Published 09:51 IST, December 25th 2023
Army Chief to assess counter-terror operations in Rajouri today following Poonch terror attack
Gen Pande's visit to Jammu is intended to evaluate the aftermath of recent attacks in the Poonch-Rajouri regions & strategise ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

Jammu: Indian Army Chief, General Manoj Pande, is visiting Jammu today, December 25, to assess the situation following recent attacks in the Poonch-Rajouri areas, reports state. His visit aims to discuss ongoing counter-terrorism operations and the impact of these attacks. Last week, four soldiers lost their lives near Thanandi in Rajouri following a terror attack perpetrated by a Jaish-e-Mohammed affiliate terrorist organisation.
According to sources, there will be a change in command at the 16 Corps responsible for the region, with Lt Gen Sandeep Jain handing over to Lt Gen Naveen Sachdev. The reason cited is the multiple recent attacks in the 13 sector Rashtriya Rifles area. The Army Headquarters is closely monitoring the situation and plans to assign experienced officers to handle these incidents, as reported by ANI. Defence Ministry officials are also expected to visit and receive briefings on the ground situations and measures taken against increased activities by Pakistani terrorists in the region.
Additionally, the Army is strengthening its preparedness along the Line of Control and the International Border to prevent further infiltration attempts by terrorists and continues to neutralise the threat posed by militants in the area. ANI reported that mobile internet services in Rajouri and Poonch will remain suspended due to the ongoing anti-terror operation in Poonch district. Security forces are conducting combing operations, using increased aerial surveillance, and intensifying ground searches, especially in forest areas like Dera Ki Gali and Bafliyaz.
In response to the recent attack in Poonch, the Army has initiated an internal investigation, potentially leading to disciplinary actions against certain officers and restructuring of postings. Civilians injured in the incident are receiving medical treatment in hospitals in the Poonch-Rajouri sector.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has urged the central government and political parties to unite against terrorism, setting aside their differences. Security operations continue to neutralise the threat posed by militants in the region and have entered day 6 as the situation remains tense.
Updated 14:06 IST, December 25th 2023