Jammu and Kashmir: Day after Kathua attack, encounter breaks out in Doda; security forces launch search operation

A day after five soldiers were killed in a terrorist attack in Kathua, clashes broke out between security forces and terrorists in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday.

Details of the meeting are awaited.

On Monday, five army soldiers were killed in a terrorist attack. Billawar Deputy Commissioner Vinay Khosla had told reporters that as many as eight injured soldiers had been taken to Billawar Hospital.

“An unfortunate incident occurred yesterday in which 5 soldiers died. Strict action is being taken against the terrorists responsible. 8 injured soldiers have been admitted to Billawar Hospital.”

“Of these six soldiers, the army has shifted them to Pathankot Hospital after they received the best possible treatment here.”

Early this morning, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrived at the site of the attack where the army convoy was ambushed. Five army personnel, including a young officer, were killed in the attack.

In view of the recent increase in terrorist attacks in Jammu district, the Congress party has expressed its concern and said that it is ready to support the government in any step taken to ensure the security of the country.

In a press conference, Congressman Deependar Singh Hooda said the most worrying thing was that the attack in Kathua was the fifth attack within a month.

“This cowardly attack on our army personnel is highly reprehensible. What is worrying is that this is the fifth attack in a month. Recently, there was an encounter in Kulgam in which six terrorists were killed and two soldiers martyred. On June 26, there was a clash in Doda and on June 9, the day of the Prime Minister’s swearing-in ceremony, a bus bound for Vaishno Devi was attacked,” Hooda said.

“The Congress is seriously concerned about these attacks. The government is not taking them seriously. As the opposition, we want to draw their attention to these attacks. Whatever steps the government will take to protect the country, the Congress is ready to provide support. All citizens have the same feeling that these terrorists must be given a response in their own language,” he added.