Kupwara encounter:Army pays tribute to martyred jawans

SRINAGAR: Army on Thursday paid tributes to three jawans who laid down their lives during an encounter in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir.General Officer Commanding (GoC) of Chinar Corps Lt Gen AK Bhatt led all ranks in paying homage to the martyred soldiers on behalf of the nation, an Army official said.

"Army paid befitting tributes to three of its comrades who attained martyrdom during counter terrorist operations yesterday in Kupwara district in which five terrorists were eliminated," the official said.In a show of solidarity, representatives from other security agencies also joined in paying their last respects, he said.

Havildar Jorabar Singh, Naik Ranjeet Khalkho and Naik Mohammad Ashraf Rather sustained bullet injuries during the operation in Halmatpora area of Kupwara district.

"They were provided immediate first aid and evacuated to hospital but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries," the official said.The mortal remains of the martyrs were flown for last rites to their native places, where they would be laid to rest with full military honours, the official said, adding the Army stands in solidarity with the bereaved families and remains committed to their dignity and well being.Jorabar Singh (45) had joined Army in 1993 and hailed from village Rait in Kangra area of Himachal Pradesh. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Khalkho (33) hailed from village Dudhakhuti in Ranchi (Jharkhand) had joined Army in 2001. He is survived by his parents, a brother and three sisters.Rather (35) had joined the Army in 2004 and belonged to village Reshigund of Kralpora in Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his wife and a daughter.