Srinagar, Nov 17 (KNS): Army Tuesday said that Colonel Santosh Mahadik was killed while leading his troops in a fierce encounter with a group of three militants in Manigah forests in Kupwara district.
PRO Defence Srinagar, Col NN Joshi in a statement said Colonel Mahadik, the Commanding Officer of 41 Rashtriya Rifles made the supreme sacrifice in the highest traditions of the Indian Army.
“The Colonel was a true soldier and had conducted many successful counter terrorist operations. Originally from the Special Forces, the officer was earlier awarded Sena Medal for exhibiting gallantry and leadership in counter terrorist operations.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel”
He said Lt Gen DS Hooda, Army Commander, Northern Command, has expressed deep condolences on the loss of this brave Commanding Officer. Quoting the General, the spokesman said, “We owe a deep debt of gratitude to officers like Santosh who lead from the front and are willing to pay the ultimate price in the fight against terrorism.”
He said Colonel Mahadik leaves behind his wife and two children, aged eleven and five years. The Army is committed to providing all support to the family in this hour of grief, he said. (KNS)