Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir — Aug 02, 2025:
In a high-intensity counter-terror operation, two terrorists were killed in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir during a joint security operation codenamed ‘Operation Akhal’. Members of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Jammu & Kashmir Police, and Indian Army all participated in the operation.
The conflict started late on Wednesday night in Kulgam’s Redwani Payeen neighborhood in response to specific intelligence reports regarding the presence of armed militants. Security forces swiftly cordoned off the area, prompting a fierce gunfight that continued into the early hours of Thursday.
Intelligence-Based Operation
Sources within the police department confirmed that the input about terrorist movement came from ground-level human intelligence as well as technical surveillance. Acting on the lead, a joint team of 1 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), local police, and CRPF launched a search-and-cordon operation around 7:30 p.m.
The hiding terrorists opened fire when they sensed movement from the security teams, triggering an encounter. By midnight, both terrorists were neutralized.
Operation Akhal
Terrorists’ Identity Yet to Be Confirmed
Though the identity and affiliation of the terrorists have not been officially released, preliminary reports suggest they were linked to The Resistance Front (TRF) — a Pakistan-backed proxy operating in South Kashmir. Both militants are believed to be locals, as per intercepts picked up during the operation.
From the location, weapons, ammo, and incriminating documents were found. Forensic teams have been dispatched to the location for on-ground verification and evidence collection.
Operation Akhal
Civilian Safety Prioritized
A senior officer involved in the operation informed that utmost care was taken to avoid civilian casualties. “We evacuated residents from nearby houses before launching the final assault. The operation was carried out with precision and minimum disruption,” he said.
Local residents reported hearing multiple gunshots and grenade blasts during the encounter. “We were scared, but the forces moved us to safety well in time,” said a resident of Redwani who was among those evacuated.
Operation Akhal
Area Under Lockdown, Search Continues
While the active encounter has ended, security forces continue to maintain a tight cordon around the area. Search operations are ongoing to rule out the presence of any additional militants or explosive devices.
Mobile internet services in Kulgam and nearby areas were suspended temporarily as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of rumors or militant propaganda.
Operation Akhal
Official Statement & Political Response
Jammu and Kashmir Police posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Two terrorists were killed in Redwani Payeen, Kulgam, during a joint Army, Police, and CRPF operation. Operation Akhal continues. #J&KPolice”
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, commended the forces, stating, “This is another blow to terror elements operating in Kashmir. The government will continue its zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism.”
Operation Akhal
Writer’s Insight (Based on 5 Years of Experience):
As a journalist reporting on internal security and socio-political affairs for over five years, I have closely followed the evolution of counter-insurgency strategy in Kashmir. Operation Akhal reflects a shift toward coordinated, intelligence-led precision strikes rather than prolonged gun battles, reducing both risk to civilians and operational fatigue.
Having analyzed dozens of similar encounters from verified press briefings and post-operation reports, I can say that this operation stands out due to the efficiency of coordination between different forces. It also highlights how local intelligence networks have matured, allowing faster reaction times and higher success rates.
Though I do not cover court or field stories, my newsdesk-based reporting relies on official sources, verified updates, and structured analysis to bring clarity and context to readers. My goal has always been to make high-impact national security stories understandable, factual, and relevant to a broad audience.
Conclusion
Operation Akhal is another reminder of the persistent threat that militancy continues to pose in parts of Jammu & Kashmir, even as the region witnesses development efforts and increased political outreach. The successful elimination of two militants is a small yet significant step toward restoring lasting peace in South Kashmir.
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