Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir: Two Army soldiers were killed and two others injured during an overnight encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district, officials confirmed on Saturday. The anti-terror operation, which began on August 1, entered its ninth day.

The operation started after security forces launched a cordon and search in a forest at Akhal in south Kashmir, based on specific intelligence about terrorist presence. So far, two terrorists have been killed, though their identities and group affiliations remain unknown.

The Army’s Srinagar-based Chinar Corps honoured the fallen soldiers, Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, in a statement on X. “Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us,” the Corps said, adding that the operation continues.

The number of injured security personnel has now risen to nine, including the two injured overnight.

Senior leadership monitors operation closely

Senior police and Army officials, including Jammu and Kashmir Police chief Nalin Prabhat and Northern Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, are monitoring the operation round-the-clock.

Security forces have deployed drones and helicopters to track terrorists in the forested area. Para commandos are also assisting in neutralising the militants hiding in the terrain.