A soldier was killed on Thursday after security forces established contact with terrorists hiding in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district, following which a gunfight broke out, according to the Army.

According to the Army’s White Knight Corps, the soldier, Jhantu Ali Shaikh of the 6 Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), was grievously injured during the gunfight and later succumbed to his injuries

His indomitable courage and the valour of his team will never be forgotten. We stand in solidarity with the bereaved family in this moment of grief,” Indian Army’s White Knight Corps stated on X.

“Based on specific intelligence, a joint operation with J&K Police was launched today in Basantgarh, Udhampur. Contact was established and a fierce firefight ensued. One of our Bravehearts sustained grievous injuries in the initial exchange and later succumbed despite best medical efforts. Operations remain ongoing,” White Knight Corps added.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have already announced a cash reward of Rs 20 lakh for anyone with credible leads on the terrorists involved.

“Heavy exchange of fire between security forces and terrorists, two terrorists have been eliminated, infiltration bid foiled by the security forces in the ongoing Operation. Large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other war-like stores have been recovered from the terrorists,” Chinar Corps, Indian Army wing responsible for operation in the Valley, said in a post on X