Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, Army Commander Western Command, visited the Bani–Macchedi Sector in Kathua district to review the security situation and commend troops for a successful counter-terror operation.
During the visit, Lt Gen Katiyar congratulated Sepoy XXX of the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment for eliminating a dreaded Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist in a close-quarter encounter, displaying exceptional courage while risking his own life. The Army Commander also praised the entire team for the relentless pursuit of the terrorist over several days and the surgical execution of the operation.
The terrorist, identified as Usman, was neutralised by the Indian Army at Parhetar in Kathua district on January 23, 2026, at around 5 pm, following sustained intelligence-led operations.
During the visit, the Army Commander was briefed by the Brigade Commander on plans for continued domination of the area, including intensified surveillance, proactive operations and measures to prevent any further terrorist movement.
Lt Gen Katiyar emphasised the importance of high vigilance, aggressive counter-terror posture and seamless coordination, reaffirming the Western Command’s resolve to ensure peace and security in the region through decisive and professional military action.
