Doda encounter claims lives of Army Captain, 3 soldiers, manhunt for terrorists intensifies

New Delhi: Four Army personnel, including Captain Brijesh Thapa, were killed during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in Doda district in three weeks. This attack is the third major terror incident in the Jammu region within three weeks. The terrorists involved are believed to be part of the Pakistan-based banned outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).

The brutal attack has sparked widespread condemnation and protests across Jammu and other regions. The nation mourns the loss of Captain Brijesh Thapa from Darjeeling, Naik Dokkari Rajesh from Andhra Pradesh, and Sepoys Bijendra and Ajay Kumar Singh from Rajasthan, who lost their lives in the Desa forest area gunfight.

Immediate response after terror attack

Following the encounter, security forces, including the Rashtriya Rifles and the Jammu and Kashmir Police, launched an extensive operation to flush out the terrorists hiding in the Desa forest belt. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of lives and reiterated the commitment of the security forces to eliminate terrorism from the region. 

Army's ongoing efforts

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi briefed Defence Minister Singh on the anti-terror operation in Doda district. He stated that the Army has been conducting a series of joint operations with the Jammu and Kashmir Police to target foreign terrorists infiltrating from across the border and moving in the upper reaches of Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar districts.

Rahul Gandhi lashes out at govt

The incident has also drawn strong reactions from political leaders. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the government, stating that such repeated attacks reflect the deteriorating situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called for a strategic reassessment of security measures to address the escalating terror activities.

Governor's assurance

Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha attended a solemn wreath-laying ceremony for the fallen soldiers and assured the nation that the sacrifices of these brave men would not be in vain. He urged the people to unite against terrorism and provide accurate information to help intensify anti-terror operations.

Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including the National Conference and the PDP, condemned the Doda incident. PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti demanded to sack J-K Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain, expressing concerns over the increasing casualties among young Army officers and calling for accountability.