In a tragic turn of events, four Indian Army soldiers, including an officer, were killed in action during an intense encounter with terrorists at Desa of Doda district in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. The joint operation, involving the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police, was launched following specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area.
The Army confirmed the initiation of contact with the terrorists around 9 pm, which led to a heavy exchange of gunfire. “Contact with terrorists was established at about 9 pm in which heavy firefight ensued. Initial reports suggest injuries to our bravehearts,” the Army posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday night.
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The operation, termed Op KOTHI – 2, was conducted based on specific intelligence inputs. At least five soldiers were critically injured in the encounter, and officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has been briefed by the Indian Army chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, and has taken stock of the ground situation and ongoing operations in Doda.
This encounter marks the second significant terrorist attack in the Jammu region within a week. Last week, five soldiers were killed in action in Kathua during a coordinated strike on two trucks carrying at least 12 troops. The terrorists targeted the trucks, which were approximately 500 meters apart, using grenades and armor-piercing bullets, including an M4 assault rifle.
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The frequency and severity of terrorist attacks in Jammu, which had been free from such incidents until a few years ago, have raised serious concerns. Over the past 32 months, 48 soldiers have been killed in action in the region.
Reports indicate that over 60 foreign terrorists, trained in jungle warfare, may be operating in the Jammu region. This has cast a shadow of fear across all ten districts of the province.
In response to the escalating situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed the Army to deploy the full spectrum of its anti-terrorist capabilities to eliminate terrorism in the Jammu region. The government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the region and its people.
The nation mourns the loss of its brave soldiers and stands in solidarity with their families during this difficult time. The efforts to combat terrorism in the region continue with renewed determination and resolve.
Notably, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections are slated to be held this year. While a formal announcement is awaited, according to sources, the Election Commission of India is gearing up to hold the elections soon.
