Ongoing Kashmir Encounter On Day 4: Intense Gunfight Persists Amidst Challenging Terrain

The ongoing encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district has now extended into its fourth day, as a group of terrorists remains entrenched within a cave atop a hill. The security forces find themselves in a challenging situation, sandwiched between dense forests on one side and a steep hill along with a deep ditch on the other. This intense gunfight initially erupted during a joint operation conducted by the Army and the police on Tuesday night, aimed at apprehending the terrorists concealed within the Gadul forest of Kokernag. Tragically, during an attempt to approach the Lashkar terrorists’ hideout situated on the hill, one soldier went missing, and three officers lost their lives in the line of duty.

Simultaneously, a separate encounter unfolded in the Uri Sector of Baramulla district today, resulting in the neutralization of three terrorists.

Anantnag encounter

In the Anantnag encounter, the terrorists, well-acquainted with the local terrain, have taken refuge within a cave situated atop a hill. Access to this location is restricted to a narrow route, flanked by a treacherous deep ditch on one side. According to credible sources, it was this very route that the officers had taken on Wednesday in their attempt to approach the cave. Regrettably, they found themselves under enemy fire without adequate cover.

The standoff persists, with the security forces maintaining a tight cordon around the hill. Their tactics include employing rocket launchers and utilizing drones sourced from Israel to deliver explosives. However, the difficult terrain has thus far prevented the Army from establishing full control, as per insider reports.

It’s worth noting that the terrorists, well-versed in combat and adequately supplied with provisions and ammunition, likely outnumber the initially cited estimate of two to three, according to these sources.

The Bravehearts

On Wednesday, a tragic loss was suffered as three officers gave their lives in the line of duty. Among them, Colonel Manpreet Singh, awarded the Sena Medal (Gallantry), served as the Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles Unit (19 RR), while Major Aashish Dhonchak, also a recipient of the Sena Medal (Gallantry), held the position of company commander within 19 RR. Additionally, Himanyun Muzamil Bhat served as a Deputy Superintendent (DySP) in the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

Colonel Singh’s remains were brought to his hometown in Punjab, where a large gathering assembled to bid a heartfelt farewell to this hero during his funeral.