Terrorists Cornered in Doolgam, Jammu & Kashmir; Heavy Firing Continues as Operation Trashi-I Enters Day 14, Internet Suspended

Srinagar:
An intense encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in the Doolgam area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir early Saturday morning, with heavy firing reported from both sides. The terrorists were cornered during the ongoing joint anti-terror operation “Trashi-I”, which has now entered its 14th consecutive day.

According to the Army, troops from the White Knight Corps, along with personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the CRPF, re-established contact with the terrorists during a renewed search operation on January 31, 2026, following fresh intelligence inputs from multiple sources. The entire area has been cordoned off, and the operation is currently underway.

Security agencies believe that three terrorists affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) are hiding in the region. This encounter comes just hours after security forces intensified counter-terror operations against JeM militants in the district.

Fourth Encounter in Two Weeks

Army officials stated that this is the fourth encounter in the area over the past two weeks. Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Prateek Sharma recently visited Kishtwar to review the counter-terror grid and assess the progress of the ongoing operation aimed at neutralising the terrorists.

Internet Services Suspended

To prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure operational security, internet services have been suspended in several areas of Kishtwar. Connectivity remains disrupted within a six-kilometre radius, including Singpora, Arigam, Dwathar, and Naidgam. As per an order issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department, the internet shutdown, which has been in effect since January 23, has been extended until 11:59 pm on Friday.

Operation Slowed by Harsh Terrain

The operation began on January 18 in a snow-covered and mountainous region. Despite multiple encounters, progress has been slow due to difficult terrain, dense forests, and deep snow, which the terrorists have repeatedly exploited to evade security forces.

On the first day of the operation, one paratrooper was martyred and seven soldiers were injured. Subsequent encounters on January 22 at Mali Dana Top and January 25 in the Jansi–Kandiwar area also saw terrorists managing to escape under the cover of thick vegetation and harsh weather conditions.

Security forces have reaffirmed their resolve to eliminate the remaining terrorists and restore normalcy in the region. Further details are awaited as the operation continues.