The encounter between terrorists and joint forces of the Army and J-K Police in the Bajimaal area of Dharmsal in the Rajouri district has entered its second day. One terrorist, identified as Quari, a Pakistani national and a hardcore member of Lashkar-e-Taiba, has been killed. Quari, a highly-ranked terrorist leader, had been trained on the Pakistani and Afghan fronts and was active in the Rajouri-Poonch region for the past year. He was believed to be the mastermind of the Dangri and Kandi attacks.
Quari was sent to revive terrorism in the region and was known for his expertise in IEDs, operating and hiding from caves, and sniper training. This operation comes after four army personnel, including two officers, lost their lives in the ongoing encounter. The joint forces, including Special Forces, are conducting operations based on specific intelligence about the movement of a group of terrorists in the area. The encounter has seen intense firefights, and efforts are being made to prevent collateral damage to civilians in the highest traditions of the Indian Army. The operation is closely monitored by the 16 Corps Commander and Rashtriya Rifles’ Romeo Force commander.