Pakistan abetting terrorism in Kashmir: Army

Srinagar, Oct 25: The Defence spokesperson on Friday said here that the Butapathri militant attack in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district was the handiwork of “Pakistani terrorists to disrupt peace and stability in Kashmir”.

“On being fired at, the alert troops swiftly and resolutely retaliated the fire, forcing the terrorists to retreat leaving behind a weapon and rucksack and escape into dense foliage, exploiting a checkpoint and fading light,” the Defence spokesman said. “Regrettably, two Indian Army soldiers, one from Anantnag and the other from Sirsa succumbed to the injuries sustained during the exchange of fire.”

He said: “Indian Army salutes the bravery of Riflemen Kaisar Ahmad Shah and Jeevan Singh, who despite being hit responded and forced the terrorists to flee, before laying their lives in this terrorist attack.”

The Defence spokesman said that actions by these soldiers prevented the “terrorists from causing any further damage and demonstrated unwavering courage and commitment to safeguard the national security and counter inimical agenda of Pakistan abetted terrorism in Kashmir. Their selfless act is a testament to the Indian Army's resolve to safeguard our nation and the citizens.”

He said that alongside the soldiers two porters Zahoor Ahmad Mir of Boniyar tehsil and Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary of Uri tehsil were also killed while serving the nation.  

“It is evident that Pakistani terrorists are, deliberately targeting locals to evoke the fear and terror in Kashmir, which is progressing towards peace and stability. The only ideology these terrorists espouse is of the reign of terror,” the Defence spokesman said.

“Indian Army pays tribute to these soldiers and porters, who laid down their lives while serving the nation and extend heartfelt condolences to their families,” he said. “Indian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our citizens and will resolutely achieve its efforts to combat terrorism and promote harmony in Kashmir valley. The sacrifices of these Kashmiris and Indian Army soldiers will inspire the future generations to stand against the perpetrators of terror.”