18th Security force fatality in J&K since May: CRPF inspector killed in Udhampur attack, search ops underway

On August 19, a CRPF inspector from the 187th Battalion was killed during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in the remote Cheel and Dudu regions of Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir. This incident marks the 18th security force fatality in the region since May, adding to the ongoing security challenges faced by the forces.

The attack occurred when terrorists, hiding in the dense forests of the Dudu-Basantgarh area, opened fire on a joint patrol of CRPF and J&K Police. "The area has been cordoned off and a search operation is underway to track down the terrorists," said an official in a TOI report.

Security forces along with Jammu and Kashmir police are currently engaged in a search operation in Dudu, Udhampur.


Background on Recent Fatalities
Since May, the Jammu and Kashmir region has experienced a series of fatal encounters involving security forces. Notable incidents include:

• The killing of a Captain of 48 Rashtriya Rifles in Doda district on August 14.
• The death of a soldier in Poonch on July 23.
• The deaths of a Captain and three soldiers from 10 Rashtriya Rifles in Doda on July 15.
• Five soldiers from 22 Garhwal Rifles were killed on July 8.
• A CRPF constable was killed in Kathua on June 12.
• Corporal Vikky Pahade died in an ambush on an IAF convoy in Poonch on May 4.
• In Kashmir, two soldiers were killed in Anantnag on August 10, and two others in separate gunfights in Kupwara on July 24 and 27.

Security Measures and Upcoming Elections
The recent surge in violence has prompted intensified security measures across the region. Jammu and Kashmir is preparing for assembly elections after a decade-long hiatus, with polling scheduled in three phases from September 18 to October 1, and the vote counting on October 4. The region’s security forces are dealing with complex challenges posed by the rugged terrain and sophisticated weaponry of the terrorists.

Changing Tactics of Terrorists
The recent escalation in violence has been linked to highly trained terrorists from Pakistan who are employing a hit-and-run guerilla strategy rather than suicide attacks. These terrorists use advanced technology, including M4 carbines, armour-piercing bullets, iridium satellite phones, and thermal imaging devices. This shift in tactics and the use of sophisticated equipment have increased the difficulty of countering their operations.

"The terrain here is particularly challenging, with dense forests, hilly topography, and poor network coverage," said Rayees Mohammad Bhat, Deputy Inspector General of Police for Udhampur-Reasi Range. "Despite these hurdles, we are committed to our duty, and the area is being thoroughly sanitised."

Condolences and Ongoing Operations
Following the incident, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi expressed her condolences, stating, "The news of the martyrdom of CRPF Inspector Kuldeep Kumar during an encounter with terrorists in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, is extremely sad. May God grant peace to the departed soul. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family. The entire country is united against terrorism and strongly condemns it in one voice."

The CRPF paid tribute to Inspector Kuldeep Kumar, acknowledging his bravery and dedication. "On 19 August, in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, brave Inspector Kuldeep Singh of 187 Battalion CRPF sacrificed his life on the altar of duty while fighting the terrorists. CRPF salutes our brave soldier's indomitable courage, valour, and devotion to the motherland. We always stand with the family of our brave man," the statement read.

The ongoing operation aims to neutralize the remaining terrorists, with modern technology, including drones, playing a crucial role in the search efforts. The situation remains tense as the region prepares for the upcoming elections, highlighting the persistent security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.

The elections are set to take place in three phases, with polling scheduled for September and October, and the counting of votes to follow on October 4th.

The security situation remains a critical concern as the polling dates approach.

(With inputs from TOI)