Slain J&K Officer Humayun Bhat Honored with Gallantry Medal for Exceptional Valor in 2021 Encounter

SRINAGAR, Jan 25: Humayun Bhat, the late deputy superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police, was honored posthumously with the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry for his valiant actions during a 2021 gunfight, following his ultimate sacrifice in an encounter with terrorists in South Kashmir in 2023.
This latest recognition complements the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, which Bhat received on the eve of last year’s Independence Day.
At the young age of 32, Bhat was among four security personnel who tragically lost their lives in a fierce battle with militants on September 13, 2023. He is survived by his wife, Fatimah, and their young son, Ashar.
Alongside Bhat, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Sepoy Pardeep Singh also made the ultimate sacrifice during the intense clash in the Kokernag region of South Kashmir.
Describing her husband, Fatimah said, “Himu will inspire generations to come. He embodied intelligence, courage, wisdom, and a visionary outlook driven by a deep commitment to liberation and progress.” She shared her thoughts upon learning of her husband’s gallantry award.
Bhat earned this commendation for showcasing “rare courage” during an encounter on June 29, 2021. His significant contributions included playing a pivotal role in neutralizing Abrar, a high-ranking local commander of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as well as a Pakistani terrorist on the outskirts of Srinagar.
Following credible intelligence regarding a potential terror attack on the national highway, the Jammu and Kashmir Police established joint checkpoints with the Central Reserve Police Force.
During a routine check at the Parimpora checkpoint, officers detained individuals from a suspicious vehicle. When a passenger in the back seat tried to reach for a grenade, police responded promptly, taking him into custody. This individual was confirmed to be Abrar, a notorious LeT commander, who subsequently led officers to his hideout. There, an unidentified Pakistani terrorist opened fire, leading to a fierce exchange resulting in the death of both terrorists.
The operation also led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, and Abrar had been linked to several attacks on security personnel and civilians.
The acknowledgment of Bhat’s bravery serves as a lasting tribute to his commitment and sacrifice in the ongoing battle against terrorism in the region.