Fierce encounter in Kashmir: One soldier martyred

SRINAGAR: A fierce encounter unfolded today between joint forces and terrorists in the Pinnal Dugadda forest of Naidgram village, near Chatru in Kishtwar, Kashmir. The terrorists opened fire on a joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police while they were inspecting the area. A fierce gunfight ensued, resulting in the martyrdom of one soldier and injuries to three others.

It is believed that two or three terrorists are still hiding in the forest, prompting the deployment of additional forces to the area. This incident follows the killing of two terrorists by the army in Udhampur a few days earlier. Tight security measures have been implemented in populated areas and polling stations, as elections are scheduled for September 18 in these districts.

The encounter occurred just a day before the Prime Minister's scheduled visit to Doda, a region that, along with Udhampur and Kathua, has witnessed a surge in terror attacks in recent months. Around 12 soldiers have lost their lives in these encounters, including two army captains and seven soldiers. However, the army successfully neutralized all three terrorists involved in today's operation.