J-K: Mortal remains of Assam Rifles soldier reach Poonch; son vows to join Army to serve nation
Poonch, July 16
The mortal remains of Havildar Mohd Iqbal, an Assam Rifles soldier who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty in Nagaland, was brought to his native residence in Kallar Mohra, Poonch, on Wednesday.
Army personnel paid a solemn tribute to the Assam Rifles' fallen soldier, honouring his dedication and service to the nation. A large number of locals and relatives gathered at his residence to catch a final glimpse and pay their respects to the braveheart.
Speaking to ANI, Fasal Iqbal, the son of the deceased Havildar, expressed immense pride in his father's sacrifice and shared his own resolve to serve the country.
"We feel proud that he made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. I feel good knowing he did something truly right for the country and made that sacrifice. It is a matter of pride for all of us," Fasal said.
Motivated by his father's valour, Fasal added that he intends to follow in his footsteps by joining the armed forces. "My resolve is to become a good officer, serve the country, and take revenge on the enemies," he added.
Havildar Mohd Iqbal had been serving in Nagaland, where he lost his life while performing his duties.
Earlier on July 11, the Assam Rifles in Tripura had also organised a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Radhanagar Battalion in remembrance of Rifleman (GD) Govind Singh of 28 Assam Rifles, who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the Nation on 10 July 1996.
On 10 July 1996, based on specific intelligence regarding the presence of militants in the general area of Mandrala in Jammu & Kashmir, a search operation was launched. As the party approached the suspected militant camp, it came under fire. During the fierce exchange of fire, Rifleman (GD) Govind Singh displayed exemplary courage and devotion to duty. He sustained gunshot wounds and later succumbed to his injuries, laying down his life in the highest traditions of valour and selfless service.
The wreaths were laid by the Subedar Major, Adjutant, Second-in-Command and the Commandant of the Battalion in a dignified ceremony attended by all troops.
The gathering observed two minutes of silence as a mark of respect to the fallen soldier whose unwavering courage and supreme sacrifice continue to inspire generations of Assam Rifles personnel.
The ceremony served as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers of Assam Rifles and reaffirmed the Force's unwavering commitment to honouring their legacy.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The pride in Fasal's voice as he spoke about his father's sacrifice is truly inspiring. Our jawans give everything for the country. But I also wonder about the families left behind - we need to ensure they get all support from the government and society.
This is a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict in Kashmir. So many brave soldiers from the region serve in the forces. I hope Fasal achieves his dream of becoming an officer - his father would be proud.
It's amazing to see the sense of duty passed down through generations. The sacrifice of Rifleman Govind Singh in 1996 is also remembered. We must never forget the price paid for our security.
These stories always bring a tear to my eye. A big salute to Havildar Iqbal and his family. His son vowing to take revenge on enemies shows the spirit of our youth. But I also hope the government works for peace so fewer families have to go through this pain.
Jai Hind to our brave soldiers! The story of the wreath-laying ceremony in Tripura for the 1996 martyr shows the Assam Rifles' commitment to honouring their fallen. These traditions keep the spirit of sacrifice alive. Fasal's resolve is truly commendable.
N Neha E