Army Officer Killed During Anti-Terror Operation in J&K's Rajouri

Lieutenant Beereshwar Goswami was part of a joint security team engaged in a sustained anti-terror operation in the dense forests of the Manjakote sector, where security forces have been tracking a group of suspected militants believed to be hiding in the rugged terrain.

The operation, codenamed "Operation Sheruwali," has now entered its 15th day and represents a major counterinsurgency effort in the region. It was launched following intelligence inputs indicating the presence of heavily armed militants who had infiltrated the forested belt along the Line of Control (LoC) and were attempting to establish a foothold in the hinterland.

The operation involves the coordinated deployment of Army units, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other security agencies, with a focus on area domination, search-and-destroy missions, and sustained surveillance.

The Manjakote area, where the operation is underway, is known for its challenging topography, marked by steep slopes, deep gorges, and thick vegetation, which significantly complicate search operations.

Security forces have established multiple cordons, carried out systematic combing operations, and deployed advanced surveillance equipment, including drones and night-vision devices, to track the movement of militants. Intermittent contact with the suspected militants has been reported during the operation, further intensifying efforts to neutralise the threat.

It was during one such operational movement through the treacherous terrain that Lieutenant Goswami reportedly slipped into a deep gorge. The incident occurred under extremely difficult conditions, with troops navigating narrow, slippery mountain tracks amid dense forest cover and unpredictable weather, officials said.

They added that despite immediate rescue efforts launched by fellow soldiers and accompanying teams, the officer succumbed to the injuries sustained in the fall.

Paying tribute to the fallen officer, the Army's Nagrota-based 16 Corps, also known as the White Knight Corps, expressed profound grief over his untimely demise.

In a statement, the Corps said: "GOC White Knight Corps and all ranks express profound grief over the untimely demise of Lieutenant Beereshwar Goswami, who made the supreme sacrifice while undertaking operational duties. His unwavering devotion to duty, indomitable spirit, and selfless service to the nation will remain an enduring inspiration to all ranks."

The Corps also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul.

Officials said that despite the loss, the anti-terror operation continues with full intensity. Security forces have tightened the cordon around the suspected hideouts and are maintaining a high level of vigilance to prevent any escape by the militants.

Reinforcements have been deployed, and surveillance grids have been further strengthened to sustain pressure on the hiding militants.

The sacrifice of Lieutenant Goswami has once again highlighted the extreme risks and hardships faced by security forces operating in such hostile and unforgiving environments.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid floral tributes to the fallen officer, acknowledging his courage and sacrifice.

In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said he had laid a wreath and paid homage to the brave Army officer, describing his sacrifice as a lasting inspiration for the nation.

"Laid a wreath and paid homage to our Army Braveheart Lieutenant Beereshwar Goswami. The nation will forever remain indebted to his supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. We stand firmly with the family of the martyr in this difficult hour," he said.

The officer's death has been widely mourned, with tributes pouring in from both civil and military quarters.

The Lieutenant Governor also expressed solidarity with the bereaved family and assured them of the nation's unwavering support during this time of grief.

"His sacrifice stands as a solemn reminder of the dedication and courage of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation against persistent security threats," he said.