Rehan Qayoom Mir
Kishtwar, Feb 23 : General Officer Commanding (GOC) Counter-Insurgency Force (CIF) Delta, Major General A P S Bal, on Monday said that Kishtwar encounter has set a new benchmark in counter-insurgency success, saying that they will continue to neutralise terrorists wherever and in whatever form they operate.
Addressing a press conference in Kishtwar, the GOC, per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the operation was the result of months-long intelligence build-up, meticulous planning and seamless coordination between the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and intelligence agencies.
“This operation reflects perseverance, clarity of thought and a well-defined vision. It showcases the integrated efforts of all forces working together over a sustained period,” Major General Bal said.
He highlighted seamless coordination at all levels—from troops operating on the ground to senior command leadership—as the key factor behind the success of the mission.
“There was complete synergy between the Army, police and intelligence agencies, ensuring calm, composed and precise execution on the ground,” he said, adding that such coordination has significantly strengthened the counter-insurgency grid in the region.
He added that zero causality in the operation reflects the maturity, preparedness and professionalism of the troops. However, he paid tribute to Army dog Tyson, who played a crucial role in initiating the operation and was martyred in the line of duty. The GOC acknowledged the critical contribution of trained canines in high-risk counter-insurgency missions.
Providing details of recent operational successes, Major General Bal said that six JeM terrorists were eliminated in February in separate operations across the Udhampur and Kishtwar sectors, indicating sustained pressure across the Udhampur–Kishtwar belt.
“We will continue to neutralise terrorists wherever they operate in our area of responsibility,” he asserted.
The GOC said intelligence-driven, precision-led operations supported by continuous surveillance and inter-agency cooperation remain central to preventing militant regrouping and maintaining peace and stability in the region—(KNO)
