Capt Sanjeev S Pathak

Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak hailed from Delhi and was the son of Shri Shiv Prasad. He grew up in a family that deeply valued discipline, duty, and service to the nation. Motivated by a desire to serve the country in uniform, he worked with determination toward a career in the armed forces. After completing his graduation, he qualified for entry into the Indian Army and joined the prestigious Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai. He successfully completed his training and passed out as part of the SS-68 Course, earning his commission as an officer. On commissioning, he was commissioned as a Lieutenant into the 2nd Battalion of the Rajput Regiment, an infantry battalion renowned for its fearless soldiers and its long, distinguished record of courage and battlefield valour.

During his service with the Rajput Regiment, Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak distinguished himself through professional excellence, dedication, and unwavering commitment to duty. He consistently demonstrated the highest qualities expected of an officer — discipline, integrity, leadership, and courage. Known for his composed temperament and decisive approach, he earned the trust and admiration of both his superiors and subordinates. He was equally admired on a personal level — deeply valued by his family and warmly regarded by his fellow officers and men for his approachable nature and strong sense of camaraderie. After rendering commendable service with his parent battalion, Capt Pathak was deputed to the 44 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion, a formation specially tasked with counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. Serving with the Rashtriya Rifles required exceptional mental and physical resilience, as operations were conducted in high-risk and unpredictable conditions. In this demanding operational environment, Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak continued to display outstanding courage and professionalism. He took part in numerous counter-insurgency operations and handled complex situations with calmness and tactical clarity. 

Shopian Operation: 13 Aug 2002

In August 2002, Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak was serving with 44 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion, which was deployed in the volatile Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. The area, characterised by dense orchards and difficult terrain, was a known hub of militant activity and demanded continuous surveillance and frequent counter-insurgency operations. The battalion was operating under Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Victor Force, functioning under the operational control of XV Corps (Chinar Corps), responsible for military operations across the Kashmir Valley. This deployment placed Capt Pathak and his unit in one of the most operationally demanding sectors of the country. On 13 August 2002, credible intelligence inputs indicated the presence of hardcore militants in the Kach Dorah village area of Shopian district. Acting swiftly on this information, security forces planned a coordinated cordon-and-search operation to neutralise the threat. Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak was assigned a critical role in the mission and moved with his team to the suspected area. Leading from the front, he skillfully deployed his men and established positions to seal the likely escape routes.

As the cordon tightened around the target area, the cornered militants opened heavy and indiscriminate fire in a desperate attempt to break out. Displaying exceptional composure under fire, Capt Pathak motivated his men to hold their ground and respond effectively. Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak, along with his JCO Subedar Hazari Lal Gujjar, took position on the most probable escape route, fully aware of the risk involved. This exposed position soon came under intense hostile fire as the militants attempted to flee. In the fierce exchange that followed, Capt Pathak was struck by gunshots and was grievously wounded. Despite his critical injuries, he continued to direct his troops and control the engagement, ensuring the militants remained pinned down and that the mission was not compromised. His courage and determination under fire inspired his men to sustain the pressure. Fighting with outstanding bravery and resolve at close quarters, both Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak and Subedar Hazari Lal Gujjar  sustained fatal injuries during the encounter and laid down their lives in the line of duty. Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak’s courage, tenacity, and fearless leadership reflected the highest traditions of the Indian Army. 

Capt Sanjeev S. Pathak is survived by his father, Shri Shiv Prasad and mother Smt Prasad.