Two Soldiers, Including Captain, Killed in IED Blast Near LoC in Jammu
Jammu, February 11, 2025 – Two Indian Army soldiers, including a Captain, lost their lives in an Improvised Explosive Device blast near the Line of Control in Jammu’s Akhnoor sector on Tuesday. Another soldier was injured in the explosion, which occurred during a routine fence patrol in the Laleali area.
Security officials suspect that Pakistan-backed militants were responsible for the attack. The Nagrota-based White Knight Corps confirmed the incident and stated that a search operation was launched to secure the area and track potential infiltrators.
“A suspected IED blast occurred in Laleali, Akhnoor sector, during a fence patrol, resulting in two fatalities. Our troops are dominating the area, and search operations are underway. White Knight Corps salutes and pays tribute to the supreme sacrifice of two gallant soldiers,” the unit posted on X.
The deceased soldiers were identified as Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi and Naik Mukesh. The injured soldier is receiving medical treatment and is reportedly in stable condition.
Rising Tensions Along the LoC
This attack follows a series of recent cross-border threats along the LoC. A day earlier, Lt. Gen. Navin Sachdeva, General Officer Commanding of White Knight Corps, conducted a security review in Rajouri amid increasing militant activity and infiltration attempts.
According to intelligence reports, nearly 100 militants are positioned at launch pads across the LoC, awaiting an opportunity to enter Indian territory. The use of IEDs has become a frequent tactic of Pakistan-based terror groups targeting Indian security forces patrolling border areas.
Three days prior, an Army patrol in Rajouri was fired upon by suspected militants hiding in forests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Indian troops responded with gunfire. On Monday, security forces recovered a cache of arms and ammunition in Kupwara’s Karnah sector, including an AK-47 rifle, a Saiga MK rifle, and 12 rounds of ammunition. Authorities believe these weapons were meant for infiltrators attempting to enter India.
Tributes and Security Response
Following the tragic loss, senior Army officials and government leaders expressed their condolences. Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, saying:
“I salute the supreme sacrifice of our Army bravehearts who laid down their lives in the line of duty. Their valor and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The entire nation stands firmly with the families of the martyrs in this hour of grief.”
Lt. Gen. M.V. Suchindra Kumar, General Officer Commanding Northern Command, also paid homage, calling their sacrifice a testament to their unwavering commitment to national security.
In response, the Army has increased search and surveillance operations along the LoC, deploying drones, snipers, and counter-infiltration measures to prevent further attacks.
A Renewed Challenge for Security Forces
The attack highlights the persistent threat of cross-border militancy in Jammu & Kashmir. The use of IEDs along patrol routes presents a serious challenge for security forces, as these devices are difficult to detect and can cause significant casualties.
With intelligence agencies warning of fresh infiltration attempts, military activity along the LoC is expected to intensify. The Indian Army is likely to focus on preemptive strikes, enhanced border surveillance, and intelligence-based operations to counter these threats.
The sacrifices of Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi and Naik Mukesh serve as a solemn reminder of the dangers faced by Indian soldiers in defending the nation’s borders. Their bravery strengthens India’s resolve in its fight against terrorism and cross-border aggression.
As security forces continue their vigilance along the LoC, the battle against state-sponsored terror remains an ongoing challenge.
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