Indian Army Kills Terrorist in Budgam's Ashdar Gali After Overnight Standoff

Joint security forces neutralised one terrorist on Friday during 'Operation Ashdar' in the high-altitude Ashdar Gali region of Central Kashmir’s Budgam district, recovery operations and searches remain underway.

The Indian Army, alongside Jammu & Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), launched a joint cordon and search operation on Thursday evening following specific intelligence inputs regarding militant movement in the area.

Firefight in Ashdar Gali

Army patrols established contact with the hiding militants late Thursday after hearing gunshots in the forest belt. Security forces maintained a tight cordon through the night to prevent any escape attempt, resuming active operations at first light on Friday morning.

"Vigilant troops observed suspicious activity and upon being challenged, terrorists opened fire, prompting a fierce exchange of gunfire during which one terrorist was neutralised and one AK rifle and other war-like stores recovered," stated the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps in an official release.

Search parties continue to sweep the surrounding terrain to ensure no additional combatants remain in the vicinity.

Operational Context in Budgam

Budgam district has historically witnessed critical anti-terror engagements, most notably the 1995 Chrar-e-Sharief standoff involving Pakistani commander Mast Gul. During that 66-day siege, security forces encircled the town to protect the shrine of Sheikh Nuruddin Wali before the militants set fire to the structure.

While that historical encounter resulted in the death of 20 terrorists, two soldiers, and four civilians, current tactical responses in the sector rely on rapid, targeted intelligence to contain militant movement across the central valley ridge. Ground forces maintain high alert levels as search operations progress.