J&K mourns as Army holds wreath-laying for 10 jawans killed in Doda accident
The Army on Friday held a wreath-laying ceremony for ten jawans who lost their lives in a tragic road accident in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. The ceremony took place with full military honours, reflecting the nation’s grief and respect for the fallen soldiers.
Senior officers led the tribute. Air Commodore A. Shridhar, Air Officer Commanding of Jammu Air Force Station, attended the ceremony. IGP Jammu zone Bhim Sen Tuti also joined. Lt Gen P.K. Mishra, General Officer Commanding of the White Knight Corps, laid a wreath alongside other officers. Together, they saluted the courage and sacrifice of the jawans.
The soldiers who died in the accident included Sowar Monu, Sowar Jobanjeet Singh, Sowar Mohit, Daffadar Shailendra Singh Bhadoriya, Sepoy Samiran Singh, Sepoy Pradumna Lohar, Sowar Sudhir Narwal, Naik Hare Ram Kunwar, Sepoy Ajay Lakra, and Sowar Rinkhil Baliyan. Their deaths have left families, units, and the wider defence community in deep sorrow.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss. He shared a message on social media and paid tribute to the soldiers. He said the nation would always remember their service. He also wished a speedy recovery for the injured and assured full support to the affected families.
The accident occurred in the Khanni Top area of Bhaderwah in Doda district. An Army vehicle carrying troops met with the mishap during movement for an operational task. The crash claimed ten lives and injured an equal number of personnel.
Soon after the incident, the White Knight Corps released details. The Corps said the vehicle slipped off the road while moving through difficult terrain. Bad weather worsened conditions in the area. Snow and low visibility added to the risk during the movement.
Following the crash, rescue operations began without delay. Army teams and local administration officials rushed to the site. They worked under challenging conditions, including steep slopes and harsh weather. Despite these hurdles, teams reached the injured personnel quickly.
At the site, medics provided immediate first aid. After initial treatment, authorities shifted the injured jawans for advanced care. Helicopters airlifted them to Command Hospital in Udhampur. Doctors there continue to monitor their condition closely.
Doda Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh later briefed the media. He said snow on the Bhaderwah–Chamba road played a major role in the accident. He confirmed that ten jawans died on the spot. He also said that out of eleven injured personnel, ten suffered serious injuries and required urgent air evacuation.
Singh added that authorities have started the process to send the bodies of the deceased soldiers to their families. The administration continues to coordinate with the Army to ensure smooth handling of all formalities.
Meanwhile, the Army has stepped up safety reviews for troop movement in snow-bound areas. Officers have asked units to exercise extra caution during bad weather. They have also stressed strict adherence to standard operating procedures in high-risk zones.
The tragedy has cast a pall over Jammu and Kashmir. Messages of condolence continue to pour in from across the country. Political leaders, veterans, and citizens have saluted the fallen jawans for their dedication and bravery.
As the region grieves, the focus remains on caring for the injured and supporting the families of the deceased. The Army and civil administration have pledged all assistance during this difficult time.
