Day 4 of Ongoing Kashmir Encounter
The ongoing encounter in Jammu and Kashmir has entered Day 4. The prolonged encounter has included all security forces in the challenge against the terrorists. They are holed up in a hilltop cave owing to the difficult terrain providing limited access. On the other hand, there are encounters going on in the Baramulla district as well.
The Anantnag Encounter
The encounter in Anantnag began during a joint operation by the Army and the police to locate and eliminate terrorists hiding in the dense Gadul forest of Kokernag. Tragically, the operation resulted in a soldier going missing, and three officers losing their lives while attempting to approach the terrorists’ hideout atop a hill.
Challenging Terrain and Standoff
The terrorists are well-acquainted with the local terrain and have strategically positioned themselves in a cave on the hilltop. Access to this cave is only possible via a narrow route with a deep ditch on one side. This route, initially used by the officers to approach the cave, exposed them to enemy fire with nowhere to seek cover.
Currently, the standoff continues, with security forces having the hill surrounded. They have employed rocket launchers and drones acquired from Israel to drop explosives. However, the rugged landscape has prevented the Army from establishing dominance over the area.
The terrorists, believed to be well-trained, have access to ample food and ammunition. It is suggested that their numbers could exceed the two to three initially reported.
Tribute to the Fallen Heroes
During the operation, three officers displayed immense bravery but tragically lost their lives. Colonel Manpreet Singh, Sena Medal (Gallantry), served as the Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles Unit (19 RR). Major Aashish Dhonchak, Sena Medal (Gallantry), held the position of company commander within 19 RR. Himanyun Muzamil Bhat served as a Deputy Superintendent (DySP) in the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Colonel Singh’s body was brought to his hometown in Punjab, where a large gathering assembled to pay their final respects to this heroic figure.
Thus, the ongoing encounter in Kashmir has entered a critical phase as security forces strive to neutralize terrorists entrenched in a hilltop cave within challenging terrain. Despite the loss of brave officers, the operation continues, emphasizing the determination to safeguard the region’s security. The situation underscores the persistent threat posed by terrorism in the region and the sacrifices made by the security forces to counter it.
