Committed to eliminating every terrorist, says DIG

Jammu-Kathua Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Shiv Kumar Sharma on Monday reiterated the police force’s commitment to eliminate every terrorist hiding in the region’s hills, asserting that the ongoing operation in Kathua district will continue until the last terrorist is neutralised.

“The operation is underway and as long as a single terrorist remains, the Jammu and Kashmir Police will continue in its mission. Our force is dedicated to eradicating terrorism to ensure Jammu and Kashmir remains safe,” Sharma told reporters in Reasi.

He urged citizens along the border to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “With an international border to guard, we rely on information from the public and urge citizens to report any suspicious movement,” he said.

The DIG highlighted the coordinated efforts of security forces, saying, “Our operations, conducted in coordination with the Army, CRPF and other forces, are underway. We are working as a team, and the search operations will continue.”

Praising the bravery of the police personnel, he remarked, “The nation salutes the courage of our officers who face bullets without flinching and embrace martyrdom, yet never waver in their commitment to restoring peace and normalcy.”

Sharma visited the family of policeman Tariq Ahmad, who, along with three colleagues, lost his life fighting terrorists in Kathua on Thursday. Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families, he said, “We met with the families of the martyrs to offer our condolences and assured them that the entire nation stands with them. Their courage and sacrifice have made every citizen and police officer of Jammu and Kashmir proud.”

Acknowledging the heroism of officers Balvinder, Jasveer, and Jaswant, he stated, “Had they not led the team in engaging the terrorists, the attackers could have fled elsewhere, causing greater destruction.”

He reaffirmed the high morale of the security forces, stating, “Like their families, we too feel the loss of our brave jawans. We provide excellent training, and our personnel fight with determination on the ground. Our morale is high, and we are prepared to face every challenge."

Paying tribute to the mother of a fallen officer, he said, "We honour the mother who gave birth to such a brave son. Even under a hail of bullets, he stood his ground and embraced martyrdom."

Sharma concluded by emphasising that the forces will never back down in their fight against terrorism.