Two Indian Army soldiers laid down their lives during a fierce encounter with terrorists in Kulgam district as Operation Akhal entered its ninth day on Saturday, August 9. The prolonged counter-terror operation, involving multiple security forces, has already left ten soldiers injured, including two more wounded in an overnight exchange of fire.

The martyred soldiers have been identified as Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh. The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen heroes, stating on X,

“Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of the Bravehearts, L/Nk Pritpal Singh and Sep Harminder Singh, in line of duty for the Nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. #IndianArmy expresses deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families.”

The joint operation — carried out by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, and the Special Operations Group (SOG) — has so far resulted in the killing of one terrorist, neutralised nearly a week ago. The mission continues with security forces maintaining a tight cordon around the suspected hideouts.

In an earlier update on Friday, Chinar Corps wrote,“Intermittent and intense firefight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the noose while maintaining contact. One terrorist has been neutralised by the security forces so far. Operation continues.”

Meanwhile, in a separate development, Baramulla Police busted a terrorist hideout in the Gogaldara–Danwas forest, seizing weapons and ammunition. Authorities believe the hideout was linked to militant networks operating in the region.