RAJOURI, Jammu and Kashmir – Raj Kumar Thapa, 54, a senior Jammu and Kashmir Administration Services officer, was killed in a Pakistani artillery shell attack on his residential quarters in Rajouri on May 9 during Operation Sindoor. Thapa, serving as the District Development Commissioner, refused to abandon his post despite heavy shelling, remaining with civilians under his care. His death has drawn widespread tributes and renewed focus on cross-border hostilities in the region.

Thapa, who had previously earned acclaim for his service during the Kashmir floods, was struck by shelling while on duty. His wife, Dr. Meenakshi Kundan, recounted his final conversation, in which he stated, "If I leave my post, people will lose faith. I’m staying till my last breath." She described his unwavering commitment to duty, even at the cost of his life.

The officer’s body was returned wrapped in the Indian flag, and he was laid to rest with full military honors. Thousands attended his funeral, including local officials and residents who credited him with selfless service. The Jammu and Kashmir administration has not yet issued a formal statement on the incident, but tributes have poured in from political leaders and civil society groups.

Pakistani shelling in the Rajouri sector has escalated tensions in recent months, with Indian security forces reporting multiple ceasefire violations. Thapa’s death underscores the risks faced by civilian administrators in conflict zones. The Indian Army has vowed to respond to the attack, though no immediate retaliatory action has been confirmed.

The family has requested privacy as they mourn. Dr. Kundan, while expressing pride in her husband’s sacrifice, urged authorities to recognize the contributions of frontline officers during their lifetimes. The administration is expected to announce posthumous honors for Thapa in the coming days.