The J&K terror attacks have caused extreme terror among locals. After the killing of two soldiers in an encounter in Anantnag, another gunbattle erupted in Udhampur on August 11, causing widespread fear and confusion in the region. In response, the Indian Army has launched a large-scale search operation in the dense forests to track down the terrorists. The local Village Guard Personnel, who are assisting the army, have requested automatic weapons to better protect themselves and fight the terrorists. There are also concerns about possible ‘sleeper cells’—secret groups that might be helping the terrorists. On August 10, the police released sketches of four terrorists spotted in Malhar, Bani, and Seojdhar, offering a reward of 5 lakh rupees for information leading to their capture. The situation remains tense as efforts continue to restore peace and security in the area.