Security Personnel Advance Towards TRF Terrorist Strongholds in Kulgam Under Operation Akhal, Elimination Sites Targeted
In the heart of Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, Operation Akhal is unfolding as a significant counter-terrorism operation. This joint initiative by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army's Chinar Corps, and CRPF is currently in its third day, with at least one terrorist affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF) confirmed killed and two others trapped in the forested Akhal area[1][2][5].
The operation was instigated by specific intelligence about TRF terrorists hiding in the area, necessitating a strategic cordon and search of the dense forest terrain. As the terrorists opened fire, the security forces retaliated, maintaining a strategic pressure while minimizing their own casualties[1].
The targeting of TRF militants in Operation Akhal signifies a significant action against this terrorist group, which has been responsible for several deadly attacks in the region, including the Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives earlier in 2025. The Resistance Front, known for its discreet and new cadre, has been a challenge to track[1][2][4].
Operation Akhal is contributing to counter-terrorism efforts by removing active TRF operatives from the field and disrupting their operational capabilities in south Kashmir. The operation follows closely on the heels of Operation Mahadev, which eliminated top TRF commander Suleiman Shah, alias Musa Fauji[6].
As the operation continues, internet services have been suspended in some parts of South Kashmir as a precautionary measure, and the Red Cross has issued a temporary alert for non-governmental personnel operating in the area[3]. Humanitarian agencies have raised concerns about restricted movement and access to essential services in surrounding villages. Local police, in coordination with community leaders, are working to prevent the spread of misinformation[7].
Public sentiment in Kulgam reflects a cautious support for security efforts, amidst fear of reprisals. Intelligence sources estimate that five TRF operatives were active in the Akhal-Dachigam corridor, four have been eliminated in the last ten days under joint operations[8].
Defence analysts argue that the lessons from Operation Akhal and Operation Mahadev could lead to increased investment in hybrid warfare capability[9]. The Home Minister has stated that India will not allow South Kashmir to be turned into a launchpad for Pakistan-backed terror proxies[10].
The operation is ongoing, with the Indian Army's 15 Corps continuing the operation until full sanitization of the Akhal-Dachigam corridor[11]. The last surviving TRF terrorist is suspected to be hiding in the Dachigam National Park region.
References:
- NDTV
- The Indian Express
- The Hindu
- Business Standard
- Hindustan Times
- The Times of India
- Greater Kashmir
- The Wire
- Defence News
- The Economic Times
- ANI
Here are the two sentences that contain the given words:
- Beyond the scope of Operation Akhal, talks of politics and general-news are discussing potential impact on south Kashmir's political landscape, given the region's strategic importance and the recent crackdown on terrorism.
- Meanwhile, in the sporting world, athletes from Kulgam district are facing challenges in maintaining regular training routines due to the ongoing Operation Akhal and the suspension of internet services, affecting communication with coaches and teammates.
