Jammu & Kashmir, May 9: In a heart-wrenching loss during mounting cross-border tensions, Indian Army soldier Murali Nayak was killed in heavy Pakistani shelling across the Line of Control (LoC) on Thursday evening.
As per official reports, Pakistani troops breached the ceasefire pact by opening unprovoked mortar and artillery fire in the Rajouri sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The assault was retaliated with full force by Indian troops.
In the heavy exchange of fire, Rifleman Murali Nayak received serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby military hospital immediately. Despite every effort on the part of doctors, he died.
The Indian Army has condemned the act in strong words, terming it a cowardly and calculated provocation in the midst of an already volatile situation. Top army officials have honored the deceased soldier, praising his courage and unflinching devotion to the country.
Murali Nayak, who was from a village in Karnataka, had been working in the forward areas for the last few months. His family has been notified, and arrangements are being made to return his mortal remains to his village for last rites with full military honors.
With rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, this loss is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made on a daily basis by soldiers to defend the borders of the country.
The Indian Army is still on high alert, and more escalation along the LoC cannot be discounted.
