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Army soldier killed in Sopore encounter

During the operation, security forces unearthed a terrorist hideout. As they advanced, gunfire erupted from within the hideout, triggering a fierce exchange of fire
01:34 AM Jan 21, 2025 IST | SHABIR IBN YUSUF
army soldier killed in sopore encounter
Mubashir Khan/GK
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Srinagar, Jan 20: An Army soldier was killed in an encounter between security forces and terrorists at Zaloora Gujjarpatti area of Sopore in Baramulla district of north Kashmir.

The joint operation was launched by Army , Paramilitary forces and Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday evening after intelligence inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the area. The anti-terror operation, now in its second day, continues in the forested region of Sopore. Security forces remain on high alert, ensuring the area is thoroughly combed for any remaining threats.

During the operation, security forces unearthed a terrorist hideout. As they advanced, gunfire erupted from within the hideout, triggering a fierce exchange of fire.

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In the ensuing gunfight, a soldier identified as Swr Pangala Kartheek sustained critical injuries and was immediately evacuated to the 92 Base Army Hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries on Monday morning.

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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid tributes to Swr Pangala Kartheek. “I salute the supreme sacrifice of our Army braveheart Swr 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,” the LG said.

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The slain soldier has been hailed for his bravery and sacrifice by the Army . The Chinar Corps paid tribute and said “a braveheart's sacrifice resounds through eternity, igniting courage in generations to Come." They extended their deepest condolences to the soldier's family and reaffirmed their solidarity with the bereaved.

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"A Braveheart's Sacrifice Resounds through Eternity, Igniting Courage in Generations to come.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.

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Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolences and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family.#Kashmir@adgpi@NorthernComd_IA,” Chinar Corps- Indian Army said in a post.

“OP GUJJARPATTI, BaramullaOn 19 Jan 25, based on specific intelligence input regarding presence of terrorists, a Joint Cordon & Search Operation was launched by #IndianArmy & @JmuKmrPolice at Gujjarpatti, Sopore, Baramulla. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate fire. Own troops effectively retaliated.Operation is in progress.#Kashmir@adgpi@NorthernComd_IA,” Chinar Corps earlier in a post on X.

The security forces have maintained a tight cordon around the Zaloora Gujjarpatti area and intensified the search operation, suspecting the presence of one or two terrorists still hiding in the vicinity.

According to officials, the area was cordoned off after suspicious activity and gunfire were observed during the search. "During a CASO launched by Police & Security Forces at Zaloora, Sopore, a hideout was busted. During the same, fire was observed from inside. The area has been cordoned off," the Kashmir Zone Police had said in a post on X on Sunday late evening.