Operation Sheruwali continues with no success after 38 days
Operation Sheruwali, the extensive search operation in the forested areas of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, has entered its 38th day on Monday, with security forces still unable to locate the heavily armed terrorists who engaged them in a gunfight on May 23.
The operation, launched following specific intelligence inputs, involves the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) conducting relentless and coordinated searches in the dense Gambhir Mughlan forest area where the terrorists are believed to be hiding.
No further encounters since initial gunfight
Since the initial gunfight on May 23, no further encounters have taken place. Security forces believe the terrorists are hiding in a deep hideout inside the jungle. Residents of nearby villages reported hearing intermittent firing from inside the forest until May 28, which is believed to be security forces firing at suspected terrorist hideouts.
Forces have also searched several natural caves in the area but have found no evidence so far. The forests of Rajouri and Poonch in the Pir Panjal region are known to have numerous natural caves that have historically been used by terrorists as hideouts.
Security review ahead of Amarnath Yatra
The operation assumes significance as the nearly two-month-long annual Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to begin on July 3. General Officer Commanding of the White Knight Corps, Lt Gen PK Mishra, recently visited the headquarters of the Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo) to review the prevailing security situation and assess operational preparedness.
According to an official, Lt Gen Mishra commended all ranks for their unwavering professionalism, dedication, and relentless commitment in conducting counter-terrorism operations while appreciating their high morale, vigilance, and steadfast efforts towards maintaining peace, stability, and security in the region.
One of the longest search operations in Pir Panjal
Operation Sheruwali has become one of the longest search operations in the Pir Panjal region in recent years. The Army, police, and CRPF have maintained a tight cordon around the forest area to prevent the terrorists from escaping. Despite the extensive efforts, the search continues with no end in sight.
