Encounter Breaks Out Between Security Forces and Militants in Jammu and Kashmir Shopian

An encounter broke out between security forces and suspected militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian district after a counterterrorism operation turned into a gunfight, officials said. The operation remains underway, with additional forces deployed to strengthen the security cordon in the area.

The joint search operation was launched early in the day following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in the region. As security personnel intensified the search, the suspected militants allegedly opened fire, triggering an exchange of gunfire.

Following the outbreak of the encounter, security forces sealed off Chanpora, Saidpora, Saidpora Bala, Amshipora, and nearby areas to prevent any escape. Reinforcements have been rushed to the location, and extensive search operations are continuing.

Officials have not yet confirmed the number of militants believed to be trapped in the area. No official statement has been issued regarding casualties or injuries as the operation is still in progress.

Meanwhile, security across Jammu and Kashmir has been further tightened due to the ongoing annual Amarnath Yatra. Authorities have increased surveillance and deployed additional personnel to ensure the safety of pilgrims traveling to the holy shrine.

On Saturday morning, the third batch of 4812 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu under heavy security arrangements. The group included 966 women, 244 sadhus, and 157 sadhvis, traveling in two escorted convoys consisting of 126 vehicles.

Among the pilgrims, 2771, including 542 women and six children, are heading towards the Pahalgam base camp, while the remaining devotees have chosen the Baltal route for the pilgrimage. Security agencies continue to maintain strict vigilance across the region as both the counterterrorism operation and the pilgrimage proceed simultaneously.