Operation Sheruwali: 14 Days of Intense Searches in Rajouri

Fourteen days have now slipped by since the launch of Operation Sheruwali in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, and the atmosphere remains tense. The operation, announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs as a decisive step against insurgent activity, has seen troops, paramilitary forces and local police working round‑the‑clock, sweeping through villages, forests and the notorious hills that border the line of control.

On the ground, you can hear a mix of rustling leaves, distant helicopter rotors and the occasional crack of radio chatter. It’s not the kind of calm you expect in a mountain valley; rather, it feels like a lingering pause before a storm, with officers intermittently checking maps, re‑checking intel, and moving on foot or in armored vehicles to cover as much ground as possible.

According to officials, the primary aim of the operation is to locate and neutralise suspected militants who have reportedly been using the dense forest cover to regroup and launch attacks on civilian and security targets. Over the past two weeks, there have been several reported encounters, some resulting in the seizure of weapons, ammunition and communication devices. Though the numbers released by the government are modest, local residents say the presence of troops has been a constant – boots thudding on stone paths, patrols setting up temporary outposts, and sometimes, the faint hum of night‑vision equipment.

"We’re here to ensure safety for the people of Rajouri," said a senior army officer in a brief statement to the press. "Our operations are precise, and we’re coordinating closely with local law enforcement to minimise any disruption to daily life." The sentiment was echoed by a few villagers who, despite expressing weariness at the constant military activity, voiced relief that the security forces were actively trying to curb the insurgency that has haunted the region for years.

However, the operation is not without its challenges. The rugged topography, coupled with weather that can shift from clear skies to heavy fog in a matter of hours, makes any ground search a logistical headache. Supplies have to be air‑dropped, and communication lines are occasionally broken, forcing units to rely on satellite phones and hand‑held radios. Moreover, intelligence on militant hideouts remains fragmented, leading to what many describe as a “cat‑and‑mouse” game.

Human rights groups have called for a balanced approach, urging the forces to respect civilian rights while pursuing militants. So far, there have been no confirmed reports of civilian casualties directly linked to the operation, but the fear of accidental harm lingers in the community.

As the 14th day draws to a close, the Indian government remains steadfast. A senior defence spokesperson told reporters that the operation will continue "until the threat is fully eliminated" and that “the safety of our citizens is the top priority.” Meanwhile, families in Rajouri watch anxiously, hoping the prolonged presence of security personnel will finally bring the peace they have long desired.