Kokernag Encounter: Indian Army on the lookout for Hizbul’s ‘Doctor’ Zubair Ahmed Wani

In a significant victory against terrorism, security forces have concluded a seven-day operation in the challenging terrain of Kokernag, Anantnag district. At least three terrorists affiliated with the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were eliminated during the operation. The Kokernag Encounter, however, came at a heavy cost, with the loss of four brave personnel, including Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak.

While the successful operation marks a crucial achievement in the fight against insurgency, the primary target for security forces in the area remains Zubair Ahmed Wani, also known as 'Doctor,' a Hizbul commander trained in Pakistan.

Urgent Need for Tactical Review

While the operation's success carried out by the joint teams of Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police is commendable, the persistence of these terrorist elements calls for a comprehensive review of counter-terrorism strategies. The sacrifices made by the fallen heroes highlight the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in safeguarding the region against insurgency and terrorism. 

Zubair has been known to use alias Abu-Muawiyah (Image: Aurora Intel)

Armed with an MPhil in Sociology, Zubair hails from Dehruna village in Kokernag, south Kashmir. According to a source in military establishment, Zubair's life and his academic journey took an unexpected turn when he joined the Hizbul Mujahideen in April 2018. From a family of labourers, Zubair's transformation from a scholar to an insurgent has been a matter of concern for security forces.

Meanwhile, Kokernag Encounter has also raised questions regarding the effectiveness of current counter-terrorism tactics. Sources within the defence and security establishment revealed that prior to this operation, the region harboured 16 local terrorists and 12 Pakistani terrorists, many of whom have evaded security forces since 2017. These militants were associated with Hizbul Mujahideen, LeT, and the Jaish-e-Mohammed.

The Hunt for Terrorist Leadership

The news of Hizbul Mujahideen's likely appointment of Zubair Ahmed Wani as its next chief operational commander for Kashmir first surfaced in 2020, following the neutralisation of Mir Saifullah. After Saifullah's encounter, the outfit initiated the hunt for its next leader, with three local terrorists from south Kashmir among the top contenders. Zubair's academic background and association with the group have positioned him as a frontrunner.  

As the security forces continue their efforts to counter terrorism in the region, Zubair Ahmed Wani's stature as a Category A++ terrorist associated with Hizbul Mujahideen poses challenges and questions about the evolving dynamics of insurgency in Kashmir.