On Saturday, militants attacked a CRPF convoy on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway near Sempora, killing three jawans and injuring eight. They later took over the seven-story Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) building, prompting a major standoff with security forces.
While no hostages were reported, the militants forced civilians to flee the EDI premises. Over 95 people, including women, were safely evacuated during a pause in firing. One civilian, Abdul Gani Mir, succumbed to injuries, while a gardener was also injured.
The area remains sealed as intermittent gunfire continues. The operation, expected to be lengthy, is challenging due to the militants’ fortified position. Lt. Gen. K.J. Singh emphasized the need to retain the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) to manage ongoing insurgency challenges.