Indian Troops Intensify Cordon & Search Operation in Poonch, IIOJK

Fresh gunfire and tightened security mark yet another day of fear and tension for civilians in Poonch, as Indian forces continue aggressive operations in IIOJK.

Indian troops have ramped up their cordon and search operations in the Poonch district of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), intensifying fears among the already-traumatized local population.

According to local sources, the operation was launched late Monday evening in the Lasana area of Surankote, a town situated in the southern part of the Poonch district. Residents reported hearing several gunshots as heavily armed Indian troops combed the area in search of alleged militants.

In a statement posted on the micro-blogging platform X (formerly Twitter), the Indian Army confirmed that a “contact” was established with militants during a joint military operation in Lasana. Although no official confirmation has been made regarding casualties or arrests, the situation on the ground remains tense.

Eyewitnesses say that the atmosphere has drastically changed since the operation began, with local people restricted to their homes and movement in and out of the area strictly prohibited. The presence of additional troops and armored vehicles has created a climate of fear, with families uncertain about what may unfold in the coming days.

To tighten the noose, reinforcements were called in, and more personnel have been inducted into the area. The ongoing search effort is being carried out in collaboration with various units of Indian paramilitary forces. Security forces have sealed off key entry and exit points in the region to prevent any movement deemed suspicious.

A senior police officer, speaking to the media, confirmed that the operation actually began late Saturday evening, not Monday, as stated in earlier reports. He noted that the initial deployment involved a joint team comprising Indian Army units and personnel from central armed forces. The officer said that during the early phase of the operation, some gunfire was exchanged, prompting authorities to intensify the cordon and expand the search radius.

He further added that the troops are working in difficult terrain and under challenging conditions, which could prolong the operation. As of now, no detailed information has been released about any direct engagement with suspected militants or evidence of militant activity.

The Indian government often justifies these operations as part of its broader counter-insurgency strategy. However, local and international human rights organizations have consistently criticized such military activities, labeling them as tools of suppression used against the civilian population of IIOJK. Arbitrary detentions, home raids, and use of excessive force have all been widely documented over the years.

The continuous militarization of civilian areas under the pretext of security operations has raised serious concerns among observers. Many believe that these actions aim not only to control but also to intimidate the local population into silence regarding their political rights and demand for self-determination.

The latest developments in Poonch further highlight the ongoing cycle of militarized tension in the region. While Indian forces portray such operations as necessary for national security, the people of IIOJK see them as acts of collective punishment and systemic oppression.