Kulgam encounter ends, terrorist hideout busted during searches

Kulgam : The two-day gunfight between security forces and terrorists in the Guddar forest area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district ended on Tuesday after two soldiers were killed in action with as many terrorists shot dead, officials said.

An official told news agency that the encounter, which began on Monday morning, witnessed intermittent exchange of fire before being halted overnight due to darkness and resumed early Tuesday.

“The operation ended today afternoon after final round of searches by security forces,” he said.

The soldiers, who were killed in action, have been identifiedas Subedar Perbhat Gaur and Lance Naik Narender Sindhu. An Army major also sustained injuries during the gunfight.

“The Army honours the supreme sacrifice of the bravehearts in line of duty. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. The Indian Army expresses deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families,” a Chinar Corps spokesman said.

Meanwhile, forces also busted a hideout in the forest during which an INSAS rifle along with other incriminating material was recovered.

Officials said the killed terrorists had been using the hideout to survive in the dense forest. The identity of the slain terrorists is being ascertained, though one is suspected to be a Pakistani national—(KNO)