Three militants killed in Kashmir gunfight after PM Modi’s stern warning

A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a stern warning against terrorism, security forces killed three militants in a fierce gunfight in the upper reaches of Shopian district in South Kashmir on May 13.

The operation erupted early morning when locals reported gunshots, prompting a swift response from security forces. Senior police officials confirmed the presence of militants, triggering a heavy exchange of fire. As the encounter progressed, at least three militants were neutralized. The identities and affiliations of the deceased are yet to be disclosed.

The area remains under tight cordon as the operation continues, with officials withholding further details due to the sensitive nature of the ongoing engagement.

This development comes on the heels of PM Modi’s powerful address, where he vowed decisive action in the fight against terrorism. “We will not differentiate between the terrorists and those who sponsor them,” Modi declared, referencing recent Indian strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and across the border.

The strikes were launched in retaliation to the brutal massacre of 26 civilians in Pahalgam last month — one of the deadliest attacks in recent years. The nation has since witnessed a hardened stance from its leadership, signaling a shift in counter-terrorism strategy.

The Shopian encounter also follows the killing of a Hizbul Mujahideen militant’s brother — reportedly a militant associate — during an operation in Bandipora two weeks ago, underlining a renewed push by Indian forces to dismantle terror networks in the region.