Internet snapped in J&K’s Kishtwar as security forces hunt for Jaish terrorists

Authorities cut mobile internet in Kishtwar’s Chatroo area as an ongoing anti-terror operation intensifies; search teams are yet to establish contact with the suspected Jaish militants.

What happened: Security forces in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, suspended internet services as a major search operation for Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists entered its second phase.

Why it matters now: The encounter zone is active, and forces have not yet established contact with the militants, prompting stronger operational safeguards.

What changes for people: Residents in the region face communication disruptions and restricted movement as the security grid tightens.

Who is affected: Local civilians, students, service workers, security agencies and people needing emergency online access.

Security forces intensify hunt for Jaish terrorists in Kishtwar

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district have snapped mobile internet services as they continue a large-scale counterterror operation in the Chatroo area.

According to officials, a joint team comprising the Army, J&K Police and paramilitary forces has been conducting an extensive search after receiving credible intelligence of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militants hiding in the forested belts.

The decision to cut internet was taken to prevent the circulation of sensitive information, restrict militant communication channels and maintain tactical secrecy.

Encounter underway, no contact yet with militants

Officials said the encounter remains active, but no direct contact has been made with the hiding terrorists so far.

Search teams are scanning:

dense forests

ridge lines

natural hideouts

abandoned shelters

Security agencies are using drones and night-vision equipment to track movement in the difficult terrain.

Forces say the operation is “time-sensitive” because the militants may be attempting to shift locations.

Why internet shutdowns are used during counterterror ops

Authorities often suspend internet during high-stakes operations in J&K to:

stop real-time intelligence leaks to militants

prevent mobilisation of crowds near encounter sites

control rumours and misinformation

ensure safety of civilians and security personnel

While essential for operational security, such shutdowns impact daily life, including online classes, banking and emergency contact.

Heightened security grid across upper Kishtwar

Upper Kishtwar has seen a renewed push by terror groups attempting to revive networks across mountainous pockets.

Recent activity has prompted:

increased patrolling

checkpoint activation

intensified intelligence coordination

deployment of specialised anti-terror squads

Officials say the area’s terrain makes it easier for small groups to hide and shift, requiring prolonged, careful tracking.

Local residents face disruptions but support the operation

People in the region are experiencing issues with:

mobile internet

digital payments

remote work

student access to online classes

However, many residents expressed support for the security operation, saying civilian safety takes priority until the militants are neutralised.

Government monitoring the situation closely

Senior police officials are continuously reviewing the operation’s progress.

The administration has urged people to:

avoid the encounter area

follow movement advisories

cooperate with security forces

Authorities expect the internet suspension to continue until the operation concludes safely.