The Indian Amry has lost four of its personnel and the one officer of J&K police. During the gun battle, security forces managed to killed two terrorists, one of whom has been identified as Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Haider.
Colonel Sharma had been part of several successful counter-terrorism operations during his career and was the only commanding officer to have been decorated twice with gallantry medals for exemplary bravey and valor. He had received gallantry as a CO when he had saved the lives of his men by subduing a militant running towards them with a concealed grenade.
Colonel Sharma belonged to the Guards Regiment and had served Kashmir valley for a long time. It has also been said that Colonel's name was strong enough to tremble terrorists with fear.
After martyrdom, Colonel Ashutosh Sharma becomes the first Commanding Officer or a Colonel-rank Army person who had lost his life in an encounter with the terrorists in the last five years. The Commanding Office, originally, belongs to Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh. He is survived by his wife and a 12-year-old daughter.
Interestingly, another fact has come to light that it was his aim to gun down Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Haider and so he did.
After his death, Colonel's wife--Pallavi Ashutosh--appeared in front of the media and said "I won't breave upon his death. It was his choice, his decision and we must respect that."
"He was passionate about his duty, always prioritized his unit and love for his uniform. His loss is irreparable and unbearable, but I am proud of my husband for what he did for his men and the safety of civilians," added Pallavi.
Furthermore, Colonel's brother Piyush Sharma said that his brother has sacrificed his life for a great cause. My son is very inspired from Ashutosh & he used to learn from him whenever they meet.
Meanwhile, others who lost their lives in the Handwara operation include Major Anuj Sood, Naik Rajesh and Lance Naik Dinesh.