In a poignant reminder of the ongoing tensions along the India-Pakistan border, Constable Deepak Chingakham of the Border Security Force (BSF) was tragically killed during cross-border firing in the RS Pura sector of Jammu district. The 25-year-old soldier, hailing from Yambem Yairipok in Manipur, sustained severe injuries during the clashes that erupted late on May 10 and succumbed to his wounds early the following day.
The incident occurred just hours after a ceasefire agreement was put in place at 5 PM on May 10, highlighting the fragile and volatile nature of peace in the region. Reports indicate that the firing was initiated by Pakistan Rangers, with intense shelling, drone activity, and exchanges of fire persisting across both the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC), particularly impacting the Uri sector. This incident marks the second casualty for the BSF under the ongoing Operation Sindoor, which is characterized by a concerted military response to repeated ceasefire violations.
In recognition of Constable Chingakham’s ultimate sacrifice, a wreath-laying ceremony is scheduled for May 12 at the Frontier Headquarters in Paloura, Jammu. He is being honored posthumously as a symbol of bravery and commitment. Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed profound sorrow over the loss while emphasizing the honor the sacrifice brings to the Meitei community, particularly during a time of internal struggles in Manipur.
The region has been rife with ethnic conflict, particularly between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which has resulted in ongoing violence and displacement since early 2023. Chingakham’s martyrdom serves as a harrowing reminder of the multifaceted security challenges facing India, both at its borders and within its internal territories.
Operation Sindoor has seen a significant scaling up of military resources, with reports indicating that the Indian Navy has effectively constrained the Pakistan Navy to its coastal waters. The Indian government has issued a stern warning to Pakistan, underscoring that any further violations will elicit a robust retaliatory response.
In related news, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his condolences for another fallen soldier, Sub-Inspector Imtiaz from Saran district, who was killed in a separate but related incident.
Throughout the nation, tributes have been pouring in for the lost soldiers, serving as a somber reminder of the heavy toll that military personnel pay in their commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty amid both external threats and internal strife.
