In a somber development from Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, the Indian Army today faced a severe blow in a terror attack. Three valiant soldiers were killed in action, while three others sustained injuries during an intense gunfight with terrorists. This tragic incident unfolded in the rugged terrains of the Rajouri's Poonch region, a known hotspot for insurgent activities.

The fateful encounter was triggered when terrorists ambushed two army vehicles. The ambush, a sudden and unexpected attack, occurred as the vehicles were navigating through Dera Ki Gali (DKG area) at approximately 3.45 pm. Dera Ki Gali, a strategic location in the region, has been under the vigilant watch of the army, especially since Wednesday night, hinting at the ongoing military operations against insurgent activities in the area.

The army's response to the ambush was immediate and robust, leading to a fierce gunfight. Despite the valiant efforts of the soldiers, the outcome was heartrending, with the loss of three of their comrades and injuries to three others. The encounter, as reported, is still ongoing, indicating a tense and precarious situation.

This incident in Dera Ki Gali is a grim reminder of the challenges faced by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, a region that has been a flashpoint of terrorist activities for decades. The bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers in the face of such adversities are a testament to their unwavering commitment to national security. The loss of life in such encounters is not just a statistic; it's a piercing blow to the hearts of a nation and the families of the bravehearts.

As revealed by the spokesperson, the army's operation was launched following concrete intelligence. The operation, a joint effort, commenced last night in the general area of Dera Ki Gali (DKG). The aim was clear – to neutralize the lurking terrorist threat in this strategically crucial region. The contact with the terrorists was established in the evening, leading to the ongoing encounter.

The attack took place in the Savni area, located on the Rajouri-Thanamandi-Surankote road, at approximately 3:45 pm. The terrorists, exploiting the element of surprise, opened fire on an army convoy. This convoy comprised a truck and a Gypsy, which became the unfortunate targets of the attack. Following the ambush, additional forces have been dispatched to the location, indicating the seriousness of the situation and the army's commitment to countering the terrorist threat.

Further information is being gathered as the situation develops. The defense PRO, speaking to the news agency PTI, reiterated, "Based on hard intelligence, a joint operation was launched last night. Contact was established today evening and an encounter is in progress. Further details are being ascertained." This statement reinforces the proactive approach taken by the military in response to the intelligence received.

The operation, which has been active since the night of December 20, is concentrated in the general area of DKG (Dera ki Gali). This region, now a focal point of military action, has witnessed heightened activity since the encounter began. Army officials provided a clearer picture of the events, stating, "Indian Army troops immediately retaliated after being attacked by terrorists. The troops were going to reinforce a joint operation against terrorists underway in the area since last evening. The operations are taking place in the 48 Rashtriya Rifles area." This response highlights the quick and decisive action taken by the Indian Army troops when confronted with the terrorist attack. Their primary objective was to bolster the forces already engaged in the joint operation against terrorists in the area, a mission that demonstrates the army's commitment to eliminating the terrorist threat in the region.

In a related development, this incident follows a recent explosion within the compound of an armed police unit in Poonch district. The explosion occurred in the Surankote area on the intervening night of December 19 and 20. This event caused damage to the windows of some vehicles parked near the compound, as reported by officials. While no casualties were reported from this explosion, the incident adds to the series of security challenges in the area.

In a tragic incident last month, the Indian Army suffered a considerable loss when five soldiers, including two Captains, were killed in action. This occurred during an anti-terror operation launched by the army and its special forces in Rajouri's Kalakote area. The loss of these brave soldiers underscores the high stakes and dangers involved in combat operations against terrorism in the region.

This area of Jammu and Kashmir has increasingly become a center for terrorist activity in recent years. The army, which has been the primary target of multiple high-profile strikes, faces constant threats and challenges in maintaining security and order. However, it's noteworthy that from 2003 until 2021, this area witnessed a relative lull in terrorist activities. This period of calm was a significant respite from the frequent incidents of violence and unrest that have historically plagued the region.

The situation escalated again with twin attacks in the Rajouri-Poonch area earlier this year, in April and May. These attacks resulted in the loss of ten soldiers, who sacrificed their lives in combat. Such incidents highlight the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the region, where periods of calm can be swiftly disrupted by sudden surges in terrorist activities.

This surge in violence is highlighted by the heartbreaking incidents that occurred in April and May of this year. In these twin attacks within the Rajouri-Poonch region, 10 brave soldiers were killed in action. These losses are not just numbers but represent the ultimate sacrifice made by those committed to defending the nation.

Interestingly, this region experienced a period of relative peace from 2003 to 2021, during which it was largely free from terrorist activities. This period was a significant respite for the residents and the security forces. However, post-2021, the area has seen a noticeable increase in terrorist activities, marked by frequent encounters between the army and terrorists. This shift indicates a concerning resurgence of violence and unrest in the area.

The extent of this resurgence is further illustrated by the number of casualties suffered by the Indian Army in the past two years. Over 35 soldiers have laid down their lives in anti-terror operations in this specific area. Each loss is a profound reminder of the ongoing conflict and the dangers faced by the security forces operating in such volatile environments.

The Rajouri-Poonch region's transformation into a focal point of terrorist activities is a critical concern for national security. The Indian Army's continued efforts and sacrifices in combating terrorism in this area are pivotal in maintaining peace and stability. As the situation develops, the hope is for a resolution that brings lasting peace to the region, honoring the sacrifices of those who have fallen in the line of duty.