In a recent operation named Keller, the Indian Army's Rashtriya Rifles unit successfully killed three heavily armed terrorists. Firstpost
Three terrorists were killed in a fierce encounter with security forces in Shopian, Jammu and Kashmir, on May 13. One more terrorist might still be hiding nearby. The fight started in Kulgam but soon shifted to the dense forests of Shopian.
The encounter began after the security forces received a specific tip. Troops from the Army and paramilitary forces quickly launched an operation. A Rashtriya Rifles unit led the charge based on the intelligence input. The terrorists responded with heavy gunfire. In the shootout that followed, three were gunned down.
Army Launches Operation Keller
The Indian Army shared details of the encounter. It said that the terrorists opened fire first, which led to a strong response. The post on X (formerly Twitter) said:
"On 13 May 2025, based on specific intelligence of a Rashtriyas Rifles Unit, about presence of terrorists in general area Shoekal Keller, Shopian, Indian Army launched a search and destroy Operation. During the operation, terrorists opened heavy fire and fierce firefight ensued, which resulted in elimination of three hardcore terrorists. Operation is in progress."
This mission was named Operation Keller. It is a part of a wider crackdown on terror groups in the region.
Bigger Picture: Aftermath of Operation Sindoor
This encounter comes shortly after Operation Sindoor. That mission was India's response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. In that attack, 26 innocent lives were lost. Operation Sindoor saw India strike terrorist bases across the border, including in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.
The Prime Minister addressed the nation on May 12. He spoke clearly about India's new approach. “First, if there is a terrorist attack on India, a fitting reply will be given. We will give a befitting response on our terms only. We will take strict action at every place from where the roots of terrorism emerge,” he said.
He also warned that India will no longer accept any kind of nuclear blackmail. “India will strike precisely and decisively at the terrorist hideouts developing under the cover of nuclear blackmail,” the PM added.
He said there would be no difference between those who sponsor terrorism and those who plan it. He cited examples from Operation Sindoor, where senior Pakistani army officers were seen bidding farewell to terrorists. This, he said, proves Pakistan’s support for terrorism.
India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate
Following Operation Sindoor, India carried out airstrikes on May 7. These were aimed at terrorist camps inside Pakistan and PoK. India made it clear that only terror sites were targeted. In response, Pakistan fired shells and launched drone attacks on civilian areas. Several civilians died. India’s defence systems stopped most of the attacks.
India then responded by hitting key military bases in Pakistan. The damage was said to be severe. On May 10, both countries agreed to a ceasefire. But India’s armed forces remain alert. Any fresh threat, they say, will be dealt with strongly.
