The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — A top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander among two militants have been killed in an encounter between security forces and militants in Nehama area of southern Kashmir's Pulwama district on Monday.

A top police officer, quoted by the local news agency Kashmir Scroll, said that two militants including LeT commander Riyaz Ahmad Dar along with his associate have been killed by security forces in Nehama village of Pulwama.

He said that an encounter broke out in the area after security forces — a joint team of Police, Army and CRPF — started a search operation on credible inputs in the area.

As the joint team of forces intensified searches towards the suspected spot, the hiding militants fired upon the forces, triggering off a gunfight. He said that during the exchange of fire, two militants were killed.

SRINAGAR — An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Nehama area of southern Kashmir's Pulwama district on Monday morning.

As per the reports from the local news agency GNS, a joint team of police and army launched a cordon and search operation in Nehama village.

As the joint team of forces approached towards the suspected spot, the hiding militants fired upon the forces, triggering off a gunfight.

A senior police officer also confirmed the exchange of firing between militants and security forces.

SRINAGAR — Kupwara Police has lodged an FIR against 16 army personnel including three lieutenant colonels for allegedly entering into a police station on Tuesday night and assaulting on-duty policemen. The incident left four policemen injured.

According to media reports, Kupwara Police have invoked IPC sections relating to rioting, robbery, kidnapping and attempted murder against the soldiers.

The FIR was filed in relation to the incident that took place on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday (28-29 May). According to reports, a Police versus Army battle broke out in the region following the questioning of a Territorial Army jawan by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in connection with an alleged drug case.

Video evidence was provided showing a group of armed and uniformed personnel from the 160 Territorial Army storming the Kupwara police station. The Territorial Army is a military reserve force composed of part-time volunteers who provide support services to the Indian Army.

According to the FIR, the armed group led by lieutenant colonels Ankit Sood, Rajiv Chauhan and Nikhil forcibly entered the premises of the police station, a Mint newspaper report said. They proceeded to launch a brutal assault on police personnel present there, using rifle butts and sticks and kicking them without any provocation, it stated.

The situation escalated further as the army personnel brandished their weapons, seized mobile phones from the injured police officers and even abducted a police constable before fleeing the scene, the FIR stated.

The swift response of senior police officers helped rescue the targeted police personnel and initiate legal action against the perpetrators.

The FIR has been registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions), 332 (voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty), 307 (attempt to murder), 342 (wrongful confinement) and 147 (punishment for rioting).

The accused also face charges under sections 149 (every member of unlawful assembly guilty of offence committed in prosecution of common object), 392 (punishment for robbery), 397 (robbery, or dacoity, with attempt to cause death or grievous hurt) and 365 (kidnapping or abducting with intent secretly and wrongfully to confine person).

According to the FIR, they have also been booked under the Arms Act.

The Kupwara deputy superintendent of police is investigating the incident. Officials said that authorities aim to uncover the full extent of the crime and bring the accused individuals to justice.

Srinagar-based defence spokesperson sought to downplay the incident and said the reports of an altercation between police and army personnel and "beating up therein of police personnel are misfounded and incorrect".

SRINAGAR — Conflicting reports emerged on Wednesday regarding an alleged altercation between army personnel and police officers in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, with both forces denying any significant clash.

Four policemen were admitted to SKIMS Hospital in Soura late Tuesday night, reportedly after being beaten by army personnel, a report from the news agency PTI said. Special Police Officers Rayees Khan and Imtiyaz Malik, along with constables Saleem Mushtaq and Zahoor Ahmad from Police Station Kupwara, sustained injuries but are in stable condition, they added.

The incident purportedly began when an army team, led by an officer, allegedly barged into the police station and assaulted the officers. Sources claim the altercation was sparked by a police raid on the home of a local Territorial Army man in Batpora, Kupwara, as part of an ongoing investigation. This action reportedly angered the local army unit, leading to the alleged attack on the police station.

However, a Srinagar-based defence spokesman stated he was unaware of the incident and would comment after gathering more information.

Later, an army official was quoted by the news agency Kashmir Scroll as having said that the reports of a physical altercation and assault were baseless and incorrect. He described the event as a minor disagreement between a police officer and a Territorial Army unit over an operational matter, which has since been resolved amicably through dialogue.

Both police and army officials have refrained from commenting on the specifics of the altercation, maintaining a unified stance that the situation is under control and no significant conflict occurred.

