An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Narla village of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. One terrorist was killed while an army jawan was martyred and three other security personnel, including a Special Police Officer (SPO), were injured.
The security forces launched a search and cordon operation in the forested Patrada area on Monday evening after noticing suspicious movement of two persons. The suspects managed to escape from the scene but left behind a rucksack along with some clothes and other articles.
The cordon and search operation was extended to nearby areas, including Bambel and Narla, to track down the terrorists. The search operation was still underway at the time of writing this report.
A Defence spokesperson said a brave Army dog, a six-year-old female Labrador from 21 Army Dog Unit, also lost its life in the encounter while saving its handler. The dog, named Kent, was leading a column of soldiers on the trail of the fleeing terrorists when it came under heavy fire. It shielded its handler from the bullets and laid down its life in the process.
The border districts of Rajouri and Poonch have witnessed several encounters this year, resulting in the killing of about 26 terrorists and 10 security personnel. Most of the terrorists were killed while attempting to sneak into Indian territory from across the border.
The security forces have stepped up their operations in the region to prevent infiltration by terrorists. They have also been working to improve the coordination between the different security agencies in the area.
The encounter in Narla is a reminder of the dangers faced by the security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. The sacrifices made by the soldiers and the Army dog Kent are a testament to their courage and dedication.
The government has expressed its condolences to the families of the martyred soldier and the Army dog. It has also announced a compensation of Rs 1 crore to the family of the soldier and Rs 50 lakh to the family of the dog.
