CM Mamata offers support to Nadia soldier's family after Udhampur terror attack claims life

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reached out to the family of Havildar Jhantu Ali Sheikh, a commando of the 6 Para Special Forces from Nadia district, who was martyred in an encounter with terrorists in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 24. Sheikh, along with two of his comrades, was involved in a fierce firefight with terrorists in the Dudu-Basantgarh area. The operation was part of an ongoing counter-terrorism effort in the region. Despite the best medical efforts, Sheikh succumbed to his injuries.

On April 25, Mamata Banerjee called Sheikh’s cousin, Nazim Sheikh, to personally express her condolences. In a conversation that lasted for about 12 minutes, the Chief Minister assured the family of full state support during this difficult time. She emphasized that the family could contact her whenever necessary and promised to provide assistance. Banerjee’s direct communication reflected her commitment to supporting the soldier’s family in their time of grief.

The encounter took place when security forces launched a joint operation based on specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area. The operation was initiated in the Basantgarh region of Udhampur, and the exchange of fire between the security forces and the militants resulted in severe injuries to Sheikh. Despite efforts to save him, he passed away. His two comrades were also critically injured in the encounter and were evacuated for medical treatment.

In the wake of this tragic event, security forces have intensified their operations in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir. On April 23, a major operation, OP Tikka, was conducted in Baramulla. This resulted in the neutralization of two terrorists and the recovery of a large cache of weapons, ammunition, and other war-like materials. The increased activity follows a string of operations aimed at preventing terrorist infiltrations and dismantling terror networks in the region.

Meanwhile, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited Srinagar on April 22 to assess the security situation after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The area has seen an increase in terrorist activities over the past few weeks, prompting the heightened presence of security forces. The government continues to focus on strengthening security in the region, as multiple operations are ongoing in an effort to neutralize remaining threats.