Indian Army continues search in dense forest as militants resist capture in one of J&K’s longest ongoing operations.
Two Indian Army soldiers were killed in action and two others injured during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in the forested Akhal area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district, as the operation entered its ninth consecutive day on Saturday.
The martyred soldiers have been identified as:
- Lance Naik Pritpal Singh
- Sepoy Harminder Singh
The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps (15 Corps) paid tribute to the soldiers’ bravery on social media, stating:
“Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. The Indian Army expresses deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families.”
Operation Highlights
- 10 soldiers have been injured so far in the prolonged encounter.
- Hundreds of troops are involved in this high-risk anti-terror operation.
- Drones and attack helicopters are actively being used to locate and neutralize entrenched terrorists.
- The area is a dense alpine forest, complicating movement and visibility for security forces.
Technology & Tactics Used
- Drones dropping explosives on suspected hideouts.
- Helicopter surveillance and aerial support for ground troops.
- Deployment of Para Special Forces (SF) and elite army commandos.
According to officials, the terrorists seem to be well-trained in jungle warfare, making the operation particularly complex and dangerous.
Timeline of the Encounter
- The operation started last Friday after intelligence input on terrorist presence.
- One local terrorist was killed in the initial exchange.
- Top security officials, including J&K DGP Nalin Prabhath, are personally overseeing the operation.
“Yes, it’s taking time because of the difficult terrain and forest area. But we will track them down,” said DGP Nalin Prabhath.
Who Are the Terrorists?
- Initial intelligence suggested the presence of five terrorists, including at least three foreign militants.
- These foreign terrorists are believed to have advanced training in guerrilla tactics.
Previous Linked Operations
This operation follows a recent encounter in Srinagar, where three Pakistani terrorists behind the Pahalgam massacre were eliminated. Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed their involvement in the April 22 attack that killed 26 civilians.
Nation Mourns Its Bravehearts
The loss of L/Nk Pritpal Singh and Sep Harminder Singh is a stark reminder of the sacrifice made by the Indian Army to keep the country safe. Their valor continues to inspire the nation.
As the Kulgam encounter continues into Day 9, the operation underlines the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism and the unmatched resolve of India’s armed forces. The nation stands united in support of its security personnel and salutes the ultimate sacrifice of its brave soldiers.
Also Read : Operation Mahadev: How Indian Forces Eliminated Pahalgam Attack Mastermind in Under 3 Hours
