Tragic Encounter in Jammu and Kashmir: Four Indian Army Soldiers Killed in Doda
Tragic Encounter in Jammu and Kashmir: Four Indian Army Soldiers Killed in Doda
In a tragic incident in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, four Indian Army soldiers, including an officer, lost their lives following a gunfight with terrorists. The encounter, which unfolded on Monday night, involved joint forces comprising the Rashtriya Rifles and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the J&K Police. The operation was initiated based on specific intelligence about terrorist presence in the Desa forest area near Dhari Gote Urarbagi.
Incident Details
The confrontation began around 7:45 pm when the security forces commenced a cordon and search operation. The operation quickly escalated into a fierce gunfight lasting over 20 minutes. Major Brijesh Thappa of the 10th Rashtriya Rifles, who had recently been promoted, was among the fallen. Details about the other casualties have not yet been disclosed. Five security personnel, including Major Thappa, sustained critical injuries during the initial exchange of fire and were rushed to the hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.
Response and Ongoing Operation
In response to the encounter, additional troops were swiftly deployed to the area to reinforce the ongoing operation. The Indian Army’s White Knights Corps confirmed the heavy exchange of fire and the continuation of the operation through a post on X (formerly Twitter). The situation remains fluid as the forces work to neutralize the terrorist threat.
Official Reactions
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has been briefed by the Indian Army Chief on the unfolding situation. Expressing his deep disturbance over the incident, Union Minister and MP from Doda, Jitendra Singh, reaffirmed the community’s resolve to combat terrorism and uphold peace in the region.
Political Responses
The tragic event has sparked political reactions, notably from the Congress party. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the government’s handling of national security, highlighting what he described as an increase in terrorist attacks since the BJP’s third term began. The party shared a graphic claiming nine terrorist attacks within 38 days, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries among soldiers and civilians. Kharge urged the government to recalibrate its security strategies and called for a united stand against terrorism.
Community and National Sentiment
The deaths of the soldiers have sent waves of grief and anger across the nation. Communities have expressed their solidarity with the bereaved families and their commitment to supporting the armed forces. The incident underscores the persistent challenges faced by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir and the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.
Conclusion
As the security operation continues in the Desa forest area, the nation mourns the loss of its brave soldiers and stands united in its resolve to combat terrorism. The incident is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by the armed forces to protect the country and its citizens. Further updates on the operation and the security situation are awaited as the Indian Army and J&K Police continue their efforts to neutralize the terrorist threat.