SRINAGAR — Police on Tuesday claimed to have arrested two militant associates along with arms and ammunition in Mulsoo Seer area of southern Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

Officials quoted by the local news agency GNS said that a joint team of police and army apprehended two persons at a security checkpoint in Mulsoo Seer area of Anantnag.

From their possession, a pistol, eight pistol rounds, a hand grenade and 120 AK-47 rounds were recovered. "Further investigation into the case is going on," he added.

Meanwhile, the arrested persons have been identified as Waseem Ahmad Shah, a resident of Pethnambal locality and Adnan Beigh, a resident of the locality near Bus Stand Anantnag.

KUPWARA — Security forces on Monday claimed to have busted a militant hideout in northern Kashmir's Kupwara district.

An unnamed official quoted by a local news agency Kashmir Scroll said that a large cache of arms, ammunition, equipment and other war-like stores were recovered in Awra area of Kupwara district as a militant hideout was busted during the search operation.

He said that based on specific inputs, a joint search operation was launched by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police in the dense forest area of Awra, Kupwara, on Monday.

“During the search, a terrorist hideout was busted and a large cache of arms, ammunition, equipment and other war-like stores have been recovered," the official said.

POONCH — Five soldiers were injured after militants opened fire on two security forces' vehicles in Jammu's Poonch district on Saturday.

Reliable sources quoted by a local news agency said that at least five soldiers were injured after militants opened fire on two of their vehicles, including one belonging to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in Poonch district.

They said that a unit of the Rashtriya Rifles has begun cordon and search operations in the area.

Meanwhile, the vehicles have been secured inside the air base in the general area near Shahsitar.

UDHAMPUR — The search operation to track down the militants in Udhampur district entered the second day on Monday.

Joint forces including the army and police have cordoned off different parts of Chochru Gala Heights in Basantgarh area of Udhampur district where it is believed that militants responsible for the death of a Village Defense Guard (VDG) have been hiding.

Pertinently, yesterday, a Village Defence Guard of Jammu and Kashmir Police identified as M. Shareef lost his life in the firing incident between police and militants. The area since then has been cordoned off and an intensive search operation is being conducted by the combined forces.

Reliable sources told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that security forces believe that at least three militants are present in the dense forest area.

Six days before this incident, militants gunned down a government employee in Thanamandi Rajouri. Scores of suspects are already in lock-up and are being interrogated.

As per the police, the encounter on Sunday ensued when a team from the police along with VDGs, following an input about the presence of militants, was proceeding towards Chochru Gala Heights. The team came under fire and in the ensuing exchange of gunfire, one of the VDGs, accompanying police personnel, sustained critical injuries and later on, succumbed to his injuries.

PULWAMA — The militant killed in Pulwama gunfight on Thursday has been identified as a Srinagar resident.

An official quoted by a local news agency said that acting on specific information regarding the presence of a militant in Frasipora village of Pulwama, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by Police, Army (53RR) and CRPF (183Bn) in the said area.

During the search operation, as the joint search party approached towards the suspected spot, the hiding militants fired indiscriminately upon the joint search party which was retaliated, effectively leading to an encounter.

"In the ensuing encounter, a terrorist was neutralised and his body retrieved from site of encounter," the official said.

According to the official, the slain was later identified as Danish Sheikh, resident of Srinagar and associated with proscribed outfit Lashkar-e-Toiba (TRF) and from the slain, arms, ammunition and incriminating materials were recovered.

In this regard, a case under relevant sections of law has been registered and investigation has been initiated.

"People have been requested to cooperate with the police till the area at encounter site is completely sanitized and cleared of all the explosive materials, if any," he added.

SRINAGAR — An unidentified militant has been killed after an encounter broke out in the wee hours between militants and security forces in Frasipora area of southern Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday.

A top police officer quoted by the news agency GNS said that during the wee hours, input was received about the presence of some militants in the area.

As the joint team of army and police intensified the searches towards the suspected spot, the hiding militants opened fire on the search party, leading to an encounter, the officer said.

During the firefight, an unidentified militant's body has been sighted near the encounter spot, while searches in the area are underway, the top police added.

PULWAMA — A gunfight erupted between militants and security forces in Frassipora area of southern Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday.

A top police officer quoted by a local news agency said that a joint team of local police and army launched a cordon and search operation in Frassipora Pulwama.

As the joint team of forces approached towards the suspected spot, the hiding militants fired upon the forces, triggering off a gunfight, the officer said.

