In a change of tactics, terror outfits in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) are now constructing elaborately-designed underground bunkers deep inside thick forests and elevated ridges instead of taking shelter in local houses, officials said on Sunday (September 14, 2025).
This tactical shift, fuelled by eroding local support, presents a new challenge to the Army and other security forces.
Forces engaging two groups of terrorists in J&K’s forest areas
This came to fore last week during an encounter in the higher reaches of Kulgam district, where two terrorists were killed. As the operation progressed, security forces found a secret trench with rations, miniature gas stoves, and pressure cookers, as well as weapons and ammunition.
One senior security officer, requesting anonymity, said the trend has become widespread in the Kulgam and Shopian districts, as well as south of Pir Panjal in Jammu region where thick forests provide a perfect camouflage for terrorists.
