Farewell to a Hero: Tributes Paid to Fallen Soldier Hilal Ahmad Bhat

A wreath-laying ceremony honored the bravery of Territorial Army jawan Hilal Ahmad Bhat, killed in Anantnag. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid homage, emphasizing the nation's solidarity with Bhat's family. Bhat was abducted by terrorists and found with bullet wounds, sparking swift search operations by security forces.

A solemn wreath-laying ceremony was conducted on Wednesday to honor the bravery and ultimate sacrifice of Territorial Army jawan Hilal Ahmad Bhat in Nowgam, Anantnag. Bhat, abducted by terrorists, was brought back to his native village for final respects.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid his respects to Rfn Bhat, acknowledging his selfless dedication and sacrifice in service to the nation. Governor Sinha stated, 'I salute the supreme sacrifice of our Army braveheart, Rfn Hilal Ahmad Bhat. His valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The entire nation stands firmly with the family of the martyr in this hour of grief.'

Prior to the ceremony, security forces uncovered Bhat's body, marked by bullet wounds, in the forests of Anantnag, where he disappeared after being abducted. An extensive search operation, launched by the Indian Army, Jammu Kashmir Police, and other agencies, had been ongoing in the Kazwan Forest, Kokernag, since October 8.

Bhat's disappearance prompted an immediate response, with reports indicating two TA soldiers were abducted, though one managed to escape. Operations to locate the missing jawan continued with urgency.

(With inputs from agencies.)