Two Punjab Cops Martyred in Gurdaspur Encounter; CM Mann Aids

February 23, 2026

Two Punjab Police personnel were martyred during a fierce encounter with criminals at Doranglan village in Gurdaspur district, triggering an outpouring of grief across the state. The fallen officers have been identified as ASI Gurnam Singh and PHG Ashok Kumar, both of whom laid down their lives while performing duty.

ਸ਼ਹੀਦ ਏ.ਐੱਸ.ਆਈ. ਗੁਰਨਾਮ ਸਿੰਘ ਅਤੇ ਪੀ.ਐੱਚ.ਜੀ. ਅਸ਼ੋਕ ਕੁਮਾਰ ਦੀ ਬਹਾਦਰੀ ਅਤੇ ਸਰਵੋਚ ਕੁਰਬਾਨੀ ਨੂੰ ਸਲਾਮ, ਜਿਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਨੇ ਡਿਊਟੀ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਆਪਣੀਆਂ ਜਾਨਾਂ ਵਾਰ ਦਿੱਤੀਆਂ। ਪੰਜਾਬ ਸਰਕਾਰ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੇ ਪਰਿਵਾਰਾਂ ਨੂੰ 1-1 ਕਰੋੜ ਰੁਪਏ ਦੀ ਐਕਸਗ੍ਰੇਸ਼ੀਆ ਰਾਸ਼ੀ ਪ੍ਰਦਾਨ ਕਰੇਗੀ, ਜਦੋਂ ਕਿ ਐੱਚ.ਡੀ.ਐੱਫ.ਸੀ. ਬੈਂਕ ਵੱਲੋਂ 1-1 ਕਰੋੜ ਰੁਪਏ ਦੀ… pic.twitter.com/2iAdI6c0Qp

— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) February 23, 2026

The incident occurred during a police operation in the border district, where teams were tracking suspects believed to be involved in criminal activities. During the encounter, the situation escalated, leading to heavy firing in which the two policemen sustained fatal injuries.

CM Bhagwant Mann Announces Ex-Gratia for Families

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a ₹1 crore ex-gratia compensation for the family of each martyred police personnel. Expressing deep sorrow over the loss, the Chief Minister said the Punjab government stands firmly with the families of the brave officers who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

In addition to the state government’s assistance, HDFC Bank will provide an additional ₹1 crore insurance cover to the family of each martyr, offering further financial support during this difficult time.

Tribute to Supreme Sacrifice and Bravery

Paying tribute to ASI Gurnam Singh and PHG Ashok Kumar, the Chief Minister described their sacrifice as a symbol of unmatched courage, commitment and dedication to public service. He said the bravery shown by the officers during the encounter reflects the spirit of the Punjab Police, which has always stood at the forefront in protecting the lives and security of citizens.

“Their sacrifice will always be remembered. They performed their duty with honour and fearlessness, even in the face of grave danger,” the Chief Minister said.

State Government Stands with Martyrs’ Families

The Punjab government reiterated that it would extend all possible support to the bereaved families, including assistance related to employment, education and welfare schemes, as per government policy. Senior police officials have also been directed to ensure that the families receive immediate help and long-term support.

Top police officers and district administration officials visited the families to convey condolences and assure them of the government’s backing.

Encounter Sparks Security Review in Border Areas

The encounter at Doranglan has once again highlighted the challenges faced by police personnel while operating in sensitive border districts. Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the incident and intensified security measures in the region to prevent further threats.

Additional police forces have been deployed, and search operations are underway to track down remaining suspects linked to the encounter.

A Sacrifice That Inspires the Force

The martyrdom of ASI Gurnam Singh and PHG Ashok Kumar has left the state in mourning. Their courage continues to inspire fellow officers and citizens alike, reinforcing the values of duty, honour and sacrifice.

As Punjab salutes its fallen heroes, the government and people have united in grief and respect, vowing never to forget the bravery of those who protect the state at the cost of their own lives.