Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid his respects and laid a wreath in tribute to the courageous sacrifices made by Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Aashish Dhonchak during a counter-terrorism operation in Anantnag.
In a solemn moment, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and emphasized that the entire nation would be forever hold a deep sense of gratitude for our valiant heroes.
The mortal remains of these brave officers will be transported to their respective hometowns, where they will be accorded the highest military honors during their last rites.
Tragic Loss of Heroes
In a tragic incident, three distinguished officers—Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles; Major Aashish Dhonchak, also from the 19 RR; and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzamil Bhat, recently stationed in the area—lost their lives during a fierce encounter with terrorists at Gadole village in Kokernag.
The operation to eliminate the militants remains ongoing in the region, highlighting the unwavering commitment of the security forces to ensure peace and security.
Details of the Anantnag Encounter
The confrontation unfolded in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the tragic demise of two senior army officers and a senior police officer. Among the fallen heroes were Colonel Manpreet Singh from the 19 Rashtriya Rifle of the Indian Army, Major Aashish Dhonchak, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzamil Bhat.
The encounter erupted when security forces initiated a counter-terrorism operation in the Gadole area of Kokernag Tehsil in Anantnag district, targeting concealed terrorists. This operation was carried out following specific intelligence inputs, as reported by PTI, citing a police official.
Responsibility for the attack was claimed by the Resistance Front, a clandestine faction associated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Army personnel led the troops from the front lines, meticulously searching for the terrorists based on precise intelligence inputs, according to statements from Indian Army officials to news agency ANI.
Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference leader, Omar Abdullah, expressed profound condolences for the fallen heroes.
“Terrible, terrible news from J&K. An army colonel, a major, and a J&K Police DYSP made the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter in Kokernag area of South Kashmir today. DySP Humayan Bhat, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Colonel Manpreet Singh laid down their lives in an encounter with terrorists. May their souls rest in peace, and may their loved ones find strength during this difficult time,” he posted on X.