Service No : IC-54012H

Place of birth : Amritsar Dist (Punjab)

Service : Army

Last Rank : Major

Unit : 3 RR /8 JAK Rif

Arm/Regt : The J&K Rifles

Operation : CI & IS Ops

Awards : Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal

Martyrdom : April 29, 2002

Major Tejinder Pal Singh Sohal SC SM

Major Tejinder Pal Singh Sohal hailed from the Amritsar district of Punjab, where he was raised in a humble rural environment. His upbringing instilled in him strong values of discipline, responsibility, and a deep sense of patriotism from an early age. Inspired by a desire to serve the nation, he chose a career in the Indian Army after completing his school education. He was commissioned into the 8 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (8 JAK Rif), a distinguished battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment, known for its rich legacy of gallantry and its exemplary role in numerous military operations. During his early years with the battalion, he honed his military skills, gaining valuable field experience and establishing himself as a competent and dependable officer. In recognition of his distinguished service during this period, he was awarded the Sena Medal. He was later deputed to serve with 3 Rashtriya Rifles (3 RR), a unit specifically raised for counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The Rashtriya Rifles operate in some of the most challenging and volatile environments, requiring exceptional courage, tactical acumen, and resilience.

 

During his tenure with 3 RR, Major Sohal was actively engaged in counterinsurgency operations in the region. He displayed unwavering commitment, professionalism, and a high sense of duty while operating in one of the country’s most sensitive and high-risk operational areas. His conduct throughout this period reflected his dedication to the mission and his steadfast resolve to uphold the honour and integrity of the Indian Army.

 

Anantnag Operation: 29 Apr 2002

 

In Apr 2002, Major Tejinder Pal Singh Sohal was serving with 3 Rashtriya Rifles, deployed in the militancy-affected Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. At the time, the region was among the most volatile areas in the Kashmir Valley, frequently witnessing terrorist activities such as ambushes, targeted attacks, and infiltration attempts. The challenging operational environment demanded constant vigilance, rapid response, and exceptional courage from the troops. The unit was actively engaged in counterinsurgency duties aimed at neutralizing terrorist threats and safeguarding the local population. Their tasks included area domination patrols, search-and-cordon operations, and securing key routes and vulnerable locations. Given the persistent threat of sudden attacks, all troop movements were carefully planned and executed, often in well-protected convoys, with soldiers maintaining a high level of alertness at all times.

 

On 29 April 2002, during a cordon and search operation in the village of Bandarpur in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, Major Tejinder Pal Singh Sohal was leading his troops in a high-risk mission aimed at flushing out hidden terrorists. The operation was underway when two terrorists, concealed in a nearby paddy field, suddenly opened intense fire at close range, catching the troops in a vulnerable position. Demonstrating presence of mind and exceptional combat instincts, Major Sohal reacted instantly. Taking charge of the situation, he returned fire with precision and successfully neutralized one of the terrorists. However, the second terrorist managed to escape the initial engagement and ran towards a nearby house, attempting to take cover and prolong the encounter. Unmindful of the grave danger and placing the safety of his men above his own, Major Sohal immediately pursued the fleeing terrorist. Closing the distance, he engaged him in a fierce close-quarters battle. During this exchange of fire, he sustained a gunshot wound to his shoulder. Despite the injury and the pain, he refused to disengage and continued to press forward with determination. The terrorist, realizing his position was compromised, intensified his resistance. He continued firing indiscriminately and attempted to lob a grenade towards the troops who were following Major Sohal, posing a serious and immediate threat to their lives. Fully aware of the danger to his men, Major Sohal, though grievously wounded, displayed extraordinary courage and decisiveness. He closed in on the terrorist, denying him any opportunity to cause further harm, and successfully eliminated him.

 

In the course of this gallant action, Major Sohal sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his neck and chest. His fearless leadership, unwavering resolve, and supreme disregard for personal safety ensured the success of the operation and saved the lives of his comrades. Despite the best efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Major TPS Sohal was posthumously honoured with the prestigious "Shaurya Chakra" in recognition of his exceptional bravery, steadfast devotion to duty, and selfless service to the nation.

 

Major Tejinder Pal Singh Sohal is survived by his wife, Smt Vimmi Sohal.

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