Terror Attack in J&K’s Kathua Claims Fifth Soldier

Summary:
In Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district, a terrorist attack on an army convoy on Monday resulted in the death of another soldier, raising the total fatalities to five, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO). The terrorists initiated the attack near Badnota village, throwing a grenade and firing automatically at army vehicles on routine patrol. Despite retaliation from security forces, the terrorists managed to escape. Ten soldiers were injured, with five succumbing to their injuries in the hospital.
Para commandos were deployed to track the terrorists, and a massive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched, with reinforcements dispatched to the area. This incident marks the second major terror-related event in Kathua in the past four weeks. Previous incidents include a gunfight in the Hiranagar area and an attack on pilgrims in the Reasi district, resulting in multiple casualties.
J&K DGP R.R. Swain noted that foreign terrorists are exploiting the terrain in the hilly regions of Poonch, Rajouri, and nearby districts. Security forces have intensified their campaign against these terrorists, with recent encounters in the Kulgam district leading to the deaths of six terrorists and two soldiers.