Gulmarg Attack: Major Search Operation Underway Along LoC to Find Terrorists
In response to a deadly attack in the Gulmarg sector of Jammu and Kashmir, security forces have initiated a large-scale search operation along the Line of Control. Drones and helicopters are being deployed to locate the terrorists responsible for the killings of two soldiers and two porters. The Army has stated that its primary objective is to dismantle the underlying terror networks.
In the wake of the attack, which occurred about six kilometers from the popular tourist destination, routes surrounding the area have been closed, and the Gondola ropeway service was temporarily suspended as a precaution. Despite this, tourist activity at the ski resort continues to proceed normally.
Farooq Abdullah, president of the National Conference, remarked that such violence will persist until India and Pakistan establish a friendly relationship. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the Army’s 15 Corps in Srinagar to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers and porters.
The attack took place when terrorists ambushed an Army vehicle in the Bota Pathri area while it was en route to the Nagin post in the Affarwat range. Lieutenant General Kumar, during a media briefing in Udhampur, stated that the Unified Headquarters has developed a comprehensive strategy to address such incidents. This strategy aims to foster closer ties between the military and the local population, while promoting nationalist narratives among the youth.
He emphasized the importance of breaking the cycle of violence and dismantling the terror ecosystem by empowering the community, enhancing educational opportunities, promoting sports, and reviving the region’s rich cultural heritage. “I assure you that the situation is under control,” he added.
The search operation is being led by senior Army and police officials, utilizing both aerial surveillance and ground intelligence. The area is heavily monitored by military forces, and there are indications that a terrorist group had infiltrated the region earlier this summer, taking refuge in the higher elevations of the Afrawat range.
Notably, the Bota Pathri area had recently reopened to tourists. Close to the attack site is the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS), where Army personnel receive specialized training before deployment to Siachen Glacier.
Abdullah reiterated that without improved relations between India and Pakistan, attacks like these will continue. He expressed concern over the loss of innocent lives and questioned the motives behind the violence, emphasizing that it disrupts the future of the region.
In response to the tragedy, the Jammu and Kashmir government has provided compensation of Rs 6 lakh to the families of the two porters, Chaudhary Mushtaq Ahmad and Zahoor Ahmad Mir, who lost their lives in the attack. Baramulla Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa personally delivered the cheques to the grieving families as directed by the Lieutenant Governor.
