Paratrooper succumbs to injuries in Kishtwar encounter as search operation continues – Firstpost

A paratrooper who was critically injured in a gunfight with terrorists succumbed to his injuries as a massive search operation in the upper reaches of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district entered its second day on Monday, officials remarked.

The operation was launched on Sunday in Sonnar village near Mandral-Singhpora in the Chatroo area, triggering a gunbattle in which eight soldiers were injured, mostly due to splinter wounds caused by a sudden grenade attack by terrorists hiding in the area.

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Army pays tribute to fallen soldier

In a post on X, the Army’s White Knight Corps paid tribute to a Havildar killed during the ongoing counter-terror operation, describing his death as a supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

The Corps mentioned the General Officer Commanding, along with officers and personnel of all ranks, honoured the fallen soldier for his bravery during Operation Trashi-I, which was underway on the night of January 18–19, 2026. According to the statement, the Havildar displayed exceptional courage and gallantry, reflecting the highest traditions of the Indian Army and embodying indomitable bravery, valour and selfless dedication to duty.

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The White Knight Corps also expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, saying the Army stands firmly with them during this period of profound grief.

According to officials, the encounter broke out after security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation around noon at Son Nar village near Mandral-Singhpora in the Chatroo area, acting on specific intelligence about the presence of two to three terrorists. The terrorists opened fire on the search party, prompting retaliation by the troops.

Reinforcements, drones deployed

Reinforcements from the Army, CRPF and police were rushed to the area to tighten the cordon. The White Knight Corps stated contact with the terrorists was established in the general area of Sonnar, northeast of Chatroo, during the joint counter-terror operation. Intermittent firing continued for some time, officials declared.

Drones and helicopters have been pressed into service as the operation continues.

Third encounter this year

This is the third encounter between security forces and terrorists in the Jammu region in 2026. Earlier gunfights were reported in the Kamadh and Najote forests in the Billawar area of Kathua district on January 7 and January 13.

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