Massive Counter-Terror Crackdown Launched Across South Kashmir Following Fatal Shooting of J&K Police Head Constable

Srinagar: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir demolished the houses of two alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants following the killing of a Jammu and Kashmir Police head constable in a terrorist attack in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The operation was carried out late Wednesday night and continued into Thursday morning as part of an intensified counter-terrorism response.

The demolished properties reportedly belonged to Adil Thokar and Haroon Rashid Ganai, who have been identified by security agencies as militants associated with the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba. Officials said the action was taken as security forces launched a series of operations targeting the militant network believed to be involved in the attack.

Policeman Shot Dead While on Amarnath Yatra Security Duty

The security crackdown came hours after Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi was shot dead by terrorists at Lal Chowk in Anantnag while deployed on security duty for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. According to officials, the terrorists opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene. The injured officer was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Security agencies described the incident as one of the most serious militant attacks targeting police personnel in the Valley in recent months.

Large-Scale Search Operations Underway

Following the attack, security forces launched extensive search-and-cordon operations across several parts of Anantnag and neighbouring districts. Multiple checkpoints were established, and raids were conducted at suspected militant hideouts as investigators worked to identify those involved in planning and executing the attack.

Officials said the operation aims not only to track down the attackers but also to dismantle the logistical and support networks allegedly assisting terrorist groups operating in the region.

Thousands Detained for Questioning

As part of the intensified security measures, authorities reportedly detained thousands of individuals across Kashmir for verification and questioning. Officials said the exercise is intended to identify militant sympathisers and gather intelligence that could help prevent further attacks.

Police maintained that the detentions are part of an ongoing investigation and that action is being taken in accordance with established legal procedures.

Political Reactions

The demolition of the militants’ houses has triggered political debate in Jammu and Kashmir. While several leaders condemned the terrorist attack and expressed solidarity with the slain police officer’s family, some also stressed that counter-terror operations should remain within the framework of the law and constitutional safeguards.

The administration, however, defended the security response, reiterating its commitment to adopting a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism and those providing support to militant organisations.

Public Advisory Against Misinformation

The Jammu and Kashmir Cyber Police urged citizens to refrain from sharing unverified photographs, videos, or rumours related to the Anantnag attack on social media. Authorities warned that circulating misinformation could hamper the investigation and create unnecessary panic.

Officials appealed to the public to rely only on verified updates issued by government agencies and law enforcement authorities as investigations continue.