combinational unit of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF initiated a cordon and search operation. Even for the combined unit, the task was not straightforward, as the security forces were met with significant hostile fire from the surrounded crew even as they attempted to advance toward the area. During the entire operation, every effort was made to avoid damage to local properties and ensure the civilians in the area were safe, which was achieved successfully.
Identities Revealed: Local Youths Turned Militants
The local terrorists who were killed were later identified as Asif Ahmed Sheikh, Amir Nazir Wani, and Yawar Ahmad Bhat, all of whom hail from the Pulwama district. Their identification elucidates the processes of local youth radicalization by Pakistan-based terror agencies, including Jaish-e-Mohammed. While reporting was being done, security officials stated that there is strong suspicion that in the middle of reporting there are other terrorists that could still be concealed in that vicinity.
Investigative Links to the Recent Terror Attack: Pahalgam Is Being Scrutinized
These terrorists might have connections to the violent attack in Pahalgam, which took place on April 22, 2025, as a result of which 26 individuals lost their lives, the majority being tourists. Inspector General of Police V. K. Birdi stated that their level of participation in the attack is currently being looked into. Everything surrounding Pahalgam has led to increased SIA control in all of Jammu and Kashmir.
A String of Encounters: Hatched Up Anti-Terror Operation
This comes less than forty-eight hours after security teams gunned down three members belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba Terrorist Organization in the Shopian district. The rapid succession of these two encounters signals a surge in the scale of response to the growing menace of terrorism in the valley, especially after the Pahalgam mass killing. Increased counterintelligence, surveillance, and proactive military action are being initiated in militant strongholds.
Gains of the Operation
During the operation, security forces recovered arms and ammunition such as AK-47 assault rifles. The sophisticated weapons have been received as a guarantee of the ever-growing danger from cross-border-supported militant outfits. In addition, the operation dismantled a local terror module, preventing potential future attacks.
India has marked its position on terrorism sponsored by Pakistan as an unequivocal act of war. The recent skirmishes with and the current Operation Sindoor aimed at terror launchpads in Pakistan and PoK reflect an unyielding posture on national security. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have both proclaimed the need for global accountability regarding Pakistan’s behavior.
India’s security forces demonstrate their vigilance and resolve with the neutralization of three Jaish terrorists in Pulwama. The region is relatively calm but on high alert due to the ongoing operations aimed towards eradicating the terrorist networks in Jammu and Kashmir.
