The slain DySP Humayun Bhat, who was killed in an encounter with terrorists in south Kashmir in 2023, was posthumously awarded the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry for his courageous actions during a 2021 gunfight.
The commendation adds to the accolades of the officer, who was earlier honoured with the Kirti Chakra, the nation’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, announced on the eve of last year’s Independence Day.
Aged just 32, Bhat was one of four security officials killed in an encounter with terrorists on September 13, 2023. He is survived by his wife Fatimah and their infant son Ashar.
Alongside Bhat, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Sepoy Pardeep Singh were also killed in the mountainous region of Kokernag, south Kashmir.
Bhat received the gallantry medal for displaying “rare courage” during an encounter on June 29, 2021. His notable actions included playing a key role in killed a top local commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), identified as Abrar, as well as a Pakistani terrorist on the outskirts of Srinagar.
This recognition for Bhat serves as a testament to his bravery and dedication in the line of duty, honouring his legacy and sacrifice in the fight against terrorism in the region.