SRINAGAR, Nov 11: Security forces have widened their search operations in Kulgam district following a militant attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) checkpoint that left three personnel injured. The injured personnel have since been discharged from the hospital.
The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday when unidentified assailants, reportedly riding a motorcycle, opened fire on CRPF personnel deployed at a naka (checkpoint) in the Nowpora Akhran area, near Mir Bazar. The personnel were part of a bridge guard deployment when the attack took place. Security forces returned fire, but the assailants managed to escape from the scene.
The injured CRPF personnel were identified as Constable Rakesh Dass of Assam, Constable Santosh Chandru of West Bengal, and Head Constable Somveer Singh of Madhya Pradesh. Constable Chandru sustained critical injuries to his abdomen and spine and was initially treated at the Government Medical College (GMC) in Anantnag before being airlifted to the 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar for advanced medical care. Constables Dass and Singh sustained injuries to the leg and arm, respectively, and were reported to be in stable condition.
Following the attack, a large-scale joint cordon-and-search operation was launched by the police, army, and paramilitary forces in Kulgam and adjoining areas. Additional forces have been deployed, and barricades strengthened. Investigators are also examining CCTV footage from nearby locations to identify the perpetrators.
Security agencies are suspected to be involved in the incident, with some reports indicating a possible link to local militant commanders. The attack occurred on a day when Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was scheduled to attend an event in Kulgam, although he was not near the site of the attack.
The CRPF confirmed the firing on the naka, stating that operations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators and that the injured personnel are receiving the best possible medical treatment. The incident has led to a heightened security alert across Jammu and Kashmir, with increased vehicle checks and surveillance along the National Highway-44.
The Chenab Times News Desk
