J-K: One Terrorist Killed, AK Rifle Recovered In Budgam Forest Encounter; Search On For Another Militant

Jammu-Kashmir: One terrorist was killed on Friday during a joint operation by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF deep inside the forests of Ashdar Gali in Budgam district. The operation was launched on Thursday following information regarding the movement of suspected group of terrorists from Pakherpora in Pulwama toward Yousmarg in Budgam.

According to the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, troops observed suspicious activity and challenged the suspects. The terrorists opened fire, leading to a gunfight in which one terrorist was killed, and an AK rifle was recovered.

ALSO READ: J&K: Encounter Breaks Out Between Security Forces, Terrorists Near Yusmarg Tourist Spot In Budgam

"Based on specific intelligence input, a joint search operation was launched by the Indian Army, J&K Police and CRPF in Ashdar Gali, Budgam. Vigilant troops observed suspicious activity, and upon being challenged, terrorists opened fire, prompting a fierce exchange of gunfire during which one terrorist was neutralised and one AK rifle was recovered. A search operation is in progress," Chinar Corps posted on X (formerly Twitter). 

OP ASHDAR, Budgam

Based on specific intelligence input, a Joint Search Operation was launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice and @crpf_srinagar in general area Ashdar Gali, Budgam.

Vigilant troops observed suspicious activity and upon being challenged, terrorists opened fire,…

— Chinar Corps🍁 - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) September 4, 2026

The identity of the slain terrorist has yet to be ascertained, news agency PTI reported.

A search operation remains underway as security forces are looking for another terrorist believed to be holed up in the same area. The encounter took place after a lull of several months in the Valley.

Operation Enters Second Day; Doodhpathri Closed For Tourists

The anti-terror operation deep inside the forest area of Budgam district entered its second day as security forces search for the terrorist group reportedly seen in the area. 

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Security forces carried out combing operations through the forest area in Pir Panjal range, which connects Budgam to Poonch, Rajouri, Baramulla, Pulwama, and Shopian districts. Officials rushed additional forces to the area to strengthen the cordon and prevent the terrorists from escaping.

Meanwhile, as the operation falls in the vicinity of Doodhpathri, authorities have advised tourists not to visit the location until further orders.

(With Inputs From PTI)