Sepoy Agoi Wangsa SC

Sepoy Agoi Wangsa was born on 1st January 1965 in Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh, to Shri Wangpoi Wangsa and Smt. Wangkhou Wangsa. Growing up amidst the rugged terrain and rich tribal culture of the region, he imbibed the values of resilience, discipline, and patriotism from an early age. Inspired by the sacrifices and valour of Indian soldiers, he developed a strong desire to serve the nation. After completing his initial education, Sepoy Wangsa joined the Indian Army, motivated by his commitment to contribute towards national security. He was recruited into the 3rd Battalion of the Assam Regiment on 13th September 1983. Known for its fearless soldiers and significant operational achievements, the Assam Regiment was raised on 15th June 1941 in Shillong and earned accolades such as the Battle Honour for its exemplary defence during the Battle of Chamb in the 1971 Indo-Pak War.

From the outset of his military service, Sepoy Wangsa displayed remarkable dedication, courage, and a deep sense of duty. He successfully completed his rigorous training and adapted well to the demanding life of a soldier. His discipline and resolve quickly earned him the respect of his peers and seniors alike. During his tenure with 3 Assam, he took part in numerous operational deployments, particularly in the insurgency-affected regions of Northeast India. His role in counter-insurgency and internal security operations was crucial, as the battalion was frequently engaged in combating militant threats and safeguarding civilians in volatile areas. Through his actions, Sepoy Wangsa exemplified the bravery and professionalism for which the Assam Regiment is renowned.

Punjab Operation: 16 Jun 1992

In June 1992, Sepoy Agoi Wangsa's unit, 3 Assam, was deployed in Punjab, which was severely affected by devastating floods. The calamity submerged vast areas, posing a serious threat to thousands of lives. Amidst this challenging period, Sepoy Agoi Wangsa was part of a search party assigned to conduct a cordon and search operation in Jagatpura village of Punjab on 16 June 1992. The mission aimed to locate and neutralize potential militant threats in the area. Around 12:30 PM, while the team was meticulously searching a house, they were suddenly ambushed by militants concealed in a corner room. The surprise attack placed the search party in immediate peril. Reacting swiftly, the soldiers assumed defensive positions, and an intense exchange of gunfire ensued. During the fierce encounter, two members of the search team became trapped in an adjoining room, directly exposed to the militants' line of fire. With no immediate escape and their lives hanging in the balance, the situation grew increasingly critical.

Realizing the criticality of the situation, Sepoy Wangsa acted with exceptional courage, quick thinking, and selflessness. Without considering his own safety, he decided to take immediate action to rescue his fellow soldiers. With bullets flying all around, Sepoy Wangsa crawled forward to the compound gate, positioning himself in an exposed area where the militants could see him. He engaged the enemy with fire, intentionally drawing their attention towards himself. This bold and calculated move created a crucial diversion, allowing the trapped soldiers a chance to escape. While maintaining suppressive fire against the militants, Sepoy Wangsa simultaneously signaled the two trapped soldiers to move across the compound wall to safety. His quick and fearless decision-making ensured the successful rescue of his comrades, who were able to reach a secure position.

As the gunfight raged on, Sepoy Wangsa was hit in the chest by enemy fire. Despite his serious and life-threatening injury, he remained undeterred and focused on his mission. With incredible willpower, he mustered his remaining strength to close the compound gate, effectively trapping and cornering the militants inside. His brave and decisive action helped his team gain a tactical advantage, ultimately leading to the elimination of the enemy threat. However, during the evacuation process, Sepoy Wangsa succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital. Through his unwavering dedication, exceptional bravery, and supreme sacrifice, Sepoy Agoi Wangsa not only saved the lives of his fellow soldiers but also played a crucial role in securing victory for his unit. Sepoy Agoi Wangsa was given the nation’s third-highest gallantry award “Shaurya Chakra” for his courage, unyielding fighting spirit and supreme sacrifice.

Sepoy Agoi Wangsa is survived by his wife Smt Koiman Wangpan and son Shri Sanpha Wangsa. 

The citation for "Shaurya  Chakra" awarded to him reads:

Sepoy Agoi Wangsa was a member of a search party deployed for cordon and search operation at village Jagatpura on the 16th June 1992. At approximately 1230 hours while carrying out a search of a house. the party was fired upon by some militants hiding in a corner room. The search party immediately took up positions and on intense exchange of fire took place. In this process, two members of the party got trapped in an adjoining room. These people faced serious and grave risk of life from the militants. It was essential to extricate them. Realising the gravity of the situation, Sepov Wangsa crawled forward to the compound gate ard engaged the militants dive ting their attention. Then, he simultaneously directed the two men across the compound wall to move in a safer direction During this exchange of fire, Seney Wangsa was hit in the chest. Unmindful of his injury. be close the cate braving the militants' fire, thereby corner- in them. Sepoy Wangea later, succumbed to the iniury on way to hospital. By his gal'ant action. Sepoy Wangsa saved the lives of his fellow jawans and ensured swift elimination of the militants.

Sep Agoi Wangsa displayed the most conspicuous bravery and made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the Nation. For his this selfless gallant act which is in the highest traditions of the Indian Army, Sepoy Agoi Wangsa was awarded ‘SHAURYA CHAKRA’ (Posthumous) on 26 Jan 1993.