"This is very sad, but it is part of our duty": Udhampur DIG Bhat on CRPF inspector's sacrifice

Udhampur (Jammu & Kashmir) [India] August 20 : In a tragic incident, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) inspector was martyred during an intense encounter with terrorists in the Cheel and Dudu regions of Udhampur district on 19th August 2024.
The operation was a joint effort by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF, aimed at neutralising the terrorist threat in the area.
The encounter broke out during an area domination patrol when the security forces came under heavy fire.
The brave CRPF Inspector, identified as Kuldeep Singh of the 187 Battalion, succumbed to bullet injuries sustained during the exchange.
"This is very sad, but it is part of our duty," said Rayees Mohammad Bhat, Deputy Inspector General of Police Udhampur-Reasi Range.
"It is a jungle area, without roads and network. Here, we are facing various challenges. We are using technology and drones, and we are trying to neutralise the threat as soon as possible."
Bhat described the terrain as particularly challenging, with dense forests, hilly topography, and poor network coverage, complicating the operation.
He added, "Despite these hurdles, we are committed to our duty, and the area is being thoroughly sanitised."
Security has been tightened across the region in response to the encounter, with forces remaining vigilant against further threats.
The CRPF, in a statement on X, expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of Inspector Singh, saluting his courage and dedication to duty.
"On 19 August, in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, brave Inspector Kuldeep Singh of 187 Battalion CRPF sacrificed his life on the altar of duty while fighting the terrorists. CRPF salutes our brave soldier's indomitable courage, valour, and devotion to the motherland. We always stand with the family of our brave man," read the statement.
The ongoing operation continues to search for and neutralise the remaining terrorists, with modern technology, including drones, being employed to aid in the search efforts.
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir, as the region prepares for its upcoming assembly elections after a decade-long gap.
The elections are set to take place in three phases, with polling scheduled for September and October, and the counting of votes to follow on October 4th.
The security situation remains a critical concern as the polling dates approach.