Captain Deepak Singh, a 25-year-old officer of the Indian Army's 48 Rashtriya Rifles, was killed during a terrorist encounter in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, as part of Operation Assar. The operation began following a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the area, leading to a fierce gunfight where Singh sustained fatal injuries while leading a search party. His death is part of a troubling trend, with eleven security personnel, including two Army Captains, having lost their lives in recent weeks amidst rising violence in the region. The White Knight Corps and Indian Army have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Singh's bravery and sacrifice. This incident has sparked renewed discussions about security measures in Jammu and Kashmir, as former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti critiqued the ongoing violence despite government assurances of improved safety. As the country approaches Independence Day, Singh's sacrifice has underscored the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the area.