Eight including four soldiers, killed in two gunbattles

A major and a marine commando were among four security personnel killed in an encounter in Baramulla on Tuesday, while seven other ranks, including two majors, were injured in another encounter in Bandipora on Wednesday. Four militants have so far been killed in the gunbattles.

Major Suresh Suri, 30, and Naik Khushal Singh, both from 13-Rashtirya Riffles, died. Top Hizbul and Lashkar commanders were also killed in the Banyari encounter which started on Tuesday afternoon.

Police said four other ranks, including Major Gautam Raj Reshi and Major Kamlesh Kumar, Non-Commissioned Officer Mahipal Singh and Sepoy Naveen were also injured.

The encounter began at 3 pm on Tuesday when police from Sumbal in Bandipora and 13-Rashtirya Riffles launched a joint operation in Baniyari after receiving a tip-off about militants hiding there. The militants opened fire as soon as they spotted the contingent marching towards them. “This is a very difficult operation. A major and a jawan have made supreme sacrifices.”