The terrorists are believed to be hiding in the upper reaches.
The encounter between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar entered its third day on Tuesday, January 20. The security forces have reportedly trapped a group of 2-3 terrorists in the dense forest of the Chatroo area.
According to the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps, a joint team of security forces and Jammu and Kashmir police came in contact with the terrorists in the general area of Sonnar, northeast of Chatroo, during the search operation conducted as part of ongoing joint counter-terror exercises on Sunday.
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Eight Army soldiers were injured during the initial phase of the encounter. The terrorists reportedly buried grenades and fired at the joint team.
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Three injured soldiers were airlifted for treatment, while five were treated at a local medical facility.
During the course of treatment, one soldier, identified as Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces, succumbed to his injuries.
Special Forces Havaldar killed in gunfight with terrorists in Kishtwar
“The #GOC, White Knight Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces, who made the supreme sacrifice while gallantly executing a Counter Terrorism operation in the Singpura area during the ongoing Operation TRASHI-I on the night of 18 Jan 2026,” the Army posted on X.
“We honour his indomitable courage, valour and selfless devotion to duty and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this hour of profound grief,” it added.
According to officials, most of the eight injured soldiers had sustained splinter injuries during the grenade explosion.
The search operation was resumed at the first light of the day after the night-long halt. The terrorists are believed to be hiding in the upper reaches. Challenging terrain marked by thick vegetation and steep slopes, have hindered the movement of security forces.
With Republic Day 2026 just days away, Pakistan-linked terrorists have reportedly planned to carry out major attacks. As per reports, some 35 terrorists have been hiding in the Doda and Kishtwar areas and forces have launched an anti-terror operation to neutralise them.
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