Two Indian Army soldiers lost their lives during a prolonged gunfight with terrorists in the Akhal forest area of Kulgam district, South Kashmir. The fierce exchange of fire, has now stretched into its ninth day- one of the longest anti-terror operations in the valley. Two soldiers are also reportedly injured as the operation continues amid challenging conditions. Eleven security personnel have been injured in the operation since the beginning of the operation.

According to official sources, the intense firefight resumed late last night, resulting in the injuries of four army personnel. Tragically, two of these soldiers—Constable Harminder Singh and Lance Naik Preetpal Singh, both serving with the 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR)—succumbed to their injuries. The loss has been deeply felt across the ranks in army other forces.

The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army took to the micro-blogging platform X to honor the fallen soldiers “Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of the Bravehearts, L/Nk Pritpal Singh and Sep Harminder Singh, in line of duty for the Nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us.” The army further expressed its deepest condolences and solidarity with the bereaved families during this difficult time.

This ongoing operation marks one of the longest engagements in the Kashmir valley’s recent history of terrorism, with initial encounter resulting in the death of one terrorist and injuries to four soldiers on the first night. Officials have indicated that due to the dense and expansive nature of the forest terrain, the operation may continue for an extended period as security forces work diligently to neutralize other remaining terrorists.

Security forces killed two terrorists in an encounter that began on August 1 during a cordon and search operation in a forest area of Akhal, South Kashmir.