J&K: Assam Rifles Soldier's Mortal Remains Brought to Poonch; Son Pledges to Join Indian Army and Serve the Nation

The mortal remains of Havildar Mohd Iqbal, an Assam Rifles soldier who laid down his life while serving in Nagaland, were brought to his hometown of Kallar Mohra in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Wednesday. Army personnel paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen soldier, recognising his dedication and selfless service to the nation. Family members, relatives, and hundreds of local residents gathered at his residence to pay their last respects and bid an emotional farewell.

Havildar Iqbal's son, Fasal Iqbal, said the family was proud of his father's sacrifice. "We are proud that he gave his life for the country. It is a matter of great honour for our family that he fulfilled his duty with such courage," he said. Inspired by his father's commitment to the nation, Fasal expressed his desire to join the armed forces in the future. He said his goal is to become an Army officer, serve India with dedication, and stand firmly against those who threaten the country's security.

Havildar Mohd Iqbal was posted in Nagaland when he lost his life while carrying out his official duties. On July 11, the Assam Rifles held a wreath-laying ceremony at the Radhanagar Battalion in Tripura to honour the memory of Rifleman (GD) Govind Singh of the 28 Assam Rifles, who made the supreme sacrifice while serving the nation on July 10, 1996.

According to the force, a search operation was launched in the Mandrala area of Jammu and Kashmir after intelligence inputs indicated the presence of militants. As the team neared the suspected hideout, it came under heavy gunfire. During the intense encounter, Rifleman Govind Singh displayed exceptional bravery and steadfast devotion to duty. Despite sustaining serious bullet injuries, he continued to fight before eventually succumbing to his wounds.

Senior officers, including the Commandant, Second-in-Command, Adjutant, and Subedar Major, laid wreaths during the ceremony, which was attended by battalion personnel. As part of the tribute, troops observed a two-minute silence to honour Rifleman Govind Singh's courage and sacrifice. The Assam Rifles said his legacy continues to inspire generations of soldiers and reaffirmed the force's commitment to preserving the memory of its brave personnel who laid down their lives in service of the nation.