In a tragic escalation of violence in the Udhampur district of Jammu division, Lance Dafadar Baldev Chand, a soldier of the Indian Army, lost his life during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in the Basantgarh area. This mountainous region, known for its strategic importance at the tri-junction of Udhampur, Doda, and Kathua, has been a recurring site for terrorist activities.
The White Knight Corps, the operational command of Indian Army units in the region, confirmed the loss and paid tribute to Lance Dafadar Chand, stating, “GOC White Knight Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Lance Dafadar Baldev Chand, who made the supreme sacrifice during an ongoing operation at Kanji, Udhampur. We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.”
The encounter began on the evening of September 19 when the alert troops, acting on specific intelligence inputs, engaged with three to four terrorists taking cover in the Seoj Dhar forest, straddling the Dudu-Basantgarh border, which also extends into the Bhaderwah area of Doda. The operation involved a coordinated effort by the Army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police, all of whom came under heavy fire from the militants.
In response to the escalating situation, reinforcements, including drone units and sniffer dog teams, were dispatched from both Udhampur and Doda. The intensity of the ongoing operation highlights the high operational stakes in the area, which has seen multiple confrontations between security forces and militants over the recent months.
The Indian Army reiterated its unwavering commitment to neutralizing threats in the region while ensuring the safety of the local population. In a poignant moment, the army also vowed to provide continued support to the family of Lance Dafadar Chand as they navigate this devastating loss. The sacrifice made by Lance Chand underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in maintaining peace and stability in this troubled region.
