Ludhiana/Kulgam: The mortal remains of Lance Naik Pritpal Singh, who was killed in action during Operation Akhal in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district, reached his native village of Manupur in Khanna on Sunday. The 28-year-old soldier will be laid to rest with full military honours, as the village mourns the loss of one of its bravest sons.
Pritpal Singh, along with Sepoy Harminder Singh, 26, from Badinpur in Fatehgarh Sahib, was martyred during the Kulgam encounter with terrorists in the dense forests of Akhal. Both soldiers were part of a joint operation involving the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group, and the CRPF, which has been underway since August 1.
The news has cast a pall of grief over both villages, especially as it came just ahead of Raksha Bandhan. Pritpal Singh had been married only four months ago, while Harminder Singh’s family was awaiting his return to celebrate the festival.
A Gruelling Operation in Harsh Terrain
Operation Akhal has been described by officials as one of the most challenging counter-terror missions in recent months. Security forces have been combing through thick forests, natural caves, and mountainous terrain, with para commandos, drones, and helicopters aiding the search. The operation aims to flush out multiple terrorists believed to be hiding in the area.
So far, two terrorists have been killed, including Haris Nazir Dar of Pulwama, a C-category militant linked to recent attacks in the region. Nine soldiers have been injured during the operation, with two succumbing to their injuries.
Tributes and Support
Senior military leaders, including Army Northern Commander Lt. Gen. Prateek Sharma, are personally overseeing the operation. In a tribute posted on X, the Army’s Chinar Corps honoured the “supreme sacrifice” of Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, stating their bravery will remain a source of inspiration.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that the state government will provide ₹1 crore each to the families of the martyrs, expressing deep condolences and saluting their courage.
The funeral of Lance Naik Pritpal Singh will take place later today, with Army officers, state officials, and hundreds of villagers expected to gather to pay their final respects.
