In the early hours today, taking advantage of bad weather and poor visibility along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machhal Sector of Kupwara, a group of two to three armed personnel crossed into Indian territory and fired upon a forward Army post from close proximity. Alert troops immediately responded, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
During the skirmish, one Pakistani intruder was killed, and a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and war-like stores was recovered. The identification and affiliation of the deceased intruder are currently being ascertained.
Tragically, two Indian soldiers sustained grave injuries in the exchange of fire and were promptly evacuated to the Base Hospital in Srinagar. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, one soldier succumbed to his injuries. The other injured soldier is responding well to treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.
This incident is not isolated. In the past, similar attempts by infiltrators, actively supported by the Pakistani Army, have exploited dense foliage and poor visibility to breach the LoC. However, these attempts have consistently been thwarted by the vigilant and brave personnel of the Indian Army.
The Indian Army remains steadfast in its resolve to maintain the sanctity of the Line of Control and counter any nefarious activities by the Pakistan Army.