The Army on Wednesday paid befitting tribute to sepoy Ajay Kumar who was killed in a fierce encounter with Jaish-e-Muhammad terrorists in Tral sub-district of south Kashmir on April 24.

In a solemn ceremony at XV corps headquarters here, corps commander Lt Gen AK Bhatt, and all ranks, paid homage to Kumar. A defence spokesman said that in a show of solidarity, representatives from other security agencies also joined in paying their last respects to the slain soldier.

Sepoy Ajay Kumar, 25, sustained bullet injury during the fierce operation in Laam forest. He was provided immediate first aid and evacuated to 92 Base Hospital but he succumbed to his injuries. Kumar had joined the Army in 2013 and belonged to Panjola village of Pachhad tehsil in Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh. He is survived by his parents and a brother. His mortal remains were later flown for last rites to his native place.

Meanwhile, complete shutdown was observed in Tral and Awantipora areas against the killing of four militants including two local cadre and as may Pakistani nationals. Hundreds of people took part in the funeral of slain militants.

Four militants, a soldier and a policeman belonging to counterinsurgency wing of police were killed in fierce encounter in Laam-Gotingoo forests on Tuesday. The encounter is seen as a major jolt to Jaish outfit in the area.

Courtesy: The pioneer, Thursday, 26 April 2018 | PNS | New Delhi