In a significant counterterrorism operation, the Indian Army eliminated three terrorists in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian district on May 13, 2025. The operation, dubbed Operation Keller, was launched following specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the Shukroo Keller area. The encounter escalated after the terrorists opened fire on security forces, triggering a fierce firefight that led to their elimination.
Details of the Operation
The operation began in the neighboring Kulgam district before the terrorists moved to Shopian. Security forces, including the Rashtriya Rifles, launched a search-and-destroy mission, which turned into a full-scale encounter when the terrorists opened heavy fire. The Indian Army reported that three hardcore terrorists were killed during the operation, though the search continues as there may be more operatives hiding in the area.
Context: The Kashmir Conflict and Operation Sindoor
This operation takes place amid a fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan, which followed India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025. Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which India carried out in retaliation for the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, where 26 civilians, including tourists, were killed. The security forces have been active in combing operations in the forests of South Kashmir ever since.
The Role of Lashkar-e-Taiba
The terrorists killed in the Shopian encounter were believed to be affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terrorist group. This group’s involvement in several high-profile attacks in Kashmir has heightened tensions in the region. Authorities have released sketches of three key suspects believed to be responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack, with a reward of ₹20 lakh offered for information leading to their capture. You can read more about Lashkar-e-Taiba’s activities in the region here.
Ongoing Security Efforts
Following the deaths of these terrorists, security forces continue to monitor the region closely, with combing operations set to continue in the nearby areas. The Indian Army has emphasized that the operation is still in progress, as they search for any remaining operatives hiding in the forested areas of Shopian.
Conclusion
Operation Keller is a testament to the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to neutralize terrorist threats in Jammu and Kashmir. As tensions in the region remain high, these military operations are crucial in maintaining security and protecting civilians from further attacks. For more information on the regional security dynamics, check out our article on India-Pakistan Ceasefire and Its Impact on J&K Security.