A violent encounter between terrorists and security forces in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir on August 10 resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and one civilian, with three others injured. The altercation occurred in the Kokernag area as security forces launched a combing operation following intelligence reports of terrorist activity.
Among the fallen were Havildar Dipak Kumar Yadav and Lance Naik Praveen Sharma, who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. The civilian, initially injured in the crossfire, later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.
In a heartfelt statement, the Indian Army, led by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, saying, “Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and all ranks of the Indian Army salute the supreme sacrifice of the two bravehearts. The Indian Army offers its deepest condolences and stands firm with the bereaved families in this hour of grief.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed profound sorrow, stating, “Deeply saddened at the loss of our brave and fearless Indian Army soldiers in a counterterrorist operation in Kokernag, Anantnag (J&K). My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The nation stands firmly with them in this hour of grief.”
Following the casualties, anti-terror operations resumed in the area on August 11. Security forces, including additional troops from the 19 Rashtriya Rifles and Special Forces, intensified their efforts in the Ahlan Gadole forest region. Sources confirmed that a group of Jaish-e-Mohammed militants were using nomadic hutments at high altitudes for shelter. The Army is currently advancing from multiple directions to prevent the militants from escaping.
Thus far, in the ongoing operations, two soldiers have lost their lives, and four others have been injured. Security forces remain vigilant, determined to neutralize the terrorist threat in the region.
