Jammu: A month-long military operation by Indian forces in Rajouri district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) shows no signs of ending, with thousands of troops continuing search activities across forested areas while local residents grapple with mounting hardships and uncertainty.
According to Beyond Time News, the cordon and search operation (CASO), launched on May 23 in the Dori Maal forest area of Gambhir Mughalan, entered its 29th consecutive day on Friday. Despite the deployment of extensive manpower and advanced surveillance equipment, authorities have yet to announce any major breakthrough from the operation.
The prolonged security action has transformed parts of Rajouri into a heavily militarized zone, disrupting normal life and raising concerns among local communities over the social and economic impact of the continuing operation.
Massive Deployment Continues Across Forest Belt
Indian Army and paramilitary personnel, supported by helicopters, drones, sniffer dogs, para commandos and members of the so-called Village Defence Guards, remain engaged in intensive search efforts across the rugged forest terrain.
Security forces have reportedly tightened the cordon around key locations in Gambhir Mughalan while extending search operations into adjoining areas.
The difficult geography of Rajouri, characterized by dense forests and mountainous terrain, has made the operation one of the longest-running military exercises in the region in recent years.
Senior military officials have also visited forward positions in the Gambhir Mughalan and Naushera sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) to review the situation and assess ongoing operations.
Daily Life Brought to a Standstill
While the operation continues, its effects are being felt most deeply by local residents.
Villagers living near the operational zone report constant troop movement, repeated security checks and restrictions on movement that have disrupted everyday life. Farmers, traders, students and daily wage workers have all been affected by the prolonged security presence.
According to Beyond Time News, door-to-door searches and intensified surveillance have become a regular feature of life in several villages, leaving many residents anxious about what lies ahead.
For families living in the affected areas, uncertainty has become part of daily life. Routine activities that once seemed ordinary now require navigating checkpoints, security inspections and movement restrictions.
Economic Activity Suffers
The operation has also taken a toll on local businesses and livelihoods.
Shopkeepers and traders say customer activity has declined as residents limit travel and movement. Transport services have been disrupted in some areas, while workers who depend on daily earnings face increasing difficulties.
Economic concerns are growing as the operation stretches into its fifth week with no indication of when normal conditions may return.
Local residents fear that prolonged restrictions could have lasting consequences for already fragile household incomes.
Search Operation in Rajouri Enters 28th Day as Security Measures Intensify
Reports of Interrogations Spark Concern
Residents have also reported increased questioning and interrogation by security personnel during the operation.
According to local accounts cited by Beyond Time News, many people have been stopped and questioned as forces continue efforts to gather information and expand search activities.
Community members say the ongoing situation has created an atmosphere of fear and tension, particularly among families living closest to the operational zone.
Observers note that lengthy military operations often leave psychological as well as economic effects on civilian populations, especially when uncertainty persists for extended periods.
Rajouri Remains a Sensitive Region
Rajouri has long occupied a central place in the security landscape of IIOJK due to its strategic location near the Line of Control.
The district’s challenging terrain has frequently been the focus of military operations, with security agencies citing concerns related to movement through remote forest corridors.
However, residents and rights advocates have repeatedly stressed the need to balance security measures with the protection of civilian life and livelihoods.
They argue that prolonged operations should not result in undue hardship for ordinary people who are already living in a highly sensitive environment.
Residents Await Return to Normalcy
As the operation enters its fourth week, many residents are simply hoping for a return to normal life.
Parents want schools and daily routines to continue without interruption. Traders hope business activity will recover. Farmers want unrestricted access to their land.
For now, however, uncertainty continues to hang over the villages surrounding the operational area.
With thousands of security personnel still deployed and search efforts ongoing, local communities remain caught between security concerns and the struggle to maintain everyday life.
The continuation of the operation highlights the wider challenges faced by civilians in conflict-affected regions, where extended military actions often leave lasting social and economic consequences long after the operation itself ends.
FAQs
When did the Rajouri operation begin?
The operation started on May 23 in the Dori Maal forest area of Gambhir Mughalan in Rajouri district.
How long has the operation been underway?
The security operation has entered its 29th consecutive day.
Which forces are participating in the operation?
The operation involves Indian Army personnel, paramilitary forces, drones, helicopters, sniffer dogs, para commandos and Village Defence Guards.
How are local residents being affected?
Residents report movement restrictions, repeated searches, business disruptions and growing uncertainty due to the prolonged operation.
Why is Rajouri strategically important?
Rajouri is located near the Line of Control and contains dense forests and mountainous terrain, making it a sensitive security region.
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