Rifleman SC Sati

During the Kargil War, Rifleman SC Sati was part of the 17 Garhwal Rifles, which was deployed in the Batalik-Yaldor sector of Jammu & Kashmir under Operation Vijay. The unit operated under the command of the 70 Infantry Brigade, which was part of the 3 Infantry Division. By early May 1999, Pakistani forces had infiltrated across the Line of Control (LOC) in the Mushkoh, Dras, Kaksar, and Batalik sectors, with intrusions ranging between 4 to 8 kilometers into Indian territory. The intrusions in the Batalik-Yaldor area were first detected in the first week of May. In many strategically important locations, Indian artillery and air power were ineffective in dislodging the enemy, as their positions were out of visible range and fortified in rugged terrain. After assessing the enemy’s layout and the complexity of the terrain, it was decided to carve out a corridor to the LOC through Junk Lungpa to split the enemy’s intrusion zone. This operation was entrusted to 12 JAK LI, 10 Para (Special Forces), and a company of Ladakh Scouts. The mission was successfully completed by 03 June 1999, opening a critical corridor. However, the enemy continued to hold dominant positions on the surrounding ridgelines to the west, east, and north.

Following the successful capture of Point 5203 on 08 June 1999, Indian forces turned their attention to the northern heights on the western flank of the Jubar Ridge—specifically the areas known as Bump II, Bump III, Kala Pathar, and Mound. The task of capturing these key enemy positions was assigned to 17 Garhwal Rifles, led by Captain Jintu Gogoi. The assault plan involved attacking each position with a dedicated company. Prior reconnaissance had revealed enemy presence between Bump II and Bump III, areas where Para SF had already conducted operations. The battalion set up a firm base about 4–5 km away at a location called Flat Area in China Nala, from where final preparations for the assault were carried out. On the evening of 29 June 1999, under fading light, the assault columns led by Captain Jintu Gogoi began their advance. The approach to the objective involved a steep and challenging climb of nearly 1 km. Rifleman SC Sati was part of this assault team. As the soldiers reached the top of the ridge, they were spotted and soon surrounded by enemy forces. Rifleman Satish Chandra Sati fought with unwavering determination and valour. He made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, laying down his life for the nation.

In this fiercely contested battle, twelve brave soldiers of the 17 Garhwal Rifles made the supreme sacrifice. Among them were Captain Jintu Gogoi and Rifleman SC Sati, along with Naik Shiv Singh, Lance Naik Madan Singh, Lance Naik Devendra Prasad, Lance Naik Dinesh Datt, Rifleman Birendra Lal, Rifleman Amit Negi, Rifleman Vijay Singh, Rifleman JS Bhandari, Rifleman Ranjeet Singh, and Rifleman Bhagwan Singh. Despite the heavy losses, the battalion launched renewed attacks in the following days and successfully captured the assigned objective. This achievement paved the way for further victories, including the capture of another dominant feature in the Muntho Dhalo complex. Ultimately, the battalion seized Point 5285, overcoming extreme weather conditions and intense enemy fire. For its exceptional valour and performance during 'Operation Vijay', the battalion was awarded the Battle Honour ‘Batalik’. Rifleman SC Sati, a courageous and devoted soldier, laid down his life in the line of duty at the young age of 23.