Amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, the nation mourns the loss of two brave soldiers — Subedar Major Pawan Jaryal of the Indian Army and BSF Constable (GD) Deepak Chimngakham — who laid down their lives during hostilities along the border.
'Subedar Major Pawan Jaryal Requested Transfer to the Border'
Subedar Major Pawan Jaryal, a native of Ward Number 4 in Shahpur, Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, was killed in action while defending Indian territory in Rajouri.
A decorated soldier of the 25th Punjab Regiment, Jaryal had previously been posted in Ambala and had personally requested a transfer to a border location. Following his transfer, he laid down his life in the line of duty while engaging Pakistani forces.
Garj Singh, father of the deceased, said that his son, Subedar Major Pawan Kumar, was about to retire in August 2025 after completing 32 years in the army.
He says, "A few months ago, when my son was given the option to choose his final posting, he opted for posting in a border town. We were all planning for his return, who would have thought he would come home wrapped in the tricolour."
Garj Singh further added, "We used to talk every day. Yesterday or the day before, I asked him, 'If there is a fire, is there a shelter arrangement there?' He had replied, saying that there is an underground shelter. But our barracks are built in such a way that they do not break. We are not in any danger. There is no need to go to the underground shelter."
His mortal remains were brought to his native village, Shahpur, on Monday, 12 May, where a large number of locals gathered to pay their heartfelt tributes.
Local MLA Kewal Singh Pathania, who has remained in contact with both the soldier's family and Army officials, expressed his condolences. “Pawan’s valour and sense of duty will never be forgotten. We stand with his family and salute his sacrifice,” he stated.
Constable Deepak Chimngakham – ' A Proud Son of Manipur'
BSF Constable (GD) Deepak Chimngakham, a native of Yairipok Yambem in Imphal East district, Manipur, laid down his life on 11 May after succumbing to injuries sustained during cross-border firing along the International Border in the R.S. Pura area of Jammu district
He was among eight BSF personnel injured in the unprovoked shelling initiated by Pakistani forces on 10 May.
The Border Security Force confirmed his death in an official statement that read,
“Constable Deepak Chimngakham sustained fatal injuries during cross-border firing along the International Boundary in R S Pura area, Jammu district, on 10 May, and attained martyrdom on 11 May.”
The BSF further announced that a wreath-laying ceremony with full honours will be held on 12 May at the BSF Frontier Headquarters in Paloura, Jammu.
BJP Manipur State President A Sharda Devi described him as 'a proud son of Manipur' and said, "his courage and devotion reflect the unwavering spirit and commitment of the Manipuri people".
Leaders across political parties paid tribute to the fallen soldier.
Manipur Congress President Keisham Meghachandra also expressed his condolences, stating, “The people of Manipur, and indeed the entire nation, are proud of his bravery and commitment. We will remember him for his supreme sacrifice for our motherland.”
Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh, paying his respects, said, “He was a proud son of Manipur, and as a Manipuri-Meitei, his courage and devotion to the nation reflect the unwavering commitment of our people to protect and serve.”
The BSF also confirmed that Sub-Inspector Mohammed Imteyaz was killed in action during the same exchange of fire on 10 May that claimed Chimngakham's life.