SRINAGAR: In a resolute effort to combat terrorism in the troubled region, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, resumed a critical anti-terror operation in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district. This operation aimed to eliminate terrorists who posed a significant threat to the peace and security of the region.
Tragically, the operation took a devastating turn on Wednesday when a fierce gunfight erupted between the security forces and terrorists. During this intense exchange of fire, a commanding officer of the Indian Army's Rashtriya Rifles Unit, Colonel Manpreet Singh, along with Major Ashish Dhonak, and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Humayun Bhat, lost their lives while bravely leading from the front.
The fallen officers, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak, and DSP Humayun Bhat, displayed unwavering valor and dedication to their duty. Colonel Manpreet Singh was in command of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles Unit, and their sacrifice serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by those on the front lines of counter-terrorism efforts.
“An Indian Army Colonel commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Unit along with a Major have lost their lives in an encounter in Anantnag with terrorists in Kashmir. The off-vet was commanding 19 RR,” Indian Army officials said.
In a poignant tribute to these gallant officers, the Kashmir Zone Police took to social media to honor their memory, highlighting their fearless leadership and sacrifice during the ongoing operation. The security forces remained steadfast in their resolve as they continued to encircle and confront two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET) terrorists, including Uzair Khan.
Kashmir Zone Police said: “In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan”.
The nation mourned the loss of these brave souls, with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressing his deep grief over their tragic demise. He paid his respects to DSP Humayun Bhat and saluted the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice made by Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonak.
The last rites of DSP Humayun Muzammil Bhat were performed in Budgam on the evening of Wednesday, marking a solemn moment of remembrance and honor for his dedicated service and sacrifice in the line of duty.
In another encounter that unfolded in the Narla area of Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri on Tuesday, security forces successfully neutralized two terrorists. The operation uncovered a significant cache of warlike stores, including medicines, with markings from Pakistan. This discovery emphasized the continued threat posed by terrorists operating in the region and the ongoing need for counter-terrorism efforts to maintain peace and security.
As the anti-terror operation in Kokernag persisted, the nation remained united in grief and solidarity with the families of Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak, and DSP Humayun Bhat. Their sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police in their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the region from the scourge of terrorism.
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