The 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) on Saturday marked the fourth anniversary of Operation Gadol, a significant counter-terrorism operation that took place in the Gadol forests of Kokernag, located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The commemoration included a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and a Chinar plantation drive, both held at the Battalion Headquarters of 19 RR in Larkipora.
According to an official release, the event was meticulously organized to pay tribute to four brave personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice during the operation in September 2023. These fallen heroes were identified as Colonel Manpreet Singh, who was awarded the Kirti Chakra posthumously and the Sena Medal; Major Aashish Dhonchak, also honored with the Shaurya Chakra posthumously and the Sena Medal; Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Humayun Muzzammil Bhat, who received the Kirti Chakra posthumously; and Sepoy Pardeep Singh, who was awarded the Shaurya Chakra posthumously. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the operation itself was a critical undertaking in the region’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.
The commemorative ceremony saw the presence of distinguished officials, including the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Anantnag, Amod Ashok Nagpure, and the Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Colonel Rohit Rattan. Officers and personnel from both the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police were in attendance, underscoring the unified spirit of the security forces. Floral tributes were laid with deep respect, acknowledging the immense courage, exemplary leadership, and profound sacrifice demonstrated by the martyrs in the line of duty. The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of these individuals and reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the security forces to honor their sacrifice and continue their mission.
As a living tribute to the four fallen heroes, four Chinar saplings were planted near the main gate of the Battalion Headquarters, an area now also known as Colonel Manpreet Singh Dwar. The planting of these trees symbolizes strength, resilience, longevity, and a lasting connection with future generations, ensuring that their memory will continue to grow and thrive. The Chinar tree, deeply interwoven with the rich heritage and cultural fabric of Jammu and Kashmir, was deliberately chosen for this commemoration to reflect the enduring memory of the personnel who lost their lives. The presence of senior officers from both the Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police at the event highlighted the robust coordination and shared dedication of these forces in remembering those who have made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. The operation, while resulting in tragic loss, is seen as a testament to the resolve of security forces in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Operation Gadol was a complex and challenging counter-terrorism mission that required significant tactical planning and execution. The terrain in the Gadol forests is known for its ruggedness, presenting considerable difficulties for security forces engaged in operations. The success of such operations, despite the inherent risks, is crucial for dismantling terrorist networks and ensuring the safety of civilians. The sacrifices made by Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Aashish Dhonchak, DSP Humayun Muzzammil Bhat, and Sepoy Pardeep Singh are deeply etched in the annals of the region’s security history. Their actions, characterized by bravery and selflessness, continue to inspire those who serve. The commemoration serves not only as a moment of remembrance but also as a reaffirmation of the ongoing commitment to counter all forms of extremism and ensure the security and well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The joint participation of the Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police in such events is a strong indicator of the synergistic approach adopted by the security apparatus in the Union Territory. This collaboration is vital for intelligence sharing, joint operations, and maintaining a cohesive front against security challenges. The sacrifices made during Operation Gadol underscore the persistent threats faced by security personnel in the region and the bravery with which they confront them. The planting of Chinar saplings, a symbol of life and continuity, offers a hopeful perspective amidst the solemn remembrance of loss. It signifies a commitment to nurturing peace and prosperity for the generations to come, building upon the sacrifices of the past. The event concluded with a renewed pledge to uphold the values of courage, integrity, and service that the fallen heroes embodied.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.