Security forces have intensified search operations in the forests around Gulmarg and Butapathri, deploying drones and helicopters to locate terrorists involved in a fatal attack on army vehicles that left two soldiers and two civilian porters dead on Thursday evening.

Combing operations began early Friday along the Line of Control (LoC) and later extended into the hinterland. Officials reported receiving specific information that the attackers had retreated into dense forests following the ambush.

“The search effort is extensive, covering a vast forest area connecting the LoC with Uri and Baramulla on one side and Budgam on the other. We remain optimistic about tracing the attackers,” said a senior officer involved in the operation.

What happened?

The attack took place on Thursday evening when a convoy carrying personnel from a Rashtriya Rifles unit and civilian porters was ambushed near Botapathri, about 6 kilometers from the popular tourist destination of Gulmarg. The deceased were identified as Rifleman Jeevan Singh, Rifleman Kaisar Ahmad Shah and goalkeepers Mushtaq Ahmad Chowdary and Zahoor Ahmad Mir.

A defense spokesman pointed to the involvement of Pakistani terrorists, accusing them of deliberately targeting local civilians to instill fear as the region moves towards stability. “The tragic loss of two porters in Kashmir highlights the sinister motives behind these attacks,” the spokesman said.

The attack was claimed by the Popular Anti-Fascist Front (PAAF), suspected of being associated with the Jaish-e-Mohammed group.

In a mark of respect, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha laid a wreath in honor of the fallen soldiers, expressing that “India will never forget the selfless service and supreme sacrifice”. He expressed solidarity with the families of the victims in a post on X.

Speaking at a press conference in Udhampur, Lt Gen Kumar outlined a strategic response to such attacks aimed at fostering a better relationship between the military and the civilian population, particularly involving the youth in nationalist narratives, Hindustan Times reported.

Political controversy

The attack also sparked political controversy, with opposition leaders criticizing the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for failing to maintain peace and security in the region. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi offered his condolences to the families of the victims while highlighting the ongoing security concerns. “The reality is that the state remains under constant threat from terrorist activities,” he said.

Former J&K Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has asked Pakistan to stop state-sponsored terrorism, questioning the motives behind such violence against innocents. “To ruin our future?” he asked.

People’s Conference leader Sajad Lone has condemned the recent rise in terrorist incidents, expressing concern over the attacks that have taken place after the restoration of an elected government. “This reflects the contempt these elements have for democratic processes,” he tweeted, sending thoughts to the victims’ families.