Sepoy Sandeep Pandurang of the 17 Rashtriya Rifles tragically lost his life during a fierce encounter with Pakistani terrorists in the Singhpora Chatroo area of Kishtwar district. The joint counter-insurgency operation, which began early in the morning, also resulted in injuries to two additional soldiers, as reported by official Army sources.
The operation, codenamed “Op Trashi,” involves multiple units including the Indian Army’s 2 Para, 11 Rashtriya Rifles, 7 Assam Rifles, and the Jammu & Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG). Security forces initiated the offensive following intelligence that indicated the presence of three to four heavily armed foreign terrorists linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist organization.
During the exchange of fire, Sepoy Pandurang suffered critical injuries and later succumbed, ultimately making the supreme sacrifice while fulfilling his duty. He was from Karandi village in Akole tehsil of Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district. The injured soldiers have been evacuated to a military hospital for medical treatment.
Initial reports suggest that two terrorists may have been neutralized during the operation, although official confirmation from the Army is still pending. The firefight unfolded in challenging weather, with high-altitude terrain and poor visibility hindering the troops’ operations, according to reports from the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps.
This encounter occurs just weeks after another significant clash in the same region on April 12, which resulted in the deaths of two Pakistani terrorists, including a prominent JeM commander. That operation also led to the recovery of a cache of advanced weaponry, including an M4 rifle and an AK-series weapon.
The recent confrontation highlights the ongoing threat posed by cross-border terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir. Relations between India and Pakistan have soured further, particularly following the terror attack in Kashmir on April 22, which has intensified calls for more rigorous counter-terrorism measures. India has consistently accused Pakistan of harboring and supporting terrorist organizations that target Indian territory.
The news of Sepoy Pandurang’s death has sparked a wave of tributes across the nation. Military leaders and civilians alike have paid their respects, honoring his bravery and selflessness. The Indian Army uses the term “veergati” to acknowledge his ultimate sacrifice, steering clear of civilian terms like “martyr.”
The Indian Army has reiterated its dedication to eradicating terrorism from the region and committed itself to continuing its counter-insurgency operations to secure peace and stability. Further updates regarding the ongoing operation and the status of any remaining terrorists are anticipated in the coming hours.
