New Delhi: As the harsh winter deepens with the onset of Chillai Kalan— the 40-day period of extreme cold and heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir — the Indian Army has stepped up counterterrorism operations to eliminate around 30–35 Pakistani terrorists believed to be active in the region.
Defence sources indicate that these militants, mostly from Pakistan, are attempting to exploit the freezing temperatures and treacherous snowy terrain to conceal themselves in high-altitude forests and remote areas, particularly in the Doda and Kishtwar districts. Intelligence assessments suggest the terrorists are confined to inhospitable higher reaches, with their access to local support networks significantly weakened due to sustained security pressure.
The army has adopted a proactive stance, deploying specialised winter warfare units equipped with drones, thermal imaging, ground sensors, and surveillance radars. Joint operations involving the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, BSF, Special Operations Group (SOG), Forest Department, and Village Defence Committees are underway across over 200 villages and forested zones. Temporary bases and surveillance posts have been established deep in snow-covered areas to deny terrorists any sanctuary and prevent regrouping or movement into populated regions.
This intensified campaign, ongoing for the past 10-15 days, comes amid heightened vigilance ahead of the New Year. Sources emphasise seamless inter-agency coordination and precise intelligence-driven actions to neutralise threats swiftly.
The operation underscores the security forces’ resolve to maintain pressure on terrorist elements throughout the winter, ensuring no lull in counter-terror efforts despite the challenging conditions.