Operation Kiya

Operation Kiya

Context

The Basantgarh area of Udhampur district (Jammu & Kashmir) witnessed a high-stakes counter-terrorism engagement. Security forces launched Operation Kiya following specific intelligence regarding the infiltration of heavily armed terrorists belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit.

About Operation Kiya

Definition: Operation Kiya is an intelligence-based, joint counter-terrorism mission initiated by the Indian security grid to track and eliminate terrorists holed up in the dense, high-altitude forests of the Jammu region.

Key Features:

• Synergised Command: The operation is a coordinated effort involving the Army’s White Knight Corps (specifically the CIF Delta), the Jammu & Kashmir Police (JKP), and the CRPF.
• Tactical Precision: The mission utilized advanced surveillance including drones and dog squads to trap terrorists within a natural cave hideout in the Jophar Forest, eventually neutralizing them using calibrated firepower and explosives.

Major Outcome (February 2026):

• Neutralization of Commanders: Two top Pakistani terrorists, including a high-ranking JeM commander identified as Rubani (alias Abu Mavia), were eliminated.
• Arms Recovery: Security forces recovered sophisticated weaponry, including a US-made M4 carbine, AK-series rifles, and "war-like stores," highlighting the high level of terrorist equipment.

Significance of the Operation

• Disruption of Foreign Modules: The elimination of long-active commanders like Abu Mavia strikes a significant blow to the leadership of terror groups active in the Doda-Udhampur-Kathua circuit.
• Strategic Area Domination: By flushing out terrorists from natural caves and "dark spots" in the Basantgarh forest, the forces have reclaimed control over critical infiltration corridors.
• Inter-Agency Synergy: The operation serves as a blueprint for "seamless coordination," demonstrating how real-time intelligence from local police can be effectively converted into tactical military success.

Security Challenges in the Region

• Difficult Terrain: The dense foliage and natural cave systems of the Basantgarh and Ramnagar tehsils provide hiding spots that are difficult to detect via traditional aerial surveillance.
• Winter Resurgence: Parallel operations like Operation Trashi-I in Kishtwar indicate a broader trend of terrorist attempts to use harsh weather and snow-covered reaches to establish bases.

Conclusion

Operation Kiya underscores the Indian security forces' commitment to a "terror-free Jammu and Kashmir." By successfully neutralizing high-value targets in challenging geographical conditions, the operation reinforces the efficacy of the joint security grid in maintaining internal stability against cross-border threats.