Army Soldier Killed in Udhampur Encounter
An Indian Army commando lost his life and two others were injured during an intense encounter with terrorists in the Dudu-Basantgarh area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district. The operation, which began following specific intelligence inputs about terrorist movement in the region, remains ongoing.
The fallen soldier has been identified as Havaldar Jhantu Ali Shaikh of the elite 6 PARA Special Forces. The Army paid tribute to his bravery, acknowledging his sacrifice in the line of duty. “His indomitable courage and the valour of his team will never be forgotten. We stand in solidarity with the bereaved family in this moment of grief,” read an official message from the Army.
The encounter began as security forces launched a search operation in the densely forested and mountainous terrain, an area that has seen a resurgence of terrorist infiltration attempts in recent months.
Army Commando Killed
The death of Havaldar Shaikh is a reminder of the dangers faced by soldiers during high-risk counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The 6 PARA unit is among the most decorated and specialized wings of the Indian Army, often deployed in sensitive and hostile environments.
The two injured soldiers are currently receiving treatment and are said to be in stable condition. Military authorities are ensuring all necessary support for their recovery and for the family of the martyred commando.
Reinforcements have been rushed to the region, and efforts are being made to track and neutralize any remaining terrorists hiding in the area. The Army is using surveillance drones and advanced tracking systems to comb through the rugged landscape.
Dudu-Basantgarh Operation
The Dudu-Basantgarh region, with its dense cover and proximity to the international border, has long served as a route for infiltration. In recent weeks, intelligence agencies have reported increased movement of terrorists in this corridor, prompting stepped-up vigilance.
This ongoing operation is part of a broader counter-terror strategy to prevent the regrouping of terror cells and dismantle their networks. Cooperation between the Army, paramilitary forces, and local police has been key to launching timely and effective responses to such threats.
Civilians in the area have been advised to remain indoors and alert security forces about any suspicious movement. The administration has reiterated that all efforts are being made to maintain peace and secure the region from the influence of external hostile actors.
As operations continue into the night, the sacrifice of Havaldar Shaikh stands as a solemn reminder of the price paid by India’s soldiers to defend the nation against terror. The Army remains committed to ensuring that every inch of Indian soil remains secure from those who seek to disrupt its peace.
