An Indian Army paratrooper, critically wounded during a fierce gun battle with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, has died from his injuries. Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces passed away while receiving treatment at a military hospital in Jammu. His death occurred during the night of January 18-19, 2026.
Army Pays Tribute to Fallen Soldier
The White Knight Corps confirmed the sad news through a post on social media platform X. The statement expressed deep sorrow and paid solemn tribute to the brave soldier.
"The GOC, White Knight Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces, who made the supreme sacrifice while gallantly executing a Counter Terrorism operation in the Singpura area during the ongoing Operation TRASHI-I on the intervening night of 18-19 Jan 2026," the post read.
The military formation honored his indomitable courage, valour and selfless devotion to duty. They also stated their firm support for the bereaved family during this time of profound grief.
Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, the Indian Army's northern commander, also paid homage to Havildar Gajendra Singh. He emphasized that the soldier's sacrifice and devotion would remain forever etched in their hearts.
Operation Trashi-I Continues in Challenging Terrain
The operation that claimed Havildar Gajendra Singh's life began in Sonnar village near Mandral-Singhpora in the Chatroo belt. Security forces engaged terrorists there on Sunday, resulting in eight soldiers sustaining injuries. These injuries primarily resulted from splinters caused by a sudden grenade attack.
Authorities temporarily suspended the operation late Sunday night due to difficult conditions. They resumed activities early Monday morning in an area characterized by:
- Thick vegetation
- Steep slopes
- Limited visibility
- Restricted movement
In a separate X post, the White Knight Corps confirmed that Operation Trashi-I continues in Chatroo. Security forces have further tightened the cordon and expanded search operations. Troops from the corps, along with Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF personnel, remain deployed to dominate the area completely.
Multi-Agency Search Intensifies
Multiple teams from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces are now combing the region. They receive support from advanced technology and trained animals:
- Surveillance drones providing aerial reconnaissance
- Sniffer dogs assisting in tracking operations
Officials maintain a tight security cordon to prevent any terrorists from escaping the area. Search teams have already achieved one significant breakthrough. They discovered and busted a terrorist hideout near the gunfight site.
From this hideout, security forces recovered a substantial quantity of supplies, including:
- Food rations
- Cooking utensils
- Gas cylinders
- Stoves
Terrorist Presence in the Area
Officials believe that a small group of two to three terrorists remains hidden in the region. These individuals are allegedly affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), a Pakistan-based terror organization. The operation resumed at first light and was ongoing when last reports came in.
This Kishtwar gunfight represents the third encounter between security forces and militants in the Jammu region this year. Previous engagements occurred in:
- Kahog forest in Billawar area, Kathua district on January 7
- Najote forest in Billawar area, Kathua district on January 13
The Indian Army continues its determined efforts to neutralize terrorist threats in the region while honoring those who make the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.