Meanwhile, a top police officer also confirmed the exchange of firing between militants and security forces.

RAJOURI — An unfortunate incident occurred in Budhal area of Rajouri district on Thursday evening, resulting in the loss of a young life as a six-year-old boy was struck by an army vehicle, according to officials.

Reliable sources quoted by a local news agency said that the accident unfolded on Palma road when a vehicle belonging to 60RR, identified as Casper, was en route to Budhal. Suddenly, the vehicle collided with a six-year-old boy, the son of Mohammad Azam, who serves in the CRPF.

Despite immediate efforts to rush him to the hospital, the child succumbed to his injuries, sources confirmed.

In response to the tragic incident, local authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter, with law enforcement agencies taking cognizance of the situation.

PULWAMA — In a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and local youth activists, a program titled "Nurturing Capsule for Shaping Children Below 10 Years" was organized today at Government Degree College for Women Pulwama.

The event, held under the theme "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams," aimed to foster the talents and aspirations of young children in Pulwama district.

Among the distinguished attendees were CO of 55RR, Davin Sood; Major of 55RR, Abishek Reqiwal; Sanjeev Ratu from 2YC CRPF; SSP Pulwama PD Nitya; ACD Pulwama, Dr Peerzada Farhat; Tehsildar Pulwama Mohammad Iqbal; Assistant Labour Commissioner Pulwama, Hafsa Qayoom; DYSSO Pulwama, ZEO Pulwama, along with other senior officers from various departments of the district.

Hundreds of children under the age of 10 from different schools across Pulwama participated in the program, which encompassed various activities geared towards nurturing their skills and potential in diverse fields, according to organizers.

The event commenced with a lively painting competition on the college lawns, with participants showcasing their artistic flair. Subsequently, outstanding performers were recognized and awarded during the proceedings.

Following this, a career counselling session was conducted, featuring insights from officers representing the army, police, and civil departments. They shared personal anecdotes and professional journeys, aiming to inspire and guide the young participants towards realizing their career aspirations.

Expressing gratitude, the participating students hailed the Indian Army for spearheading such initiatives aimed at nurturing their potential. They expressed hopes for the continuity of such programs in the future.

PULWAMA — In a concerted effort to empower the youth of Pulwama district, the Indian Army recently organized a comprehensive "Career Counseling and Reorientation Workshop" at Government Degree College, Pulwama. Spanning from February 26 to March 11, 2024, the event, held in collaboration with the Musuada Foundation, aimed to equip young individuals with educational enrichment, skill development, insights into various employment opportunities, and awareness on combating drug abuse.

The workshop, meticulously designed to address the needs of the youth, also focused on fostering a sense of nationalism and encouraging active participation in nation-building endeavours. Participants were reminded of their pivotal role in community and national development throughout the sessions.

Professor Irfana Rasool, Vice Principal of Government Degree College, Pulwama, presided over the event and delivered a motivating address to the attendees. Encouraging the youth to proactively shape their futures, she emphasized the importance of skill development and seizing opportunities in various government-aided schemes, such as "Start-Ups."

Professor Rasool highlighted the success story of Mr Nazim Nazir, known as the "Sweet Revolutionist of Kashmir," a local entrepreneur and beekeeper from Samboora, Pulwama. Mr Nazir's endeavours have not only created numerous job opportunities but also served as an inspiration for the youth of Kashmir.

Addressing the attendees, Professor Rasool stressed the significance of fostering an innovative and entrepreneurial mindset, asserting that those who embrace risk and creativity can overcome challenges and become job creators themselves.

In conclusion, Professor Rasool expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for providing a conducive platform and unwavering support to the youth of Kashmir.

RAJOURI — An army porter lost his life in a mine blast along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri sector, according to an official statement on Wednesday evening.

The deceased, identified as Rakesh Kumar from Sarya Jhangad, fell victim to the explosion in Nowshera, as confirmed by an official quoted by a local news agency.

The official further informed that the mortal remains of the deceased have been recovered from the scene and are being transported for necessary medico-legal procedures. Subsequently, they will be handed over to the family for final rites.

POONCH — Indian Army personnel engaged a Pakistani drone near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district on Wednesday, firing multiple shots to thwart its incursion, according to official sources.

