In a tragic incident reported from Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, an army soldier lost his life due to a mine blast while conducting a patrol along the Line of Control (LoC). The unfortunate event took place in the Thanedar Tekri region on Monday, as the soldier, who was part of an area domination patrol, inadvertently stepped on a landmine, resulting in the explosion.
The deceased soldier has been identified as Havildar V Subbaiah Varikunta, a member of the prestigious 25 Rashtriya Rifles. Following the news of the incident, Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the White Knight Corps, expressed his condolences. He paid tribute to Havildar Varikunta, extending heartfelt sympathies not only from himself but from all ranks of the unit, to the soldier’s bereaved family. “Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We stand steadfastly with them in this hour of grief,” the GoC stated, highlighting the sense of loss felt across the ranks.
This incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by military personnel stationed in high-conflict regions, where the presence of landmines poses a constant threat to their safety. The terrain along the LoC has witnessed numerous engagements and skirmishes, making the safety of troops a paramount concern. The armed forces continue to carry out essential patrol operations despite such challenges, a testament to their dedication and commitment to national security.
