Samba, Feb 12: The air in Kamila village, Samba, is heavy with grief and pride as the news of the martyrdom of Naik Mukesh in a suspected IED blast in the Akhnoor sector sent shockwaves through the community. Alongside him, Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi also lost his life, marking yet another tragic day for the nation’s armed forces.

Mukesh’s home has now become a place of remembrance, with villagers gathering to offer condolences and recount stories of his unwavering dedication to the country. The young soldier, known for his humility and love for his people, had always been an inspiration.

The village sarpanch, deeply shaken by the loss, described Mukesh as a man of the people. “Whenever he came home on leave, he would play with the village children and talk to the elders. His younger brother is also serving in the Army. The unit he belonged to has called, expressing their deep grief. His sacrifice is not just a loss to this village but to the entire nation,” he said.

Mukhtar Singh has made an emotional appeal to the Prime Minister and the Lieutenant Governor, urging them to ensure justice for the martyrs by bringing the perpetrators to book. “The culprits must be punished,” he added.

According to the Army’s White Knight Corps, the deadly blast occurred while the soldiers were conducting a fence patrol operation in the Laleali area of Akhnoor Sector, along the Line of Control (LoC). The incident has once again raised serious concerns about cross-border terrorism and the safety of troops stationed in high-risk zones.

Condemning the attack, senior BJP leader Kavinder Gupta pointed fingers at Pakistan, calling it a “desperate act of frustration.”

“This was a conspiracy hatched by terrorists across the border. Pakistan is unable to digest the peace prevailing in Jammu and Kashmir. That is why they continue these cowardly attacks,” Gupta remarked, emphasizing that despite such incidents, the Indian Army remains vigilant, ensuring security along the border.

The tragic incident has sparked outrage among locals, ex-servicemen, and political leaders, with demands for stricter action against terrorist elements. Social media is flooded with tributes to the fallen soldiers, with users demanding “swift and strong action” against those responsible for the attack.

Meanwhile, Mukesh’s family, though devastated, remains proud of their son’s supreme sacrifice. “He died protecting his motherland, and we stand strong, just like he would have wanted,” a relative said, tears welling up in his eyes.

As the mortal remains of the martyrs are awaited for the final rites, Kamila village stands united—proud yet broken, grieving yet resilient. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. India bows to its brave sons.