Lance Naik Dinesh Datt

During the Kargil War of 1999, Lance Naik Dinesh Datt served with the 17 Garhwal Rifles, a battalion deployed in the Batalik-Yaldor sector of Jammu and Kashmir as part of Operation Vijay—the Indian Army’s concerted effort to evict enemy intruders from Indian territory. The battalion operated under the 70 Infantry Brigade, which formed part of the 3 Infantry Division. By early May 1999, Pakistani forces had infiltrated 4 to 8 kilometers across the Line of Control (LoC) in multiple sectors including Mushkoh, Dras, Kaksar, and Batalik. These infiltrators had established fortified positions atop rugged, high-altitude terrain, making them difficult to detect and harder still to dislodge. In the Batalik-Yaldor sector, the first signs of intrusion were observed in the opening week of May. Due to the enemy’s advantage of elevation and natural concealment, both Indian artillery and air strikes proved largely ineffective. After thoroughly assessing the terrain and enemy fortifications, Indian commanders devised a bold plan to carve a corridor through Junk Lungpa, aiming to split the intrusion zone and regain operational control. This critical mission was entrusted to 12 JAK LI, 10 Para (Special Forces), and a company of the Ladakh Scouts. By 3 June 1999, the corridor was successfully established, opening up access to the LoC. However, the enemy continued to hold strategically important positions along ridgelines to the west, east, and north.

With the successful capture of Point 5203 on 8 June 1999, attention shifted to the next set of dominant enemy-held features on the western flank of the Jubar Ridge—specifically Bump II, Bump III, Kala Pathar, and Mound. The responsibility for capturing these formidable positions was assigned to the 17 Garhwal Rifles, under the leadership of Captain Jintu Gogoi. Each objective was designated to a separate company, with reconnaissance confirming enemy presence, especially between Bump II and Bump III, where limited operations by Para SF had previously taken place. A forward base was established at a location known as Flat Area in China Nala, approximately 4–5 kilometers from the objectives. Final assault preparations were carried out from this point. On the evening of 29 June 1999, as dusk set in, the assault teams led by Captain Gogoi commenced their climb toward the enemy-held ridges. The approach was grueling—almost a vertical ascent of one kilometer under harsh, high-altitude conditions.

Lance Naik Dinesh Datt was a part of this courageous assault group. As the team reached the ridge, they were spotted and soon surrounded by entrenched enemy forces. A fierce gun battle ensued in the dark of night. Amidst the intense firefight, L/Nk Dinesh Datt fought with indomitable spirit and selfless courage. In the face of overwhelming odds, he laid down his life in the line of duty, embodying the highest traditions of the Indian Army. The encounter was fierce and exacted a heavy toll. Twelve gallant soldiers of the 17 Garhwal Rifles were martyred in this operation, including: Captain Jintu Gogoi, Naik Shiv Singh, Lance Naik Dinesh Datt, Lance Naik Madan Singh, Lance Naik Devendra Prasad,  Rifleman Birendra Lal, Rifleman Amit Negi, Rifleman Vijay Singh, Rifleman JS Bhandari, Rifleman SC Sati, Rifleman Ranjeet Singh and Rifleman Bhagwan Singh. Despite the loss, the battalion regrouped and launched renewed offensives in the days that followed. Their persistence paid off, culminating in the successful capture of all assigned objectives. This success enabled further advances, including the assault on the Muntho Dhalo complex and the eventual capture of Point 5285—a major tactical victory secured under relentless enemy fire and extreme weather conditions. In recognition of its exceptional courage and success in battle, the 17 Garhwal Rifles was awarded the Battle Honour ‘Batalik’. Lance Naik Dinesh Datt, through his valour, and ultimate sacrifice, upheld the finest values of the Indian Army. 

Lance Naik Dinesh Datt is survived by his wife Smt Sudha Devi.