An intense anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district entered its third day on Sunday, as security forces continued their coordinated efforts to flush out militants hiding in the dense Akhal forest region.
Launched on Friday based on specific intelligence inputs, the joint cordon and search operation (CASO) by the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&amp;K Police led to the killing of three terrorists, with a soldier critically injured. Despite ongoing firing exchanges, officials suspect more militants may be present in the area.&nbsp;Security forces have deployed drones and thermal imaging technology to trace movements and neutralize the threat. The slain terrorists have been identified as locals, adding to a string of recent operations targeting both foreign and local militant networks in the Union Territory.
The operation comes days after three top Pakistani terrorists linked to the deadly April 22 Pahalgam attack were gunned down in 'Operation Mahadev' in Srinagar&rsquo;s Dachigam forest zone. With heightened vigilance along the Line of Control and in the valley's interior, forces are also cracking down on overground workers, hawala money trails, and narcotics smuggling believed to fund insurgency.
This strategic shift reflects a broader push to dismantle the entire terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, not just eliminate armed insurgents.

Operation Akhal: Day 3 of Terror Hunt in J&K

Security forces continue anti-terror operation in Kulgam’s Akhal forest for third day

Operation Akhal: Day 3 of Terror Hunt in J&K

Security forces continue anti-terror operation in Kulgam’s Akhal forest for third day

August 3, 2025 | 10:15 IST