Army Colonel Martyred Leading Operation Against Terrorists Colonel Santosh Mahadik attained martyrdom while leading his troops in an fierce encounter with a group of three terrorists in Manigah Forest Area of Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir today. 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. Lt Gen DS Hooda, Army Commander, Northern Command has expressed deep condolences on the loss of this brave Commanding Officer. He 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. 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. Col NN Joshi PRO (Def) Srinagar
