Kargil War Hero Col Sonam Wangchuk Passes Away | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (retd), a decorated Indian Army officer and recipient of the Maha Vir Chakra for his gallantry during the 1999 Kargil War, passed away on Friday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the country’s political and military leadership.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the condolences, describing him as a “proud son of Ladakh” whose courage and leadership during Operation Vijay inspired soldiers under the most demanding high-altitude conditions. In a message posted on X, Singh said the officer was renowned for his gallantry, resolute leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty, adding that his life remained a testament to courage, sacrifice, and national integration.

“A proud son of Ladakh, he exemplified the spirit of the region — resilient, steadfast and deeply rooted in service to the nation,” Singh said, noting that Wangchuk’s actions in combat stood as a symbol of India’s unity in diversity. He expressed deep sadness at the passing of the Kargil war hero, stating that his legacy would continue to inspire generations.

The Indian Army also paid homage, offering its deepest condolences and standing in solidarity with the bereaved family. In its tribute, the Army remembered him as a brave soldier, a committed leader, and a son of Ladakh whose life “embodied courage, service and unity.” The force shared excerpts from his gallantry citation, recalling his decisive role in one of the most challenging phases of the Kargil conflict.

According to the citation, then Major Sonam Wangchuk was leading a column of the Ladakh Scouts’ Indus Wing on May 30, 1999, in the Batalik sector, tasked with securing a ridgeline along the Line of Control at an altitude of approximately 5,500 metres. The mission was critical to prevent enemy occupation and potential infiltration in a glaciated, high-risk zone.

As the column advanced, it came under ambush from enemy forces positioned at a tactical vantage point. Despite sustaining casualties, including the loss of a non-commissioned officer, Major Wangchuk maintained cohesion within his unit. Demonstrating exceptional battlefield presence, he executed a daring counter-ambush, leading a flanking assault on the enemy position. The action resulted in the elimination of two enemy personnel and the recovery of key weaponry, including a heavy machine gun and a universal machine gun along with ammunition and other military stores.

For this act of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime military decoration after the Param Vir Chakra.

The Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps also expressed profound grief, recalling Wangchuk as a distinguished veteran of the Kargil War whose leadership and military acumen contributed significantly to operational success in the Batalik sector. The Corps noted that his indomitable spirit and exemplary courage left a lasting imprint on the Army’s high-altitude warfare legacy.

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, along with all ranks of the Indian Army, paid heartfelt homage, reiterating that Colonel Wangchuk’s life stood as an enduring example of service, patriotism, and unity. The Army said his legacy would continue to guide and inspire future generations of soldiers.