Jammu, May 3
An Army jawan was killed in an encounter with militants in the Palmar area of Kishtwar district here last night. The group of militants that killed the Army jawan reportedly included militants who carry a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh each on their heads in connection with the Delhi High Court blast of September 7, 2011.

“We all know that only one group of militants is active in Kishtwar district, which is wanted in the Delhi High Court blast case by the National Investigation Agency (NIA),” Kishtwar SSP Bhim Sen Tuti told The Tribune on the phone.

Asked about the exact figures and identity of militants involved in the yesterday’s encounter, the officer said, “There was one group, probably of two to three militants. Since the encounter took place around 11 pm last night, it was not possible to ascertain their exact number, leave aside their identities.”

The militants were able to make good their escape taking advantage of darkness, Tuti said. “The operation has been called off,” he added.

The slain jawan of the Territorial Army has been identified as Noor Hussain.