In a tragic escalation of violence along the Line of Control, Raj Kumar Thapa, a senior officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services, was killed in artillery shelling by Pakistan on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The shelling targeted his residence in Rajouri, a border district that has seen increasing tensions in recent weeks. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed the news via social media, expressing profound grief over the loss of a dedicated public servant.
Thapa, who served as the Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) of Rajouri, was reportedly accompanying Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary on a district tour and participated in an online meeting chaired by Abdullah just a day prior to his death. Abdullah described the incident as “devastating,” highlighting Thapa’s commitment to public service. “We have lost a dedicated officer of the J&K Administration Services. Just yesterday he was accompanying the Deputy CM around the district & attended the online meeting I chaired. Today, the residence of the officer was hit by Pak shelling as they targeted Rajouri town killing our Additional District Development Commissioner Sh Raj Kumar Thappa,” Abdullah stated on X (formerly Twitter).
The shelling occurred around 5:30 AM, as heavy explosions rocked multiple parts of Jammu and Kashmir, causing panic among residents. Thapa was injured in the attack and was rushed to the Government Medical College in Rajouri, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Alongside Thapa, two staff members were also critically injured in the attack.
In addition to Thapa’s death, the shelling resulted in the deaths of at least four other individuals. A two-year-old girl named Aisha Noor and a 35-year-old man, Mohd Shohib, were killed in shelling near an industrial area in Rajouri. Furthermore, a 55-year-old woman, Rashida Bi, lost her life when a mortar shell struck her home in the Mendhar sector of Poonch district. Reports indicate that the violence has left several others injured, with many civilians being treated for their wounds in local hospitals.
This latest incident of cross-border shelling comes amid a broader escalation of hostilities between India and Pakistan, which has seen increased military activity along the northwestern border. Pakistani forces have reportedly been targeting civilian areas, leading to significant damage to homes and properties. Disturbing visuals from the aftermath show destruction and chaos, with emergency sirens sounding across various towns.
Security officials have indicated that the Indian Armed Forces are actively responding to the threats posed by Pakistan, with reports suggesting that key elements of Pakistan’s defense infrastructure have been targeted in counterstrikes. The Ministry of Defence stated, “The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert. Aerial threats are being constantly tracked and neutralized using counter-drone systems.”
In light of the ongoing violence, local authorities have advised civilians in border areas to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. “While there is no need to panic, vigilance and precaution are essential,” the Ministry further advised, urging residents to follow safety instructions.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and grief from various political leaders and the public alike. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ravinder Raina expressed his sorrow, praising Thapa as a courageous officer known for his friendly demeanor. “He served the nation and society with utmost sincerity,” Raina remarked.
As the situation continues to unfold, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. The loss of Raj Kumar Thapa has not only impacted his family and colleagues but also highlights the ongoing human cost of the conflict in the region.
The shelling incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, where civilians often bear the brunt of military confrontations. As the community mourns the loss of a dedicated officer, calls for peace and stability in the region grow louder.
In the wake of this tragedy, many are questioning the effectiveness of existing security measures and the need for renewed diplomatic efforts to address the underlying issues driving the conflict. The hope remains that through dialogue and cooperation, future incidents can be prevented, and the lives of innocent civilians can be safeguarded.
As the day progresses, the people of Rajouri and surrounding areas are left to deal with the immediate consequences of the shelling, while also reflecting on the broader implications of the violence that continues to plague their lives.
In a region marked by turmoil, the loss of Raj Kumar Thapa serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve their communities in the face of danger. His dedication and service will not be forgotten as the community comes together to honor his memory.
