A soldier tragically lost his life on Saturday, September 20, 2025, during an intense anti-terrorist operation deep within the Doda-Udhampur region of Jammu. The mission, aimed at neutralizing a group of terrorists concealed in a dense forest, has now stretched into its second day.
Lance Dafadar Baldev Chand, identified by a spokesperson from the Army’s White Knight Corps, the unit leading the operation, made the ultimate sacrifice. He was martyred during the ongoing encounter in Kanji, Udhampur, on the night of September 19-20, 2025.
The confrontation began on Friday evening, September 19, 2025, in the Seoj Dhar area, where security forces located and engaged three to four suspected terrorists. Officials reported that Lance Dafadar Chand sustained injuries during the initial exchange of gunfire.
The extensive search for the terrorists persisted through the night. As of Saturday evening, September 20, 2025, no casualties among the militants had been confirmed within the vast forested encounter zone.
This critical operation was initiated based on precise intelligence regarding terrorist movements. The Indian Army is working in close coordination with the Jammu & Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group, leveraging their expertise to navigate the challenging forested and mountainous landscape.
Drones Banned in Kashmir
In a related security measure, the Jammu & Kashmir Police in the Kashmir valley has imposed a ban on all unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones. This prohibition comes after reports of terrorist activity within a forest range in south Kashmir, intensifying aerial surveillance.
Authorities have explicitly stated that the operation of drones, UAVs, or similar aerial devices is strictly forbidden within Anantnag’s jurisdiction without prior official permission, citing ongoing security concerns.
The police further warned that any unauthorized drone activity would result in strict action, including the potential seizure of equipment.
Another Soldier’s Demise
Separately, an Army spokesperson in Srinagar confirmed the death of a soldier in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district. The specific cause of this fatality was not disclosed at the time.
Major Apraant Raunaq Singh, a soldier from the Army’s Chinar Corps, was identified as having made the supreme sacrifice while on duty in the Baramulla district.
The Army conveyed its deepest condolences, affirming their solidarity and commitment to supporting the bereaved family during this difficult time.