The encounter in the South Kashmir district of Kulgam entered the second day on Tuesday as security forces were engaged in a gunbattle with terrorists. “The operation against terrorists in Kulgam has resumed this morning after a brief lull in firing overnight,” an official said here.
The encounter erupted after security forces launched a search operation in the Guddar forest area of Kulgam based on specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists, who opened fire on the security forces.
During the operation, two soldiers, identified as Sub Perbhat Gaur and Lance Naik Narender Sindhu, and an Army major were injured in the gunfight, the officials said. Gaur and Sindhu succumbed to their injuries while the officer’s condition is stated to be stable. A tweet by the Srinagar based Chinar Corps said that it “honours the supreme sacrifice of the bravehearts, Sub Perbhat Gaur and L/Nk Narender Sindhu, in line of duty for the nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us”. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah along with senior Army, civic and police officers attended the wreath laying ceremony and paid solemn tributes to the two brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Kulgam.
In his condolence message Omar Abdullah observed that their exemplary courage, unwavering valour, and ultimate sacrifice will be eternally remembered with deep respect and gratitude.