Northern Command GOC reviews security amid infiltration attempts

Following the elimination of hardcore terrorists in recent operations in Kishtwar district, the Army has intensified counter-terror operations in the Rajouri and Poonch districts along the Line of Control (LoC), where several infiltration bids and drone sightings have been reported in the recent past.

To review the ongoing operations, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army’s Northern Command, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, on Thursday visited Shahsitar in Poonch and Hanjanwali in the Rajouri sector. He reviewed the prevailing security situation.

The Army Commander was briefed about the intelligence grid and focused operational capability enhancement measures, vital for sustained operations in a complex security landscape. The Army Commander commended the troops for their high state of morale, professionalism and steadfast dedication under challenging conditions,” an official said.

There have been several failed attempts by terrorists from across the border to infiltrate the Indian side in these twin districts in recent weeks.

On Wednesday, acting on credible intelligence, Army personnel stationed at Bhimber Gali detected suspicious movement and opened fire at terrorists attempting to sneak across the LoC.

Acting on credible intelligence inputs and persistent surveillance, movement of terrorists was detected in the general area of Bhimber Gali along the Line of Control during the early hours of March 4. Responding with decisive force and showcasing superior tactical execution, alert troops of White Knight Corps engaged swiftly, foiling the infiltration attempt and denying any breach of the LoC,” an Army spokesperson said.

Earlier, on February 19, the Army foiled an infiltration attempt in the Sunderbani sector of Rajouri. During searches in the area, troops seized an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, along with ration and clothing. Bloodstains were also found at the site, suggesting that the infiltrating terrorists might have been injured.

On March 1, troops opened fire at a Pakistani drone after it entered the Indian side from across the LoC in Poonch. Earlier, on February 27, troops had fired at another drone in the same area.

Meanwhile, the Army is recruiting 800 porters in Rajouri and Poonch for its newly raised Porter Company.

According to an official, the 279 Porter Company is being raised for 179 days from April 1 to September 26 under the authority of the Ministry of Defence. A recruitment rally to enrol 600 porters and 200 reserve porters for the Army Porter Company will be held at various locations in Rajouri and Poonch from March 12 to 19.

The drive will be conducted at brigade headquarters in Poonch and Rajouri from March 12 to 13; at Balnoi and Nowshera from March 14 to 15; at Bhimber Gali from March 16 to 17; and at Mendhar and Manjakote from March 18 to 19. Porters serve as vital logistical support, often acting as a lifeline in the region’s treacherous and high-altitude areas.