Udhampur, J&K – A fierce encounter is ongoing in the Dudu Basantgarh area of Udhampur district between Indian security forces and terrorists, with reports confirming the martyrdom of an Indian Army jawan early Thursday morning.
The White Knight Corps of the Indian Army confirmed via an official statement on X (formerly Twitter):
“Based on specific intelligence, a joint operation was launched today in Basantgarh, Udhampur. Contact was established, and a fierce firefight ensued. One of our Bravehearts sustained grievous injuries in the initial exchange and later succumbed despite the best medical efforts.”
The fallen soldier’s identity has not yet been publicly disclosed, pending family notification. Security forces remain engaged in the operation, and reinforcements have been rushed to the region.
Extended Anti-Terror Efforts in Poonch
Simultaneously, a separate anti-terror operation continues for the 10th consecutive day in Lasana forest, Poonch district. The Romeo Force of the Indian Army and the Special Operations Group (SOG) have cordoned off the area, following an April 14 exchange of fire in which a soldier was injured.
Dense forests, challenging terrain, and suspected militant hideouts have made the Poonch operation complex and prolonged. Officials continue searches in suspected infiltration routes along the Jammu-Poonch national highway.
National Mourning Over Pahalgam Massacre
These developments follow the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians—including pilgrims, tourists, and locals—were gunned down in cold blood at Baisaran meadow on April 22. The attack has drawn stark comparisons with the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing, which killed 40 CRPF personnel.
The attack, being called “one of the worst since Article 370 abrogation”, has prompted widespread public anger and diplomatic retaliation from India, including:
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
- Closure of the Wagah-Attari Integrated Check Post
- Travel ban on Pakistani nationals under SAARC visa exemption
- Expulsion of certain Pakistani High Commission officials
A Nation on High Alert
With encounters erupting in Udhampur and persistent militant threats in Poonch, security has been tightened across Jammu and Kashmir, especially along strategic routes like National Highway 144. All agencies, including Army, SOG, and Traffic Police, are coordinating to prevent any further acts of terror.
India mourns the loss of its braveheart and innocent civilians, while vowing strong and decisive action against perpetrators and their sponsors.