The Indian Army conducted a wreath-laying ceremony at the Air Force Station in Jammu to pay homage to Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of 2 Para (SF), who lost his life during a counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district. The solemn event witnessed tributes from senior army officials and fellow soldiers.
Joint Operation Turns Fatal for Braveheart
Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar was part of a joint counter-insurgency operation in the Bhart Ridge area of Kishtwar on November 9, 2024. The operation was initiated after reports of terrorist activity in the region. The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, along with all ranks, expressed their respect for the fallen soldier in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter).
The post read: “Sub Rakesh was part of a joint CT (counter-terrorism) operation launched in the general area of Bhart Ridge area of Kishtwar district. We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.”
Encounter Continues in Kishtwar
According to reports from the Jammu and Kashmir police, the gunfight broke out in the Keshwan area of Kishtwar district. Authorities believe that three to four terrorists are currently trapped in the region. The security forces are continuing their search operations in the Saranwan area to track down and neutralize the suspects.
The ongoing encounter has prompted the deployment of additional reinforcements to the site. The situation remains tense as the joint teams of the Indian Army, police, and paramilitary forces intensify their efforts to bring the operation to a conclusion. Authorities have urged the public to stay away from the encounter site for their safety.
Tributes poured in from across the nation, with citizens expressing their condolences for Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar’s sacrifice. The incident has once again highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir.