Encounter breaks out between security forces, terrorists in Udhampur ahead of Amarnath Yatra

June 26, 2025

Jammu: A fierce encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred during a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army and police in the Bihali area of Basantgarh.

According to a official sources, contact was established with the terrorists earlier in the morning, and a gunfight ensued. Authorities confirmed that the clash is currently ongoing as security forces continue their operation to neutralize the threat.

Bhim Sen Tuti, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu Zone, provided updates on the situation, stating, “The encounter started early in the morning, and the operation is still in progress.” The Indian Army’s White Knight Corps also issued a statement on the social media platform X, confirming that the operation was launched based on specific intelligence.

The statement read, “Op Bihali. Based on specific intelligence, a joint operation was launched by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police in the Bihali area of Basantgarh. Contact has been established with terrorists. The operation is currently in progress.” An Army official further told ANI that the operation is ongoing, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

This encounter takes place at a sensitive time, just ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled from July 3 to August 8, 2025. The Yatra attracts thousands of pilgrims from across the country and the world, and ensuring safety and security remain high priorities for authorities in Jammu and Kashmir.

Security Preparedness and Mock Drill for Yatra

In anticipation of the upcoming pilgrimage, security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir conducted a comprehensive mock drill at the Baltal base camp on June 25 in Ganderbal district. The exercise was organized under the supervision of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal and aimed to test and improve coordination among multiple agencies involved in ensuring the safety of pilgrims and local residents.

Participants in the drill included the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the 49 Battalion CRPF, the Indian Army, Fire and Emergency Services, and representatives from the Health Department. The exercise simulated various emergency scenarios, such as potential terrorist attacks, fire outbreaks, medical emergencies, and natural disasters, to prepare the agencies for a swift and coordinated response during the Yatra.

This joint drill is part of comprehensive efforts to safeguard the pilgrims and maintain peace during the festival. Authorities have emphasized that ongoing security measures, including intelligence-based operations and preparedness exercises like this mock drill, are crucial to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. The coordination among different agencies reflects the commitment of security forces to provide a safe environment for the thousands of devotees expected to visit the sacred sites during this period.