In a recent confrontation in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, the situation has turned increasingly grave. On Saturday, a fierce gunfight erupted between terrorists and security forces, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and one civilian. The soldiers, identified as Havildar Dipak Kumar Yadav and Lance Naik Praveen Sharma, made the ultimate sacrifice while engaged in combat with the militants. Tragically, a civilian who sustained injuries during the crossfire has also succumbed to their wounds in the hospital.
The clash occurred in the Kokernag area, where security forces had launched a robust counter-terrorism operation. In the aftermath of the encounter, operations have been intensified, with additional troops from the 19 Rashtriya Rifles and Special Forces deployed to the region. The Ahlan Gadole forest area, known for its dense jungle and challenging terrain, has proven difficult for the troops, further compounded by heavy rain and poor visibility.
The militants, believed to be affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), had sought refuge in high-altitude nomadic huts. They employed guerrilla tactics, including ambushes, to impede the progress of the security forces. As a result, the militants managed to strike the initial search parties before retreating deeper into the forested area. The Army is now conducting operations from multiple directions to prevent the militants from escaping, aiming to isolate and capture them.
The ongoing operation has seen significant casualties among the soldiers, with two confirmed dead and four others wounded. Additionally, one of the two civilians injured in the conflict has passed away, adding to the tragic toll of the confrontation. This situation underscores the complex and dangerous nature of counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
The joint operation, involving the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), was initiated based on specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the Kokernag area. The firefight that ensued led to injuries for two personnel, who have been evacuated for medical treatment. The operation is still in progress, with security forces working diligently to neutralize the threat and restore order.
This recent escalation follows a series of violent incidents in the region. Two weeks ago, an Indian soldier was killed, and four others, including a major, were injured in an attack by Pakistan's Border Action Team (BAT) along the Line of Control in Kupwara. Before that, an encounter in the Doda district resulted in the deaths of four Army personnel and a police officer, with the attack claimed by the 'Kashmir Tigers,' a proxy group linked to the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
The Indian Army has paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, with Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and all ranks of the Indian Army expressing their condolences and saluting their bravery. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has also expressed his deep sadness and offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers, affirming the nation's solidarity with them during this time of grief. The ongoing operations and the sacrifices made highlight the continued challenges faced by security forces in their efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of the region.
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