Op Solki: Two LeT terrorists killed in Rajouri encounter, including top LeT commander Quari

In an ongoing counter-terrorist operation in Rajouri, security forces have neutralised another terrorist, adding to the tally following the elimination of Quari, a top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander. The recent militant, whose identity has not been disclosed yet, was found with weapons and ammunition at the encounter site, as confirmed by security officials on Thursday, November 23.

Quari, a Pakistani national, had undergone training along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and led a group active in Rajouri-Poonch for a year. Allegedly the brains behind the Dangri & Kandi attacks, he aimed to reignite terrorism in the region. Known for his expertise in IEDs, cave manoeuvring, and sniper skills, he posed a significant threat.

During the operations, 5 Army soldiers had been killed-in-action. Among them were Captain MV Pranjal, Captain Shubham Gupta, Havildar Abdul Majid, Lance Naik Sanjay Bisht and Paratrooper Sachin Laur.

Parallel to the developments in Laukikhad, Akhnoor sector, the Indian Army and JK Police have also seized a cache of arms and ammunition: 1 Pistol, 2 Magazines, 38 Live rounds, 9 Grenades, and 1 Battery-operated IED, all delivered via a Quadcopter.

The recovery significantly thwarts potential terror strikes in Rajouri and Poonch, disrupting hostile intentions aimed at instigating violence, as confirmed by security officials.

Mortal remains of Captain M V Pranjal to arrive in Bengaluru

The mortal remains of Captain M V Pranjal, who laid his life fighting terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, will be brought to Bengaluru by this evening, as confirmed by defense sources.

The 29-year-old Army officer lost his life during the ongoing encounter in the Rajouri sector. Hailing from Mysuru and a member of the 63 Rashtriya Rifles, Captain Pranjal completed his schooling in Suratkal, Dakshina Kannada district, and pursued engineering at the National Defence Academy. He is the son of retired MRPL director M Venkatesh.

Former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy expressed condolences, saying, "Heartfelt tributes to Captain MV Pranjal, a proud Kannadiga, who lost his life during the military operation against terrorists in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir."

The Rajouri encounter 

In a targeted intelligence-based operation initiated on November 19, 2023, by Joint forcesin the Kalakote Area within Gulabgarh forest in Rajouri District, engagement occurred on November 22. 'An intense firefight ensued,' said Army officials, resulting in injuries to the terrorists who are now encircled.

“Amidst acts of valour and sacrifice by our bravehearts in trying to prevent collateral damage to women and children in the highest traditions of the Indian Army,” officials had added.

The recent clash in Rajouri follows closely after a gunfight in Behrote, Budhal area, on November 17, resulting in the elimination of one terrorist.Earlier, there were two ambushes in Mendhar, Poonch, and Kandi forest, Rajouri, claiming the lives of 10 soldiers on April 20 and May 5, respectively.

Reports indicate that since January this year, a total of 46 fatalities have occurred in terrorism-related incidents across Rajouri, Poonch, and Reasi districts. Rajouri witnessed 23 casualties, including seven terrorists and nine security personnel, while Poonch saw 15 terrorists and five security personnel lose their lives. Three terrorists were neutralised in Reasi district. Various political parties, such as the Congress and the BJP, are urging for a strong response to counter terrorism.

Ravinder Raina, the JK BJP chief, has emphasised that Pakistan is continuously instigating terror incidents to disrupt regional peace.

"Pakistan has orchestrated yet another scheme by infiltrating a group of terrorists into Rajouri, resulting in the tragic loss of four of our valiant soldiers," Raina expressed.