A soldier was martyred in an ongoing anti-militancy operation in the Zaloora Gujjarpati area of Sopore in Jammu and Kashmir, official sources said on Monday. The operation was launched by joint security forces on Sunday evening, following intelligence inputs about militant activity in the area. During the operation, a hideout was uncovered, and an exchange of fire ensued after militants opened fire during a cordon and search operation (CASO). According to sources, a soldier from the advance team sustained critical injuries during the gunfight. Despite being rushed to a medical facility, the soldier succumbed to his injuries. The Army’s Srinagar-based Chinar Corps confirmed that one soldier was critically injured, stating, “The operation is in progress.”
The Army initially reported the operation was based on intelligence regarding suspicious activities in the area. Following the exchange of fire late Sunday, security forces maintained a tight cordon overnight, resuming search operations early Monday morning. “There has been no fresh contact with the militants, but the search operation continues,” said an official source. The operation comes at a time of heightened security across Kashmir in preparation for Republic Day celebrations. During a recent security review, Kashmir’s Inspector General of Police, V. K. Birdi, directed officers to remain on high alert to ensure a secure environment for the upcoming event.
Efforts to neutralize the militants are ongoing, with joint forces leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of maintaining peace and stability in the region.
