In a significant development in south Kashmir, security forces neutralized one terrorist during an intense overnight encounter in the Akhal forests of Kulgam district on August 2, 2025. The operation, named “Operation Akhal,” is ongoing as the Indian Army maintains its efforts to secure the region. The slain terrorist, identified as Haris Nazir Dar from Rajpora, was killed in a fierce firefight, with arms and ammunition, including an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and grenades, recovered from the site.
Intense Firefight in Akhal Forests
The encounter began on Friday evening when security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Akhal forest area of Kulgam district, based on specific intelligence about terrorist presence. According to an army official, “Intermittent and Intense fire fight continued through the night,” with troops responding decisively to neutralize the threat. The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army posted on X, stating, “Intermittent and Intense fire fight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the nooze while maintaining contact.” This strategic response underscores the vigilance and precision of the security forces in combating terrorism in the region.
OP AKHAL, Kulgam
Contact established in General Area Akhal, Kulgam. Joint Operation in progress.#Kashmir@adgpi@NorthernComd_IA pic.twitter.com/d2cHZKiC61
— Chinar Corps – Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) August 1, 2025
Operation Akhal: Ongoing Efforts to Ensure Security
Operation Akhal remains active as security forces continue their efforts to eliminate any remaining threats in the Akhal forests. The recovery of significant weaponry, including an AK-47 rifle and grenades, highlights the potential danger posed by the neutralized terrorist. A police official confirmed the identity of the slain individual as Haris Nazir Dar, a resident of Rajpora, though further details about his affiliations are yet to be disclosed. The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps emphasized that “One terrorist has been neutralised by the security forces so far. Operation continues,” signaling their commitment to maintaining peace and security in south Kashmir.
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Swift Action in Maldivalan: Thwarting Infiltration
The operation was launched late Tuesday night following intelligence reports of a possible infiltration attempt across the LoC. Indian Army ambush teams detected suspicious movement in the Maldivalan area of the Degwar sector, prompting an immediate response. When the suspected infiltrators opened fire, the troops retaliated with precise and effective firepower, leading to a prolonged firefight. According to the White Knight Corps, “In a successful anti-infiltration operation, alert troops of the Indian Army eliminated two terrorists attempting to infiltrate across the Line of Control. Swift action and accurate firepower thwarted the nefarious designs.” The recovery of three weapons from the site further underscores the scale of the threat neutralized.
Operation Shivshakti: Strengthening India’s Counter-Terror Framework
Operation Shivshakti follows the success of Operation Mahadev, which eliminated three terrorists responsible for the deadly April 22 Pahalgam attack in Baisaran Valley, the worst terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama attack. That strike claimed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, highlighting the ongoing challenge of cross-border terrorism. The back-to-back successes of Operations Mahadev and Shivshakti demonstrate the Indian Army’s robust multi-layered strategy to counter terrorism and secure the LoC, ensuring the safety of the region amidst heightened threats.