Official sources quoted by a local news agency disclosed that the movement of an unidentified drone originating from across the border was detected near the Topi Post and Parvinder Post along the Line of Control in the Mendhar sector. Responding swiftly, troops stationed along the LoC discharged several rounds, compelling the drone to retreat to Pakistani territory.

The ongoing operation involves a search effort in the affected area to ensure security and ascertain any potential threats.

It is notable that the Jammu and Kashmir Police recently announced a cash reward of Rs 3 lakh for individuals providing information leading to the interception of drones deployed from across the border for illicit purposes, including the transportation of narcotics, arms, or explosives.

SRINAGAR — In coordinated operations, security forces in northern Kashmir's Bandipora and Baramulla districts achieved significant breakthroughs on Tuesday, uncovering a militant hideout and apprehending a militant associate.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a joint operation comprising J&K Police, 14RR of the Indian Army, and 3rd Bn CRPF successfully dismantled an old hideout nestled in the orchards of Ayathmullah Bandipora. Sources revealed that the hideout yielded a cache of arms and ammunition.

According to a police official quoted by a local news agency, the recovered items included a UBGL/grenade launcher, seven UBGL grenades, 95 rounds of ammunition, and various other old and rusted items. A case has been registered, and further investigations are underway.

Simultaneously, in Baramulla district, police, along with 2nd Bn SSB and Army's 29 RR, thwarted a potential threat by apprehending a militant associate. Acting on intelligence regarding the militants' movement in Pattan area, a joint checkpoint was established at Chinar Crossing Pattan.

During routine checking, security personnel noticed a suspicious individual approaching the checkpoint on foot. Upon seeing the security forces, the suspect attempted to flee but was swiftly apprehended.

Identified as Mehraj-ud-din Bhat, son of Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Mundyari Pattan, the individual was found in possession of a live hand grenade.

Authorities have initiated legal proceedings under sections UA(P) and Arms Act, registering a case at Police Station Pattan and launching a thorough investigation into the matter.

PULWAMA — The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Musuada Foundation, has initiated a "Career Counseling and Reorientation Workshop" for the youth of Pulwama district. The event, scheduled from February 26, 2024, to March 13, 2024, at the Government Degree College, Pulwama, aims to empower young individuals with educational resources, skill development opportunities, and insights into various employment avenues, including addressing the issue of drug menace.

Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in the growth and development of communities and the nation at large, the workshop seeks to instil a sense of nationalism and encourage active participation in nation-building endeavours, particularly among the youth of South Kashmir.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Umar Jaan, a social activist and former BDC Chairman, emphasized the importance of constructive engagement in shaping one's future and realizing personal aspirations. He expressed confidence in the resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of Kashmiri youth, highlighting their potential to overcome challenges and contribute significantly to the nation's development.

Mr Umar extended gratitude to the Indian Army for providing an apt platform for the youth of Kashmir and effectively engaging with them to facilitate their growth and development.

KULGAM — In a significant operation, police, along with security forces, apprehended four militant associates affiliated with the proscribed outfit Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) in Kulgam, recovering a cache of arms and ammunition from their possession.

The arrests came as a result of investigations into case FIR No. 14/2024 under Sections 13, 18, 39 of the UA(P) Act registered at Police Station Qaimoh. Kulgam Police, in collaboration with Army (1RR) and CRPF (18Bn), dismantled the LeT module and detained the four associates.

The individuals have been identified as Zahoor Ahmad Pandit, son of Abdul Gani Pandit; Basir Hussain Pandit, son of Farooq Ahmad Pandit; Imtiyaz Gull, son of Gull Mohd Bhat; and Gulzar Ahmad Khar, son of Ghulam Mohd Khar, all residents of Wanpora.

From the possession of the suspects, law enforcement recovered significant weaponry, including one pistol, two pistol magazines, 20 rounds of pistol ammunition, and four Under Barrel Grenades (UBGs), along with 24 rounds of INSAS rifle ammunition.

Authorities have stated that the investigation into the case is ongoing, with expectations of additional arrests and further recoveries.

KUPWARA — A tragic incident unfolded in North Kashmir's Kupwara district as an Indian Army soldier passed away after falling unconscious, according to reliable sources.

The soldier, identified as Lnk. Ashwini Kumar, stationed in Kupwara, suddenly lost consciousness while within the unit.

He was swiftly evacuated to the military hospital in Drugmulla, where medical personnel pronounced him brought dead.

A police officer confirmed that a case has been registered regarding the incident, with further investigation underway.