In a tragic development, Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Indian Army’s Special Forces was killed during a counter-terrorism operation in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, officials confirmed on Monday, January 19, 2026. The operation, codenamed TRASHI-I, is ongoing in the region as security forces continue efforts to neutralize terrorist elements.

According to an official statement from the army, “The GOC, White Knight Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Havildar Gajendra Singh, who made the supreme sacrifice while gallantly executing a Counter Terrorism operation in the Singpura area during the ongoing Operation TRASHI-I on the night of January 19, 2026.”

Details of the Encounter

The encounter began on Sunday in the Singhpora area of Kishtwar, northeast of Chatroo, when intelligence inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the region. Security forces—including the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF personnel—launched a coordinated operation to neutralize the threat.

During the exchange of fire, Havildar Gajendra Singh was fatally injured, while at least eight other army personnel sustained injuries in the ongoing operation. The injured soldiers have been evacuated and are receiving medical care at nearby military facilities.

Army officials stated that Operation TRASHI-I continues in the Son Nar area, northeast of Chhatroo, with heightened security measures in place. The region has been cordoned off, and local authorities, along with security forces, are working to ensure civilian safety while pursuing the remaining terrorists.

Security Response

The army, along with Jammu and Kashmir Police and the CRPF, has increased its presence in Kishtwar district. Additional checkpoints and patrolling have been established to prevent any movement of militants and to secure the local population. The authorities have urged residents to remain indoors and avoid venturing near the operation zones until the situation is brought under control.

The White Knight Corps, responsible for operations in this sensitive region, expressed condolences to the family of Havildar Gajendra Singh and honored his bravery. Statements from the corps emphasized the soldier’s dedication and courage, highlighting his “supreme sacrifice” in the fight against terrorism.

Background

Kishtwar district has witnessed multiple counter-terrorism operations over the years due to the presence of local and foreign terrorist elements in the region. Security forces routinely conduct intelligence-based operations to prevent attacks and maintain law and order.

Operations like TRASHI-I are part of ongoing efforts to eliminate terror threats in remote and hilly terrains, often requiring high-risk maneuvers and coordination among army, police, and paramilitary forces. Such operations, while critical to national security, often come at a heavy cost, as highlighted by the death of Havildar Gajendra Singh.

Tribute and Recognition

Havildar Gajendra Singh’s sacrifice has been widely mourned by his colleagues and superiors. The army has paid tribute to his bravery and reaffirmed its commitment to continue anti-terror operations in Kishtwar and across Jammu and Kashmir.

Officials noted that Singh’s actions during the operation exemplified the highest standards of courage, discipline, and dedication, and his sacrifice will remain an inspiration to his comrades in the fight against terrorism.

Continuing Operations

The operation is ongoing, and security forces remain deployed in the general area of Son Nar to neutralize any remaining terrorist presence. Local authorities have been coordinating with the army and paramilitary forces to ensure the safety of civilians while maintaining pressure on militant elements.

The incident underscores the continuing challenges faced by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir and the risks undertaken by personnel in high-stakes anti-terror operations. Havildar Gajendra Singh’s sacrifice is a stark reminder of the human cost in the defense of national security and the ongoing fight against terrorism in sensitive regions of the country.

Authorities have assured that updates regarding the operation and the status of the injured personnel will be provided as the situation evolves, and they reaffirmed their commitment to securing the area and eliminating the terrorist threat.

---