Jammu: In an alarming spree of violence, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed its fourth terrorist attack within three days, shortly after the Lok Sabha election results were announced. The latest attack took place in the Doda district, prompting police to release sketches of four suspected terrorists. A substantial reward of Rs 20 lakh is being offered for information leading to their capture.
Joint Forces Targeted in Doda District
On Tuesday, terrorists launched a brazen assault on a joint post of the 4th National Rifles and the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Chattargalla, Bhaderwah. The attack resulted in injuries to seven security personnel, including a police officer. In response, police announced a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh for any information on each of the four terrorists.
Upper Bhaderwah, Thathri, and Gandoh on High Alert
Authorities fear that these terrorists might strike again in the upper regions of Bhaderwah, Thathri, and Gandoh. In separate encounters on Wednesday, five soldiers and two police officers sustained injuries.
CRPF Jawan Martyred in Kota Top Encounter
The first attack struck the Chattargalla area of Doda at 1:45 PM, targeting a joint post on the Bhaderwah-Pathankot road. The intense firefight left five army personnel and a special police officer injured.
The second assault occurred 150 kilometers away in the Kota Top area. Here, another group of terrorists ambushed a police team, injuring Head Constable Farid Ahmed. The confrontation, which began late Tuesday night, extended into Wednesday morning, claiming the life of a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan and injuring six security personnel and one civilian. In a fierce retaliatory action, police killed two of the terrorists.
DGP Anand Jain Condemns Pakistan
Director General of Police Anand Jain strongly condemned the attacks, indirectly accusing Pakistan of perpetuating violence to destabilize the Jammu region. He emphasized that the “hostile” neighbor has continually tried to disrupt peace in the area.
The violent episode began on Sunday with an attack on a pilgrim bus in Reasi district, coinciding with the swearing-in ceremony of the NDA government in Delhi.
Authorities Vow to Track Down Perpetrators
Security forces remain on high alert, determined to track down and apprehend the terrorists responsible for these attacks. The region is bracing for more potential threats as investigations continue.
This series of attacks highlights the ongoing volatility in Jammu and Kashmir, even as political shifts take place at the national level. The situation underscores the persistent threat posed by terrorism in the region and the resilience of security forces in the face of such challenges.