Name: Naib Subedar Bhupal Singh Chhantel Magar
Unit: 5/5 Gorkha Rifles
Date of Action: 31 August 2013
Place of Action: Kupwara District, Jammu and Kashmir

Naib Subedar Bhupal Singh Chhantel Magar of 5/5 Gorkha Rifles remains remembered for an act of exceptional courage carried out in the difficult and unforgiving terrain of Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir. Serving at a time when the threat of infiltration remained a constant challenge along the Line of Control, he was entrusted with the responsibility of guarding a vulnerable stretch between Eagle II Post and Point 4234. It was a demanding responsibility that required alertness at every moment, as the rugged mountains and darkness could provide an advantage to those attempting to cross into the area. Naib Subedar Magar carried out his duty with the determination and alertness expected of a seasoned soldier, remaining prepared to face whatever danger came his way.

The night of 31 August 2013 brought precisely such a challenge. At around 2130 hours, Naib Subedar Magar spotted six heavily armed terrorists moving through the area. The sight of the group immediately turned the quiet night into a dangerous encounter. He understood that allowing the terrorists to move downhill could make it considerably more difficult to stop them. Rather than allowing them to gain an advantage from the terrain, he quickly repositioned himself and prepared to confront them. When the terrorists opened fire, he successfully avoided their initial fire and moved into a position from where he could engage them.

The Gallant Action in Kupwara

As the terrorists attempted to move away, Naib Subedar Bhupal Singh Chhantel Magar displayed remarkable courage and determination. He closed in on the group despite the danger and engaged them with his weapon. In the fierce exchange, he killed one terrorist. The encounter, however, was far from over. Two other terrorists attempted to escape downhill, using the difficult terrain and large boulders for cover. Naib Subedar Magar immediately pursued them. He followed one of them over the boulders, engaged him and injured him. Even after coming under considerable personal risk, he continued the pursuit rather than allowing the terrorist to disappear into the darkness.

The wounded terrorist sought cover behind the boulders, but Naib Subedar Magar remained determined to complete the task. He charged towards the terrorist and eliminated him. His actions that night reflected extraordinary courage and an absolute commitment to the mission entrusted to him. He had confronted a group of heavily armed terrorists in difficult mountainous terrain, moved towards them when they came under fire, and personally eliminated two of the attackers. His determination prevented the terrorists from making an easy escape and helped foil their attempt to infiltrate the area.

For his conspicuous gallantry, exceptional courage and inspiring leadership during the operation, Naib Subedar Bhupal Singh Chhantel Magar was awarded the Kirti Chakra, one of India's highest peacetime gallantry awards. His actions stand as an example of the courage required from soldiers guarding the nation's frontiers, particularly in terrain where every movement can carry enormous risk. His willingness to pursue the enemy despite the danger to his own life reflected a deep sense of duty and an unwavering resolve to protect the area entrusted to him.

The story of Naib Subedar Bhupal Singh Chhantel Magar is ultimately a story of a soldier who refused to allow fear or difficult circumstances to dictate his actions. On that August night in Kupwara, his alertness detected the threat, his courage brought him into the fight, and his determination saw the operation through. Such acts of bravery become part of the proud military history of the units and formations in which they are performed, and they continue to remind future generations of what devotion to duty truly means.

The Honour Post remembers Naib Subedar Bhupal Singh Chhantel Magar with deep respect. His courage in the mountains of Kupwara and his steadfast leadership under fire remain worthy of remembrance and honour. His story belongs not only to his unit and his fellow soldiers, but also to the larger legacy of those who have stood guard in the most challenging corners of the nation.

We remember his courage. We honour his valour. We salute his service.

Lest We Forget.


Remembering Kirti Chakra awardee Naib Subedar Bhupal Singh Chhantel Magar of 5/5 Gorkha Rifles for his bravery in Kupwara.