Two Soldiers Killed as Kulgam Gunfight Stretches Into Ninth Day

A major anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district has entered its ninth day, with two soldiers and two militants killed so far. ‘Operation Akhal’, launched on August 1, involves drones, helicopters, and para commandos, as security forces navigate challenging terrain to eliminate remaining militant threats.

The prolonged encounter between security forces and militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its ninth day on Saturday, marking one of the lengthiest anti-terror operations in the Valley in recent years. The clash, taking place in the forested Akhal area, has so far claimed the lives of two Indian Army personnel and two militants.

The soldiers killed in the overnight exchange of fire were identified as Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh. The Army’s Chinar Corps paid tribute to their bravery, stating that their sacrifice would remain an enduring source of inspiration. Eleven other security personnel have sustained injuries since the confrontation began.

‘Operation Akhal’ commenced on August 1 after intelligence inputs indicated the presence of armed militants in the dense forest region. Security forces launched a cordon-and-search mission that soon escalated into a sustained exchange of gunfire. Drones, helicopters, and para commandos have been deployed to track and engage the suspects hiding in the rugged terrain.

Senior officials, including Jammu and Kashmir Police chief Nalin Prabhat and Army Northern Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, are personally overseeing the mission. Authorities have indicated that the operation is still ongoing, with the search for any remaining militants continuing despite the challenging conditions.

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The drawn-out nature of the encounter reflects both the complexity of the terrain and the caution required to avoid further casualties. The operation’s outcome is being closely watched as security forces work to neutralize remaining threats while maintaining control of the area.