Ashhar Alam/New Delhi

Humayun Muzammil Bhat is yet another son of Kashmir, who laid down his life fighting terrorists and on whom a grateful nation conferred with Kirti Chakra, the second highest peacetime gallantry award for his extraordinary courage in a difficult situation, Bhat, posted a Deputy Suprintendent of Police (DySP) in Anantnag in 1991, served as a frontline officer in counter-terrorism operations until his martyrdom till September 13, 2023, during a fierce encounter in Anantnag district.

At the age of 32, Bhat sacrificed his life while combating Lashkar-e-Taiba militants, leaving behind a legacy of valor that continues to inspire law enforcement personnel and the nation. His story reflects the profound commitment of second-generation officers in maintaining peace amid challenging circumstances in Kashmir.

Joining the Jammu and Kashmir Police in 2018, Bhat quickly rose through the ranks due to his leadership qualities and tactical acumen. Over his five-year tenure, he earned a reputation for leading from the front, much like his father, who was renowned for confronting militancy while upholding law and order. Colleagues described him as humble, intelligent, and visionary, with a passion for innovation in policing methods. His brief stint in the social welfare department prior to joining the force highlighted his broader commitment to public welfare, but it was in uniform that he found his true calling.

FLASH: @JmuKmrPolice and Indian Army mourn the loss of brave officers in the Gadool encounter.

DGP Dilbag Singh extended his condolences for the tragic demise of Col. Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonack, and DySP Humayun Muzamil Bhat.

#JammuAndKashmir #SaluteToHeroes pic.twitter.com/8wAqvhP18r

— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) September 14, 2023

On September 13, 2023, Bhat participated in a joint anti-terror mission in the dense forests of Gadool village, Kokernag, Anantnag district. Targeting top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Uzair Khan and his associates, the operation turned intense as militants ambushed the forces.

Bhat sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the abdomen but managed a composed 13-second call to his father: "Papa, I am hit. I have been hit in the abdomen. Please don’t panic." His final message to his wife was equally poignant: "I am so sorry. Take care of Ashar."

Despite efforts to evacuate him, Bhat succumbed to his injuries at Srinagar's 92 Base Hospital. He was one of four personnel martyred, alongside Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Sepoy Pardeep Singh. His funeral in Budgam drew hundreds, including senior officials, reflecting the profound respect for his sacrifice

Bhat hailed from a distinguished law enforcement lineage. His father, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, a retired Inspector General of Police, served for 34 years and retired in June 2023, just months before his son's death.

This familial legacy instilled in Humayun a strong sense of duty and integrity. His mother, Haleema Bhat, provided steadfast support, while his brother, Dr. Hanaan Bhat, a veterinarian, and his sister formed a close-knit family unit. In 2022, Bhat married Fatimah Ali, an employee at Kashmir University, and the couple welcomed their son, Ashar, in August 2023—mere weeks before the tragic encounter. Despite the personal milestones, Bhat remained focused on his professional responsibilities.

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Posthumously, Bhat received India's second-highest peacetime gallantry award, the Kirti Chakra, announced on Independence Day 2024, for his valor in the Anantnag encounter. He was also honored with the President's Police Medal for Gallantry on Republic Day 2025 for the 2021 Srinagar operation. Tributes continue to pour in, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah meeting his family in April 2025 to offer condolences.

His wife, Fatimah, has spoken of raising their son with the same integrity, embracing pride amid sorrow. On his birth and martyrdom anniversaries, officials and the public commemorate his contributions, ensuring his story motivates future generations in the fight against terrorism.