In a tragic incident that unfolded in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, a fierce gunfight occurred on a Wednesday, resulting in the loss of two dedicated Army officers and a senior police officer.
Among the brave individuals who lost their lives were Colonel Manpreet Singh from the 19 Rashtriya Rifle of the Indian Army, Major Aashish Dhonchak, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himanyun Muzamil Bhat. This heart-wrenching encounter transpired during a counter-terrorism operation in the Gadole area of Kokernag Tehsil, Anantnag district, where terrorists had taken shelter. The operation was launched early in the morning by the security forces, as reported by the PTI, quoting a police officer.
The group claiming responsibility for these attacks is the Resistance Front, a shadow organization linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba. The Indian Army officers leading the troops in the area were acting on specific intelligence as they combed the region for the hidden terrorists, according to statements from Indian Army officials provided by the news agency ANI.
In the wake of this tragedy, prominent figures like former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah expressed their condolences. He shared, “Terrible, terrible news from J&K. An army colonel, a major, and a J&K Police DYSP gave the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter in Kokernag area of South Kashmir today. DySP Humayan Bhat, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Colonel Manpreet Singh laid down their lives in an encounter with terrorists. May their souls rest in peace, and may their loved ones find strength at this difficult time.”
Mehbooba Mufti, another former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, also conveyed her sorrow over the loss of lives. She expressed, “My deepest condolences to the families of the jawans who were martyred today while on duty in Anantnag. There is no place for such heinous acts of violence.”
Sadly, the situation remained tense, with reports of fresh firing incidents in Anantnag on Thursday, just a day after the initial gunfight occurred.
