Tragic Loss in Doda: Four Indian Army Soldiers, Including Major, Martyred in Terror Encounter

New Delhi: In a tragic turn of events in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, four Indian Army personnel, including Major Brijesh Thappa of the 10 Rashtriya Rifles, lost their lives in a fierce encounter with terrorists. The clash began late Monday evening in the Desa forest area, approximately 55 km from Doda town, during a joint cordon and search operation by the Rashtriya Rifles and the Special Operations Group of the J&K Police. This incident adds to the escalating series of violent confrontations in the region, highlighting the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups.

The confrontation commenced around 7:45 PM when security forces initiated a search operation aimed at suspected terrorist hideouts in the Dhari Gote Urarbagi area of the Desa forest. The operation was launched based on intelligence indicating the presence of militants. The initial exchange of gunfire lasted over 20 minutes, resulting in critical injuries to five security personnel, including Major Thappa. Despite immediate medical evacuation efforts, four of the injured soldiers tragically succumbed to their wounds.

The Kashmir Tigers, a shadow group associated with the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), has claimed responsibility for the attack. In their statement, the group asserted that the clash occurred while security forces were conducting operations to apprehend “Mujahideen” fighters. This group had previously claimed responsibility for an attack on an Indian Army convoy in Kathua on July 9, indicating their active presence and operations in the region.

Following the encounter, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh contacted the Indian Army Chief for updates on the ground situation and the ongoing operation in Doda. Singh’s engagement underscores the gravity of the situation and the high-level monitoring of counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Helicopters and drones have been deployed to track the fleeing terrorists, underscoring the advanced measures taken to neutralize the threat. The area’s challenging terrain and dense foliage have posed significant operational difficulties, yet the security forces remain steadfast in their efforts.

The incident has evoked strong reactions from political leaders and public figures. Union Minister Jitendra Singh, representing the Doda Lok Sabha constituency, expressed profound sorrow over the encounter, stating, “Words are inadequate to express our condolences and condemn the sacrifice of our brave soldiers.” This sentiment reflects the somber mood prevailing across the nation.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also extended heartfelt condolences, saying, “Deeply distressed by the martyrdom of four courageous Army soldiers, including an officer, in a terrorist encounter in Jammu & Kashmir’s Doda. Our thoughts are with the families of these brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.”

This encounter is part of a broader pattern of escalating violence in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier this month, gunmen ambushed an Army convoy, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers. Separate clashes claimed the lives of two soldiers and six terrorists. Additionally, in June, terrorists attacked a bus carrying pilgrims in the southern Reasi area, killing nine pilgrims and injuring dozens more.

The persistent threat posed by terrorist groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammad and their affiliated factions like the Kashmir Tigers underscores the volatile security situation in the region. These groups exploit the challenging terrain and political complexities of Jammu and Kashmir to launch attacks against Indian security forces and civilians.

The Doda encounter serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in Jammu and Kashmir and the sacrifices made by Indian security personnel to uphold peace and security. The loss of Major Brijesh Thappa and his fellow soldiers is a profound tragedy that highlights the human cost of this enduring conflict. As the nation mourns their loss, the unwavering determination of the security forces to combat terrorism remains steadfast. The government’s response, including deploying advanced surveillance and tracking measures, underscores a resolute effort to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace in the region.