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Tahir Fazal Choudhary, hailed as a hero of the 2003 counter-insurgency mission “Operation Sarp Vinash” in the Hill Kaka area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, has passed away in Uttarakhand following a heart attack.

Tahir Fazal Choudhary was not just an individual but a symbol of service to the nation. He dedicated his entire life to the protection of the country and society.

As a key member and leader of the Village Defence Guards, he carried out his duties with unwavering dedication and courage, even in the most difficult circumstances, and supported the Indian Army during Operation Sarp Vinash.

He was widely regarded as a brave hero and a true patriot for his contributions to Operation Sarp Vinash in 2003 in the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri.

Operation Sarp Vinash was conducted in 2003 at Hill Kaka in Jammu and Kashmir, where the Indian Army dismantled major terrorist hideouts. The operation was considered a significant success against militant groups in the region.

Hill Kaka, a small hamlet predominantly inhabited by nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals, was once a haven for terrorists. It is situated about 35 kilometres from the Line of Control (LoC) in Surankote tehsil of Poonch district in the Jammu region, south of the Pir Panjal range, and around 25 kilometres from the nearest road at Bafliaz.

Operation Sarp Vinash was successfully launched at Hill Kaka by security forces, with active support from local inhabitants, to eliminate terrorists from this “safe haven” in 2003. It is estimated that over 350 terrorists were present in the area at any given time, making it the largest terrorist hideout south of the Pir Panjal range.

Under Operation Sarp Vinash, troops were mobilised in the last week of March 2003, and the operation in the Hill Kaka area was formally launched on April 21, 2003. The operation led to the elimination of 65 terrorists, the arrest of three, the destruction of 119 hideouts, and the recovery of 79 major weapons along with large quantities of war-like stores.

During the operation, five Army personnel lost their lives in the line of duty, while five others were injured.

During Operation Sarp Vinash, Tahir’s bravery, indomitable courage, and leadership earned him a distinct identity.

He not only gained the trust of the security forces but also became a symbol of hope and security for the local population.

His fight against terrorism was not merely a responsibility but a lifelong commitment. He stood firm on every front and remained at the forefront in protecting innocent citizens.

The life of Tahir Fazal Choudhary stands as a testament to selfless service, unwavering dedication, and unmatched courage.

Tributes paid by the Indian Army

The Indian Army’s Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo) paid a befitting tribute to Tahir Fazal Choudhary, a key figure of Operation Sarp Vinash, during his last rites in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir.

His mortal remains were transported by road to his native village, Murrah, where the Indian Army organised his last rites, facilitating the presence of a large gathering that continued past midnight.

The Army conducted the solemn ceremony in keeping with the highest traditions, with a large number of people attending to pay tribute to the hero of Operation Sarp Vinash—an anti-terror operation that played a crucial role in eliminating terrorism from areas such as Hill Kaka and Murrah.

Paying homage, the Army described Tahir as a brave son of the soil who stood firm against terrorism in the Pir Panjal region, calling him a symbol of courage and unity.

The Army also lauded the role of Tahir and the Gujjar-Bakarwal community for consistently supporting counter-terrorism efforts and contributing to peace and stability in the region.

Following his demise, the Army extended full assistance in transporting his mortal remains and ensured logistical support for the smooth conduct of his last rites. Troops also shouldered the mortal remains as a mark of respect, while a two-minute silence and a wreath-laying ceremony were observed in accordance with military customs.

The Army conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. Meanwhile, locals from Murrah and Kulali expressed gratitude for the support extended, remembering Tahir Fazal Choudhary as a true hero whose loss has left the entire Poonch region in deep mourning.