Jammu & Kashmir: Army Soldier Martyred in Ongoing Encounter with Pakistan-Sponsored Terrorists in Kishtwar
Kishtwar, May 23, 2025: A brave Indian Army soldier, injured during a fierce encounter with terrorists in the Singhpora area of Chatroo, Kishtwar district, on Thursday morning, has succumbed to his injuries, attaining martyrdom. The operation, codenamed “Op Trashi,” is still underway as security forces engage with three to four heavily armed terrorists believed to be affiliated with the Pakistan-sponsored Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit.
The encounter began early Thursday when a joint team of the Indian Army’s 2 Para Special Forces, 11 Rashtriya Rifles, 7th Assam Rifles, and the Jammu & Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG) launched a cordon-and-search operation based on precise intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. As the forces closed in on the suspected hideout, the terrorists opened fire, triggering a heavy exchange of gunfire.
Sepoy Sandeep Pandurang of the 17 Rashtriya Rifles was critically injured during the initial exchange and, despite receiving prompt medical attention, made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Two other soldiers were also injured in the operation, which continues as additional troops have been deployed to neutralize the trapped terrorists.
The Indian Army’s White Knight Corps confirmed the soldier’s martyrdom in a statement on X: “During the ongoing operation, fierce gunfight is continuing. One of our #Bravehearts sustained grievous injuries in the exchange of fire and has succumbed despite best medical efforts. Operation is in progress.”
Reports indicate that two terrorists have been killed in the ongoing gunfight, with efforts intensifying to eliminate the remaining militants. The operation follows a series of anti-terror missions in the region, including recent encounters in Shopian and Tral, where six terrorists were neutralized, and comes in the wake of heightened security measures after the deadly Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 civilian lives.
The encounter underscores the ongoing challenge of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, with security forces maintaining a tight cordon to prevent the terrorists’ escape. The nation mourns the loss of Sepoy Sandeep Pandurang, saluting his courage and sacrifice in the fight against terrorism.
Further details are awaited as the operation progresses.
