The year 2023 saw a surge in encounters between security forces and militants in the Jammu region, with Rajouri, Poonch, and Reasi districts bearing the brunt of the violence. A total of 55 lives were lost in these clashes, including 20 brave security personnel who were martyred in the line of duty, and 28 militants eliminated.
The most intense confrontations occurred in Rajouri, where 27 fatalities were recorded. These included 10 militants and 10 security personnel, highlighting the fierce nature of the battles. Poonch wasn’t far behind, witnessing the deaths of 15 militants and 10 security personnel. Reasi, although seeing less activity, still lost three militants to the ongoing operations.
Tragically, the year began with a horrific massacre in Dangri, Rajouri, where seven innocent civilians were brutally killed on January 1st. This event served as a stark reminder of the human cost of terrorism.
Prior to 2023, October 2021 was marked by two devastating attacks in the region’s forested areas. On October 11th, five Army personnel, including a JCO, lost their lives in Chamrer. Three days later, a JCO and three soldiers were martyred in a nearby forest.
Adding to the fallen heroes were three Army officers, including two Captains, who bravely sacrificed themselves in an anti-terrorist operation in Bajimaal, Rajouri district.
Officials attribute the increased encounters to intensified counter-terrorism operations aimed at thwarting infiltration attempts from across the border and disrupting militant networks within Jammu. These efforts also serve to ease pressure on security forces battling insurgents in the Kashmir Valley.
