Indian Army Havildar Dies in Kishtwar Gunfight During Counter-Terrorism Operation

In a tragic incident, Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Indian Army lost his life after being injured in a gunfight with militants in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The operation, part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, saw Singh and several other soldiers engaged in a fierce confrontation. As security forces continue their search in the area, tributes pour in for the brave soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice. Read on for more details about this heartbreaking event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 20, 2026, 15:29 IST

Tragic Loss in Kishtwar

A havildar from the Indian Army lost his life on Monday following injuries sustained during a gunfight with suspected militants in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir the previous day.

The White Knight Corps of the Army announced that Havildar Gajendra Singh “made the ultimate sacrifice while bravely carrying out a Counter Terrorism operation in the Singpura area during the ongoing Operation TRASHI-I on the night of January 18-19, 2026.”

Singh was one of eight soldiers who were injured during the clash that erupted between security forces and militants on Sunday, as reported by unnamed officials during an operation initiated in the Chhatru area.

The operation was initiated in response to the suspected militant presence in the area, according to officials.

During the incident, the soldiers were targeted by militants using grenades and AK-47 fire as they approached the search parties on Sunday afternoon, as reported by unnamed officials.

Following a temporary halt, security forces resumed their search efforts in the region on Monday morning.