Srinagar: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Saturday claimed that the police had apprehended several civilians in the course of their counter-terrorism operations following the recent terrorist attack in Poonch district, media reports said.

The National Conference MP raised concerns about whether the police were targeting terrorists or civilians and called on Union Home Minister Amit Shah to address the sentiments of the people, reported India Today.

"Terrorists attacked Surankote and our soldiers lost their lives...Our police personnel detained some locals...Are we fighting terrorists or our people? If we are fighting with our people then we can never win this," Abdulla was quoted as saying by India Today.

He added, "I want to request Home Minister Amit Shah that he should come to Surankote to address people's sentiments. It is important that he tells people that they would investigate the issue and put it in front of people. It is a serious situation and violation of human rights."

Earlier today, the Jammu and Kashmir administration confirmed that the dead body of three civilians was found in Poonch district, and legal action has been started in response to the incident.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the government further said that compensation has been declared for each of the deceased, and compassionate job appointments will be provided to their next of kin.

The Indian Army also stated that the "matter is under investigation" and added that the Army is "committed to extending full support and cooperation in the conduct of investigations".

Meanwhile, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have escalated counter-terrorism search operations in the Rajouri sector of Poonch district.

As a precautionary measure to curb the spread of rumours and prevent potential law and order issues, mobile Internet services have been suspended in the area.

Four soldiers were martyred in the ambush near Dhatyar Morh in Poonch district on Thursday, as heavily armed terrorists attacked two Army vehicles at a blind curve. The People's Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), allegedly affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, has claimed responsibility for the attack.