Indian Army officer killed as Rajouri operation enters 16th day
Jammu: An Indian Army officer died after falling into a 30-meter gorge during Operation Sheruwali in Rajouri district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, as the massive cordon and search operation entered its 16th day Sunday.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the lieutenant slipped in the Dorimaal area of Manjakote forests on June 6 while searching for suspected militants. He was evacuated but succumbed to injuries. His identity is yet to be officially released.
Operation Sheruwali, launched 15 days ago in Dorimaal and Gambhir Muglan by the Indian Army, police, CRPF and Village Defence Guards.
Drones, helicopters and sniffer dogs are in use. A brief exchange of fire was reported on May 23, but troops have so far failed to trace the freedom fighters.
The prolonged operation has severely disrupted civilian life in forested areas along the Rajouri-Thanamandi road, with residents facing fear, uncertainty and hardship amid the ongoing search.
The officer’s death highlights the dual risks in treacherous terrain in the Rajouri-Poonch belt.
