Nb Sub Raj Bahadur SC

Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur hailed from Barang village, located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, a region known for producing brave and patriotic sons of the soil. He completed his early education in his native village, where he was known for his discipline, determination, and a strong sense of duty toward the nation. Motivated by a deep desire to serve his country, he joined the Indian Army at a young age. He was recruited into the 16 Dogra Battalion of the Dogra Regiment, one of the oldest and most decorated infantry regiments of the Indian Army. The Dogra Regiment is renowned for its fearless soldiers and a glorious history of gallantry in numerous wars and military operations. After serving with dedication in his parent unit, Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur was deputed to the 62 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), a specialised counter-insurgency force of the Indian Army, tasked with conducting anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. His posting to the 62 RR placed him at the forefront of high-risk counter-insurgency operations in some of the most volatile and challenging regions of the country. There, he continued to uphold the proud traditions of the Dogra Regiment with unwavering courage and professionalism.

Counter-Insurgency Operation (J&K): 15 May 2006

During 2006, Nb Sub Raj Bahadur’s unit 62 RR battalion was deployed in the Srinagar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The unit was engaged in operations against the militants regularly as part of "Operation Rakshak". On 15 May 2006, there was an attempt by the militants from across the border to infiltrate into Indian territory.  The troops of the 62 RR battalion were already on high alert as the intelligence sources had informed the security forces about such possible attempts along the LOC. On getting specific intelligence, the troops of the 62 RR battalion launched a search and cordon operation in the suspected area in its AOR(Area of Responsibility). Swr Ikbal Ali was part of the team that was entrusted with the task of taking on the infiltrators.  intelligence reports indicated the presence of heavily armed terrorists hiding inside a residential house in a locality in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. Acting swiftly on this input, the security forces launched a search and cordon operation to neutralise the threat. Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur was part of the team tasked with clearing the area and flushing out the terrorists.

As the operation commenced, two terrorists were located inside the house. Throughout the night, Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur and his team maintained a high state of alertness, carefully engaging and containing the terrorists to prevent their escape or further violence. Despite the darkness and uncertainty, he remained steadfast, showcasing remarkable endurance and tactical composure. At dawn on 16 May 2006, Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur managed to spot one of the terrorists attempting to change position under the cover of darkness and debris. Undeterred by the heavy exchange of gunfire, he took a well-aimed and precise shot, successfully injuring the terrorist and bringing him down. Realising that the second terrorist remained a threat, Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur boldly advanced his position, braving intense enemy fire in an open and exposed area. Displaying outstanding courage, he engaged the second terrorist in a close-quarters encounter. Without concern for his personal safety, he closed in and successfully neutralised the second terrorist, eliminating a major threat to the operation.

However, as he turned around after this intense confrontation, the first terrorist—though critically injured—managed to fire a shot at close range, striking Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur in the face. Despite his grievous wounds, he had already ensured the success of the mission by eliminating the threats to his team and the civilian population. Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur succumbed to his injuries and was martyred on 16 May 2006, laying down his life in the line of duty with extraordinary gallantry and devotion. In recognition of his exceptional bravery, selfless service, and supreme sacrifice, Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur was posthumously awarded the "Shaurya Chakra", one of India’s highest peacetime gallantry awards, on 26 January 2007.

Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur is survived by his wife, Smt Prem Bhagati.

The citation of 'Shaurya Chakra' awarded to him reads:-

Based on specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists hiding in a house in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, a search-and-cordon operation was launched by security forces. Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur was part of the search party tasked with neutralising the threat. During the operation, he kept two terrorists effectively engaged throughout the night, preventing them from escaping and maintaining pressure despite hostile conditions. At first light, he spotted one of the terrorists and, under heavy enemy fire, took careful aim and seriously wounded him. Without hesitation, Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur shifted his position through a hail of bullets towards the second terrorist and engaged him. Fully exposed to intense and accurate fire, he charged at the terrorist in a rare display of raw courage. Showing complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved swiftly and fearlessly, closed in on the militant, and eliminated him at close range. As he turned back, the first terrorist—though injured—fired at him and shot him in the face. Gravely wounded, Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur collapsed on the battlefield, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Naib Subedar Raj Bahadur displayed exceptional leadership by leading from the front and demonstrated unparalleled courage in the face of grave danger. His indomitable spirit and selfless devotion to duty stand as a lasting example of the highest traditions of the Indian Army.