Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, a Kargil War hero and Mahavir Chakra awardee, has died of a heart attack at the age of 61. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his grief over the passing of Colonel Wangchuk, who had retired and was living in Ladakh.
During the Kargil War in 1999, Colonel Wangchuk led the Ladakh Scouts in securing Chorbat La in the Batalik sub-sector, along the Line of Control with Pakistan in Ladakh. He established key observation posts under harsh conditions, engaged enemy troops, and successfully eliminated several intruders.
According to his gallantry award citation, Colonel Wangchuk climbed through fresh snow to encounter and kill enemy soldiers, and later led an assault that captured an enemy-held feature, killing six soldiers.
The Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army expressed profound grief on the passing of Colonel Wangchuk, calling him a distinguished veteran of the Kargil War, remembered for his exemplary courage and inspiring leadership in the Batalik Sector.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to Colonel Wangchuk, saying he was a highly decorated officer of the Indian Army, renowned for his gallantry, resolute leadership and unwavering commitment to duty.
