Soldier Killed, Three Commandos Injured in Kishtwar Encounter

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

An Indian Army soldier, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, was killed in an encounter in J&K’s Kishtwar.
Three commandos were injured in the gunfight and airlifted to Udhampur for treatment.
The encounter began as security forces intercepted two terrorists in a forested area.
These terrorists were involved in the recent kidnapping and killing of two Village Defence Group members.
A search operation is ongoing in the area to locate and neutralize the terrorists.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Background of the Encounter
In a significant encounter in J&K’s Kishtwar, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of the 2 Para (Special Forces) lost his life, while three other commandos were injured. The clash occurred in the Bhart Ridge area, where two Village Defence Group (VDG) members were earlier found dead after being abducted and killed by terrorists. The victims, Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar, were community members who aided local defense efforts.

Details of the Incident
On Sunday, November 10, the encounter began when security forces identified the location of two terrorists hiding in the remote forests. A joint search operation by the Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police intercepted the terrorists, leading to a fierce gunfight. During the exchange, four commandos sustained injuries, and they were quickly evacuated by air to Udhampur for medical care. Unfortunately, Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.

Statements from Officials
The Army’s White Knight Corps expressed their condolences, stating, “The GOC of the White Knight Corps and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of 2 Para (SF). We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.”

Ongoing Search Operations
Following the encounter, security forces launched an intensive search operation across the region to track down the terrorists’ exact location. Efforts are underway to neutralize any remaining threats in the area, as authorities prioritize safety and security.

Recent Events in J&K
On November 8, a separate encounter took place in Baramulla, where two terrorists were killed. This operation was part of ongoing counter-terror efforts in response to reliable intelligence. The Indian Army remains vigilant, actively working to eliminate terrorist threats in Jammu & Kashmir.