By Tehelka Web Desk
Operation Sheruwali, a major counter-terrorism mission underway in the forests of Rajouri district, entered its 23rd consecutive day on Sunday, making it one of the longest anti-militancy operations in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years.
Security forces continued intensive search and cordon operations in the dense Dorimal forests of the Gambhir Mughlan area, where troops are navigating difficult terrain marked by steep slopes, rocky hills and thick vegetation.
Officials said security personnel remain on high alert and are carrying out extensive searches, surveillance activities and area domination exercises to detect any suspicious movement in the region.
The prolonged operation underscores the security forces’ efforts to track down suspected militants believed to be hiding in the forested belt and to maintain peace in the border district.
The operation suffered a setback on June 7 when an Army soldier died after accidentally slipping from a rocky slope while moving through the rugged terrain during the mission. He sustained serious injuries in the fall and later succumbed despite being evacuated for treatment.
Operation Sheruwali gained momentum on May 28 when heavy firing was reported in the Dorimal forest area. Security forces subsequently strengthened the cordon around the suspected militant hideout, deploying additional troops and logistical support to prevent any escape from the dense forest cover.
Launched in late May, Operation Sheruwali is a multi-agency counter-terrorism exercise aimed at locating and neutralising armed infiltrators believed to be operating in the Dorimal-Gambhir Mughlan sector of Rajouri district. The operation continues amid heightened security measures across the area.
