June 27, 2025 – Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir: A fierce encounter broke out early Friday morning between security forces and suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists in the Bihali area of Basantgarh, a remote forested region in Udhampur district. The joint operation, launched by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police, is part of “Operation Bihali”, which was initiated based on specific intelligence inputs.
According to officials, one terrorist has been neutralized so far, while three others remain trapped in the dense forest. The operation is ongoing, with reinforcements deployed and aerial surveillance being conducted using drones and thermal imaging equipment.
Ongoing Encounter in Basantgarh: What We Know So Far
The encounter began around 8:30 a.m., when security forces established contact with the militants near Karoor Nallah, a known infiltration route. The group of four terrorists, believed to be Pakistani nationals affiliated with JeM, had been under surveillance for nearly a year.
Despite foggy weather and difficult terrain, the forces managed to corner the group. “The terrorists were well-trained and heavily armed. We suspect they were planning to disrupt the upcoming Amarnath Yatra,” said Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti.
#WATCH | Udhampur, J&K: Encounter between security forces and terrorists is underway in the Bihali area of Basantgarh.
(Visuals deferred by unspecified time; no live operational details disclosed) pic.twitter.com/tr5xF7S0yj
— ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2025
The slain terrorist has been identified as Haider, code-named Maulvi, a Pakistan-based operative. The remaining three are believed to be hiding in nearby caves and forest cover.
Heightened Security Ahead of Amarnath Yatra
This encounter comes just days before the Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to begin on July 3, prompting heightened security across the region. Authorities have deployed over 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces in Jammu division alone to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Basantgarh has long been a strategic infiltration corridor for cross-border militants. In recent months, several overground workers (OGWs) have been arrested for aiding terrorist movement in the area.
