
Militants escape
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 20 : A soldier was martyred in a gun battle in Sopore area of Baramulla district today.
Security forces yesterday launched an operation at Gujjar Pati, Zaloora area of Sopore after intelligence inputs regarding the presence of militants in the area.
An official said the operation began with a joint team of the Army, CRPF and Jammu & Kashmir Police cordoning off the area. The search intensified after fire was observed from inside a busted hideout.
Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp
He said that the operation, which was halted due to darkness, was resumed at first light.
In the ensuing gunfight, the official said that an Army man, Pangala Kartheek of 22 Rashtriya Rifles, sustained fatal injuries and succumbed. “Despite sealing all entry and exit points, the militants managed to escape.”
Click here to watch video
Army’s Chinar Corps paid rich tribute to Pangala Kartheek for his “supreme sacrifice”.
In a post on social media platform X, Chinar Corps said: “All ranks of the Chinar Corps salute the supreme sacrifice of Braveheart Swr Pangala Kartheek, who laid down his life in the line of duty. Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolences, and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family.”
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also paid homage to the martyred soldier. “I salute the supreme sacrifice of our Army braveheart Pangala Kartheek. His valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The entire nation stands firmly with the family of the martyr in this hour of grief.”