JAMMU, March 28, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed profound respect and sorrow as he honoured the fallen heroes of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, who sacrificed their lives during an intense encounter in Kathua district. In a statement released this morning, Sinha said, “I bow to the valorous martyrs of J&K Police, who laid down their lives for our motherland. My deepest condolences to their families. In the ongoing Kathua encounter, several terrorists were neutralised. J&K Police and security forces are on the job. Operation in progress.”
The encounter, which erupted on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in the remote forested area of Rajbagh, Kathua, has claimed the lives of at least three J&K Police personnel, with reports indicating that up to four policemen may have been killed. The operation, now in its second day, targets a group of heavily armed terrorists believed to be affiliated with the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad outfit. Security forces, including the J&K Police, Indian Army, National Security Guard , Border Security Force , and Central Reserve Police Force , have neutralised three terrorists so far, with the possibility of additional eliminations as the operation continues.
The gunfight began around 8 a.m. yesterday when joint security forces, led by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, closed in on the militants hiding in the dense Ghati Juthana area near Jakhole village. The terrorists, suspected to have infiltrated from across the International Border days earlier, opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange that has left five security personnel injured, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police and a para commando. Reinforcements, supported by drones, helicopters, and sniffer dogs, have been deployed to flush out any remaining threats.
Sinha’s tribute underscores the bravery of the J&K Police, who have been at the forefront of this high-stakes counter-terrorism effort. “The courage and sacrifice of our martyrs will never be forgotten. Their dedication strengthens our resolve to ensure peace and security in the region,” he added. The Lieutenant Governor also expressed confidence in the ongoing efforts, noting that the J&K Police and security forces remain steadfast in their mission to eliminate the terrorist threat.
The Kathua encounter is part of a broader anti-terror operation that intensified five days ago in the Hiranagar sector, following intelligence about fresh infiltrations. The militants, believed to be the same group that clashed with forces on Sunday, had evaded capture until Thursday’s confrontation. The operation has seen the use of advanced surveillance tools and bulletproof vehicles, reflecting the challenging terrain and the determination to secure the area.
As the situation unfolds, the nation mourns the loss of its bravehearts while saluting the relentless efforts of the J&K Police and security forces. The encounter remains active, with authorities promising a decisive conclusion to this critical operation in Kathua.