Sep Chandan Kumar Jha

Sepoy Chandan Kumar Jha hailed from Sanali village in Katihar district of Bihar. From a young age, he exhibited a strong sense of duty and a deep commitment to serving the nation. After completing his school education, he joined the Indian Army, taking his first steps toward a life dedicated to protecting the country's sovereignty and integrity. He was recruited into the 8 Bihar Battalion of the Bihar Regiment, an illustrious infantry unit renowned for its remarkable history and unwavering dedication to duty. The Bihar Regiment, established in 1941, stands as one of the oldest and most decorated regiments in the Indian Army. It has built a legacy of gallantry, valour, and sacrifice over the decades, consistently producing fearless and highly skilled soldiers who excel in both combat and discipline.

Gurez Sector Avalanche: 17 Nov 2008

In 2008, Sep Chandan Kumar Jha’s unit, 8 Bihar, was stationed in Jammu & Kashmir, operating in the Gurez Sector along the Line of Control (LOC). This region, infamous for its treacherous terrain and severe climatic conditions, posed immense challenges, particularly during the harsh winter months. Temperatures would drop drastically, and the area would be engulfed in heavy snowfall, transforming even routine tasks into perilous operations. The soldiers of the 8 Bihar Battalion were entrusted with the critical responsibility of defending the LOC and maintaining constant vigilance over a strategically significant area susceptible to infiltration. Stationed at various forward posts, they often worked under extreme conditions, enduring freezing temperatures. Regular patrols between posts were essential to secure the sector and counter potential threats from enemy forces.

The relentless weather further compounded the risks, with heavy snowfall frequently obstructing roads, disrupting supply routes, and heightening the danger of avalanches—an ever-present and life-threatening hazard in the Gurez Sector. Despite these formidable challenges, the troops remained steadfast in their duty, exemplifying resilience and dedication in the face of adversity. On 16 November 2008, an 'Area Domination Patrol' from the battalion was assigned a crucial task to traverse a planned route in the snow-covered terrain. The patrol aimed to monitor and secure the area between the forward posts, a standard procedure to prevent any enemy movement and ensure the safety of the sector. However, as the patrol progressed, a sudden and massive avalanche struck with devastating force. The sheer magnitude and unpredictability of the avalanche left the soldiers with no time to react or take evasive action. Trapped under tons of snow, several brave soldiers of the unit went missing, buried deep beneath the icy debris. Upon receiving the distress call about the missing soldiers, a search and rescue operation was set under the leadership of Major Ajay Upreti. Known for his exemplary leadership and a deep sense of responsibility towards his troops, Major Upreti swiftly assembled a rescue team, including the Ghatak Platoon Commander, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and led the mission himself. Sep Chandan Kumar Jha was part of the assigned team. Time was of the essence, as survival chances in such situations could diminish rapidly due to the severe cold and lack of oxygen. Sep Chandan Kumar Jha and his comrades equipped with whatever gear was available, braved the blizzard-like conditions, navigating the treacherous snow-covered slopes. 

Despite the hostile weather and hazardous conditions, Sep Chandan Kumar Jha and the rescue team pressed forward with determination and courage. They navigated through the deep snow and treacherous slopes, displaying exceptional resolve in their efforts to locate and save their fellow soldiers. The urgency of the situation demanded immediate action, and the team showed remarkable coordination and leadership as they conducted the rescue operation. However, as they worked tirelessly the snow mass, loosened by the earlier avalanche and the unstable weather conditions, came down in a powerful surge. This sudden onslaught of snow buried the entire rescue team, including Sep Chandan Kumar Jha, Major Ajay Upreti, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and four other brave soldiers. Despite their heroic efforts, they were engulfed by the immense force of nature, and buried under tons of snow. The brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice alongside Sep Chandan Kumar Jha include Maj Ajay Upreti, Lt Amit Beniwal, Nk Kishore Dung, Nk Bhukan Oroan, Nk Amrit Lal Horo, and L/Nk Saiba Baskey.

The sacrifice of Sep Chandan Kumar Jha, along with his comrades, serves as a powerful testament to the immense dangers faced by Indian Army personnel in challenging and hostile conditions. Sep Chandan Kumar Jha embodied the true spirit of selflessness, prioritizing the safety and welfare of his fellow soldiers over his own life. 

Sepoy Chandan Kumar Jha Is survived by his wife Smt Rekha Devi.