A junior commissioned officer of the Indian Army lost his life after slipping into a deep gorge during a search operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, officials said on Saturday.
The incident took place on Friday evening in the Seri Mastan area of Behramgalla, a region known for its tough terrain and narrow slopes. The subedar was leading a team during an ongoing search assignment when he reportedly lost balance while negotiating a steep patch of the track. Within seconds, he slipped and fell into a gorge several feet deep.
Troops accompanying him immediately alerted nearby units, and a rescue operation was launched. Despite the quick response, officials said the officer was found dead on the spot.
The Army later completed all legal and medical documentation before sending the body to his hometown for last rites. His name is being withheld until his family is officially informed.
Security forces continue to maintain a high operational presence in the Pir Panjal range, where terrain challenges remain constant alongside ongoing monitoring activities.
The Indian Army officers in Poonch have expressed condolences, describing the fallen JCO as a committed professional who was performing his duty in one of the most demanding operational environments in the region.