Defence Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday termed the killing of a Kashmiri Army officer by militants in Shopian district as a "dastardly act of cowardice" and said "his sacrifice" reiterates the nation's commitment to eliminate terrorism.

"Abduction and murder of Lieutenant Ummer Fayaz by terrorists in Shopian is a dastardly act of cowardice. This young officer from Jammu and Kashmir was a role model," Jaitley said in a tweet.

"Lt Ummer Fayaz of 2RAJRIF (Rajputana Rifles) was an exceptional sportsman, his sacrifice reiterates the nation's commitment to eliminate terrorism from the Valley," he said.

 
"We share the grief of the family of Lt Ummer Fayaz and stand in solidarity. Lt Ummer Fayaz will continue to inspire youth from the Valley," the Minister added.

The bullet-riddled body of 22-year-old Fayaz was found early on Wednesday morning in Shopian district.

Fayaz was kidnapped by militants late on Tuesday evening from Kulgam town where he had gone to attend a marriage ceremony, the police said.