Sepoy Basavaraj

Sepoy Basavaraj was born on 20th August 1971 to Shri Veerebhadrappa and Smt Shantamma in Kondi Koppa Village, Annigeri Taluk, Dharwad district, Karnataka. From a young age, he harbored a strong desire to serve the nation by joining the Indian Army. After completing his graduation in his hometown, he set out to pursue his dream. On 29th October 1993, at the age of 22, he was enrolled in the prestigious Jat Regiment, marking the beginning of his journey as a soldier.

On 25th May 1996, Sep Basavaraj married Ms. Mallava, and together they were blessed with two sons, Sanjay and Sudeep. Despite the challenges of military life, he remained a devoted husband and father while giving his all to his duties as a soldier. During his 8 years of service, Sep Basavaraj served in numerous operational areas and became a seasoned and resolute soldier.

Doda Operation : 13 Aug 2002

In 2002, Sep Basavaraj’s unit was deployed in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, a region known for its volatile security situation due to heightened insurgency. Committed to maintaining peace and safeguarding the nation, Sep Basavaraj and his comrades were engaged in intensive anti-insurgency operations during this period.

On 13th August 2002, the unit received credible intelligence regarding the presence of heavily armed militants in Trenna village, Doda district. Acting on this critical information, the leadership meticulously analyzed the inputs and devised a search-and-destroy operation to neutralize the threat. A team of brave soldiers, including Sep Basavaraj from the Jat Regiment, was tasked with executing the mission. As the team moved into the suspected area, they began a systematic search and cordon operation in Trenna village. Their vigilance soon paid off when they spotted the militants in the vicinity. Upon being challenged, the militants opened fire, triggering a fierce gunfight. The atmosphere quickly turned intense as heavy exchange of fire ensued between the militants and the soldiers.

Amidst the chaos, Sep Basavaraj and his team displayed exceptional courage and tactical acumen, making calculated moves to pin down the militants. Undeterred by the danger, they pressed on with their mission to eliminate the threat. However, during this intense firefight, Sep Basavaraj was struck by a bullet on his head, sustaining grievous injuries. Despite the valiant efforts of his comrades to save him, Sep Basavaraj succumbed to his injuries, attaining martyrdom in the line of duty. Sep Basavaraj’s bravery and ultimate sacrifice exemplify the true spirit of a soldier who places duty and country above all else. He laid down his life fighting for the security and sovereignty of the nation, embodying the values of courage, dedication, and selflessness.

Sepoy Basavaraj is survived by his wife Smt Mallava and two sons Sanjay and Sudeep.