Poonch, Jan 4: The encounter which started on Thursday, Jan 1 in the Mendhar area of Poonch is still on. It has been more than 50 hours since the encounter began. One policeman and two army two army jawan lost their lives in the fierce battle.

&13;Four militants are killed so far. The area were the battle is being held is cordoned off and an additional reinforcement of police and army have been brought. Reports suggest that the gunmen are Lashkar-e-Toiba members.

The trees close to the Line of Control in Mendhar helped militants by providing good cover, resulting in killing two jawans and a special police officer. Police sources suspect that there are more militants still hiding in the forest as the retaliatory firing is heavy.

Police and army were monitoring the area after they received the reports of militants intruding. This is one of the longest encounters in the area in recent times. The operation is prolonged by bad weather and poor visibility.

The land of Jammu Kashmir saw a peaceful election just few weeks ago. It seems that the people of JK should wait more to achieve a peaceful and fearless life. In the wake of strained relations between India and neighbouring Pakistan, the chances of militancy once again taking centre stage is high. Dealing with militancy can perhaps be the biggest challenge to the new government which will take charge in Jammu Kashmir soon also for rest of India.

&13;OneIndia News (With inputs from Agencies)