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Soldier Killed Kashmir Gunfight Tragedy
Soldier’s Sacrifice in Kashmir Gunfight
A tragic gunfight in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on November 10 led to the death of a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) and left three soldiers injured. The fallen hero was identified as Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of 2 Para, a revered figure in the Indian Army. His ultimate sacrifice was acknowledged by the Army, which expressed profound respect for his service during the encounter in the Keshwan forest. The gunfight in Kashmir unfolded as part of a larger counter-insurgency operation initiated in response to recent killings of Village Defence Guards (VDGs) by terrorists.
Details of the Encounter
The encounter began around 11 a.m. when joint search teams from the Army and police intercepted a group of terrorists in the Keshwan forest. This location is just a few kilometers from where the bullet-riddled bodies of VDGs Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar were found earlier. The operation was part of an intensified effort to track down and neutralize the perpetrators.
The Army’s White Knight Corps posted on social media, noting, “Based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in the Bhart Ridge area. This is the same group responsible for the abduction and killing of two VDGs. Contact was established, and a firefight ensued.” The gunfight in Kashmir led to injuries among four soldiers, including Naib Subedar Kumar. Despite immediate medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries, while the other three remain in critical condition.
Tribute to Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar
In its official statement, the Army paid homage to the late soldier: “General Officer Commanding White Knight Corps and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of braveheart, Nb Sub Rakesh Kumar of 2 Para (SF). We stand in solidarity with the bereaved family.” His dedication and sacrifice underscore the risks faced by soldiers combating terrorist activities in Kashmir.
Ongoing Search Operations
The encounter marks a significant escalation in anti-terror operations in the region. Security forces have intensified their pursuit of the suspected three to four terrorists believed to be hiding in the area. The search operation continues, emphasizing the determination to restore peace and safeguard civilians.
Zabarwan Forests on Alert
Simultaneously, a separate gunfight erupted in the Zabarwan forest range near Nishat, close to Dal Lake. This incident marks the first significant clash in the area in two decades, igniting panic among local residents. The sound of gunfire prompted people to flee as security reinforcements tightened the perimeter.
Eyewitness Abdul Khaliq, a long-time resident, recounted, “I heard gunshots in the morning but wasn’t aware of the exact location. We left our house immediately for safety.” The area, typically used for grazing cattle and gathering firewood, became a flashpoint as security forces pursued terrorists who managed to escape under the cover of dense foliage.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
Residents, including Abdul Rashid, noted how the situation disrupted their routines. Rashid, who was herding cattle when the gunfire started, expressed concern over leaving his livestock behind. “This is unusual for us as it’s usually peaceful here,” he shared.
Security forces have cordoned off the region, limiting civilian movement to prevent casualties. Journalists arriving to cover the story were also held at a distance for safety reasons. One local woman, who wished to remain anonymous, described how she and others collected firewood that morning, unaware of the confrontation that would soon unfold.
Efforts Against Rising Terrorism
The escalation of terrorist activities in Kashmir follows the new security directives from Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, who has ordered hot pursuits of terrorists. This directive aims to prevent any further disruption to the region’s fragile peace. The recent killing of the VDGs and the subsequent gunfights underscore the high stakes faced by both security forces and the local population.
Conclusion
The gunfight in Kashmir is a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining security in the region. While the Army mourns the loss of Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, operations continue to ensure that peace is restored and that those responsible are brought to justice.
Disclaimer: This article is a summary of an unfolding situation based on the latest reports. For more comprehensive details and updates, follow local authorities’ announcements.
