Kashmir Tigers, identified as a proxy group linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), has claimed responsibility for the recent deadly encounter in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, where four Indian Army personnel, including a major, lost their lives. The group asserted that the firefight erupted during a search operation conducted by security forces to locate militants.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was briefed by the Indian Army chief on the ground situation and the ongoing operation following the incident in Doda. This encounter comes shortly after Kashmir Tigers also claimed responsibility for an attack on an Indian Army convoy in Kathua earlier this month.
Among the deceased soldiers was Major Brijesh Thappa of 10 Rashtriya Rifles, who had recently been promoted. The clash occurred during a joint operation by Rashtriya Rifles and the Special Operations Group of Jammu and Kashmir Police in the dense forests of Dhari Gote Urarbagi, about 55 km from Doda town, late Monday evening.
Despite challenging terrain and thick vegetation, the security forces pursued the militants after an initial exchange of fire, resulting in another confrontation later in the night. Five soldiers sustained critical injuries during the encounter, with four, including the officer, succumbing to their wounds.
In response to the incident, helicopters and drones have been deployed to track down the fleeing terrorists. Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed deep distress over the encounter, emphasizing condolences for the fallen soldiers and condemning the act of violence.
This tragic incident follows previous violent episodes in the region, including attacks on security personnel and civilians, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.