The Border Security Force (BSF) successfully foiled a significant infiltration attempt by nearly 50 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba district on May 8, acting swiftly under challenging circumstances marked by heavy cross-border shelling by Pakistan. Intelligence had indicated the movement of a large terrorist group trying to cross the International Border, prompting the BSF to stay on high alert. The terrorists’ attempt was reportedly supported by Pakistan and carried out during ceasefire violations involving intense firing along the border.
Vigilant Defense Amid Hostile Shelling
According to BSF Deputy Inspector General (DIG) SS Mand, the infiltrators numbered between 45 and 50 and advanced toward the Indian border post while Pakistan provided cover with heavy firing. DIG Mand explained that Indian forces were prepared due to prior intelligence and responded with precise and heavy firepower. “Our brave soldiers inflicted substantial losses on the terrorists. We detected their movement early and were ready to counter them,” he said. The encounter lasted about one and a half hours, during which the BSF successfully destroyed enemy bunkers and degraded their fire capabilities, forcing the terrorists to retreat. DIG Mand emphasized the high morale among the troops and specifically praised the dedication and effectiveness of women soldiers, who stood shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts throughout the operation.
Renewed Border Activities and Operational Context
In the wake of rising tensions following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 civilian lives, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 7. This operation targeted terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, neutralizing over 100 terrorists linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. Pakistan retaliated with cross-border shelling and drone attacks, which were effectively countered by Indian forces by targeting Pakistan’s air defense systems and multiple airbases. On May 10, a ceasefire agreement was reached to halt military actions by both sides.
Amid this backdrop, the BSF has resumed the Beating Retreat ceremony at key Punjab border posts—Attari-Wagah, Hussainiwala, and Sadqi—restoring a symbol of peace and tradition that was paused following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, also visited the Poonch Brigade headquarters recently, meeting with Army and BSF personnel to acknowledge their efforts and boost morale amid the ongoing security challenges.
