In a tragic incident on Monday, Havaldar V Subbaiah Varikunta of the 25 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) lost his life in a landmine explosion during an area domination patrol in the Thanedar Tekri region of Poonch district. The 38-year-old soldier, hailing from Ravipadu village in the Kambam mandal of Andhra Pradesh, dedicated nearly two decades of service to the Indian Army.
The incident transpired while Subbaiah and his patrol team were conducting a search operation in the area. They accidentally triggered a landmine, resulting in a deadly explosion that claimed Subbaiah’s life as he led his team. Despite immediate efforts to evacuate him to a nearby hospital, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
The devastating news has cast a shadow over Subbaiah’s hometown, where residents are in mourning for the fallen soldier. He leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife, son, and daughter, who are enduring this profound loss.
In a heartfelt tribute on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the White Knight Corps honored Havaldar Subbaiah, stating, “GOC Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to the braveheart Havaldar V Subbaiah Varikunta of 25 RR, who made the supreme sacrifice during an area domination patrol in the general area of Thanedar Tekri in Poonch following a mine blast. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We stand steadfastly with them in this hour of grief.”
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, also expressed his condolences, stating, “I salute the supreme sacrifice of our Army braveheart Havaldar V Subbaiah Varikunta. His valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The entire nation stands firmly with the family of the martyr in this hour of grief.” The outpouring of respect and sorrow reflects the high regard in which the soldier was held for his dedication and service to the nation.
