Overview
- Security forces launched a joint Army–Police search in Arahama, Ganderbal, Tuesday night after specific intelligence, and the Army said its calibrated fire killed one militant as the operation continued.
- The deceased was identified by relatives as 28-year-old Rashid Ahmad Mughal from Lar in Ganderbal, and his family denies any militant links, alleging his clothes were changed and that authorities would not return the body.
- Ganderbal Police registered an FIR in the case and reported seizing an AK‑56 rifle, three magazines, and dozens of live and empty rounds from the site.
- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi called for a transparent, time‑bound and independent probe, while the Army said the truth would come out and police said background checks are underway.
- Forces tightened the cordon with UAVs and reinforcements and extended it to nearby villages, reflecting the sensitive security climate in central Kashmir where contested encounter claims have previously fueled public tension.