Hundreds Pay Final Respects to Officer Killed in Pakistani Shelling
Jammu, May 11 – Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer Raj Kumar Thapa, who lost his life in a mortar shell attack by Pakistani forces, was cremated with full state honours in Jammu on Sunday. His death has drawn widespread mourning, with political leaders and citizens joining in to pay tribute to the dedicated officer.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and J&K Assembly Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma were among the many who gathered at the cremation ground to bid farewell to the Additional District Development Commissioner of Rajouri.
Mortar Shell Hits Officer’s Residence
Thapa tragically died early Saturday morning when a mortar shell landed in the residential compound of his home in Rajouri town amid ongoing cross-border hostilities. His mortal remains were transported to his Roop Nagar residence on the outskirts of Jammu in a police vehicle, followed by a solemn cremation ceremony nearby.
Leaders Mourn Loss of a Dedicated Public Servant
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the grieving family and offered heartfelt condolences. He lauded Dr Thapa’s commitment to public service and his role in advancing development in the Union Territory.
Deputy CM Choudhary recalled his recent interactions with the officer during a visit to the Rajouri-Poonch districts amid Pakistani shelling. He praised Thapa’s unwavering professionalism and people-centric approach.
Tribute to Sacrifice and Service
Opposition leader Sunil Sharma echoed these sentiments, describing Thapa as a model public servant whose legacy of professionalism and service will be remembered. He also commended the Indian armed forces for their recent precision strikes across the border, highlighting the resolve of the BJP-led central government.
The solemn ceremony marked a moment of unity and remembrance, as hundreds gathered to honour a man who served the people of Jammu and Kashmir with commitment and compassion.
