India, Nov. 5 -- An encounter between security forces and a group of Pakistani terrorists started in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district on Wednesday morning, officials said.

"Security forces and Jammu and Kashmir Police had launched a joint operation based on specific intelligence inputs. During the operation, contact was established with terrorists and a fierce exchange of fire ensued," said a senior police officer.

Kishtwar senior superintendent of police Naresh Singh said the encounter started around 7.30am.

The area has been cordoned off and the operation is underway.

The army's White Knight Corps confirmed the development on X: "In an intelligence-based operation, in concert with @jk_police, in the early morning hours today, a...