Two army soldiers succumbed and two others injured as the exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces continued throughout last night, as the gunfight entered its ninth day in the Akhal forest area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district.

Official sources told GNS that four army soldiers were injured in an intense exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces late last night. However, two among the four injured armymen succumbed. The deceased soldiers have been identified as constable Harminder Singh and Lance Naik Preetpal Singh both from 19 RR.

Meanwhile, Taking on to micro-blogging platform X, the army’s Chinar Corps while paying tribute to the deceased soldiers wrote, “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.

Indian Army expresses deepest condolences and stand in solidarity with the bereaved families,”.

Notably, this operation is the longest ongoing operation in Valley, entering its ninth day. On the first night of the gunfight, one terrorist was killed and four army soldiers were injured.

Officials said that since this is a vast, dense forest area, the operation may be prolonged.(GNS)