Doda, Jammu, and Kashmir: In a tragic turn of events, an army officer who was injured during a fierce gunfight in Doda has made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. The braveheart, identified as Sepoy Ajay Singh Naruka, hailed from a family of veterans in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu. His poignant last words to his family were, “Leave has been sanctioned, and I am coming home.” However, destiny had other plans.
The Encounter and the Fallen Heroes
The encounter unfolded in the dense forests of Patnitop, where security forces engaged in a relentless battle with terrorists. Four terrorists lost their lives in the intense firefight, but the cost was high for our forces. Alongside Sepoy Naruka, three other valiant soldiers—Captain Brijesh Thapa, Naik D Rajesh, and Sepoy Bijendra—also laid down their lives during the joint operation conducted by the Indian Army’s Rashtriya Rifles and the Special Operations Group of the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Details Unveiled
As the operation unfolded, the terrorists abandoned their weapons and fled, leaving behind an American M4 rifle—a chilling reminder of the danger they posed. Additionally, explosives were discovered in three bags near their hideout. The army received intelligence that the terrorists were lurking near a river in the Akar area, prompting Indian soldiers to launch an assault. Tragically, an army officer sustained injuries during the exchange of fire and later succumbed to those wounds.
A Legacy of Sacrifice
Sepoy Ajay Singh Naruka married just two years ago and left behind his wife, Shalu Kanwar, and grieving parents. His younger brother is pursuing his medical studies at the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bathinda. The Naruka family has a legacy of service to the nation Ajay’s uncle, Sujan Singh, lost his life during a naxal encounter in Odisha, while his father, Kamal Singh, is an army veteran. Another uncle, Kayam Singh Naruka, was honored with the Sena Medal in 2021.
Rising Tensions in Jammu and Kashmir
The recent surge in terrorist activities has alarmed security forces and civilians alike. Former Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid emphasized that the terrorists are adopting hit-and-run tactics, but the resolve of the security forces remains unwavering. Yesterday’s encounter in the Assar area of Doda district underscores the ongoing battle to safeguard peace and stability in the region.
As the nation mourns the loss of these brave souls, we honor their sacrifice and remain steadfast in our commitment to eliminate the menace of terrorism. May Sepoy Ajay Singh Naruka and his fallen comrades rest in eternal peace.
