15 October 1995 | A Braveheart of 12 Rashtriya Rifles
On 15 October 1995, Guardsman Gopa Kumar R of 12 Rashtriya Rifles was serving as the scout of an impromptu patrol at Sote village in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir. During the patrol, he noticed suspicious movement inside a house. As he and two other personnel approached the location, terrorists opened indiscriminate fire.
Facing the sudden attack, Guardsman Gopa Kumar charged towards the ground floor and engaged one of the terrorists. As the terrorist fell, he attempted to throw a hand grenade at the patrol. Guardsman Gopa Kumar swiftly snatched the grenade from his hand and threw it to a safer location, preventing it from endangering his comrades.
During the exchange of fire, Guardsman Gopa Kumar sustained a grave bullet injury to his left eye, with the bullet becoming embedded in his skull. Despite bleeding profusely, he continued to resist the attackers. He refused evacuation and maintained his resistance, preventing other trapped terrorists from escaping.
His actions demonstrated exceptional courage and an unwavering commitment to the safety of his fellow soldiers. The operation resulted in three terrorists being neutralised and a large quantity of arms and ammunition being recovered.
Guardsman Gopa Kumar made the supreme sacrifice on 15 October 1995. His determination to protect his comrades, even after sustaining a life-threatening injury, remains a powerful example of courage in the line of duty.
In recognition of his conspicuous gallantry, indomitable courage and selfless devotion to duty, he was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra. His actions at Sote village remain a testament to the resolve and sacrifice of soldiers serving in challenging operational conditions.
Guardsman Gopa Kumar R will be remembered for his courage, his decisive action to save his comrades and his supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
Guardsman Gopa Kumar R, The Honour Post pays tribute to your service, courage and supreme sacrifice.
