One terrorist has been neutralised in an ongoing cordon and search operation by security forces in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Wednesday. The anti-terror operation, codenamed Operation Arahama, remains underway with forces intensifying the search to track down remaining suspects.
Security forces, including the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF, launched a cordon and search operation in Arahama village late Tuesday night after receiving specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area.
As the joint team tightened the cordon, militants opened fire, triggering a gunfight. Officials said at least two terrorists were believed to be hiding in the area when the encounter began.
According to the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, intermittent firing continued through the night, forcing troops to tactically adjust their positions.
In a post on X, the Army said troops responded with a “calibrated approach,” resulting in the killing of one terrorist. The identity of the slain militant is yet to be established.
Security forces have sealed all escape routes and expanded the operation to nearby villages, including Haripora, Bonzla and Yarmuqam, to prevent any possible escape.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are being used to track movements and locate any remaining terrorists hiding in the area. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to strengthen the cordon.
Officials said the operation is ongoing, with forces maintaining a tight vigil across the cordoned zone. Further details are awaited as the search operation continues in the region.
OP ARAHAMA, Ganderbal
Based on specific intelligence input, joint search operation was launched by #IndianArmy and @JmuKmrPolice in Gen area Arahama of Ganderbal.
During the search, vigilant troops observed suspicious activity. On being challenged, terrorists opened fire and… pic.twitter.com/dGxsyJv7su
— Chinar Corps – Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) March 31, 2026