Cop Martyred, ASI Injured in Gunfight with Terrorists in Kathua Ahead of Upcoming 3rd Phase of Assembly Elections in J&K

Arun Jasrotia
UDHAMPUR:TDD,Just three days before the third phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, a fierce encounter between security forces and terrorists erupted in Kog Mandli Village, Billawar, in the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to initial reports, a Jammu and Kashmir Police officer was martyred, and an Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI) sustained injuries during the exchange of fire.
The encounter broke out earlier today when a joint search operation was launched by security forces based on specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area.
As the operation unfolded, contact was established with the terrorists, resulting in an exchange of gunfire between both sides. The area has since been placed under a tight cordon, with reinforcements from adjacent security camps being called in to strengthen the operation. Meanwhile, the encounter was still underway till the last report came in.
This shows the frustration of Pak sponsored terrorists, and this incident occurred against the backdrop of record-breaking voter turnout in the first and second phases of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, which have seen unprecedented public participation in 70 years.
However, the democratic process continued to face challenges from Pakistan-sponsored terrorists attempting to disrupt the electoral atmosphere.
The ongoing elections are particularly significant as this is the first to be held in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370.
Despite the largely peaceful conduct of the electoral process thus far, terrorism remains a significant threat in the region. On September 13, 2024, two Army personnel were martyred in an encounter in the Kishtwar district, underscoring the persistent security challenges faced by the region.
In a separate incident earlier today, two unidentified terrorists were killed, and five security personnel, including an officer, were injured in an encounter in Kulgam district’s Adigam village.
As the security forces continue their efforts to maintain peace and ensure the smooth conduct of the remaining phases of the assembly elections, the recent encounters serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
The sacrifices made by the security personnel in these operations highlight the critical importance of maintaining vigilance and unity in the face of threats to the democratic process.TDD