In a tragic incident highlighting the ongoing tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Raj Kumar Thappa was killed on Saturday, May 10, 2025, when a mortar shell fired from across the border struck his residence in Rajouri. The shell hit at approximately 5:30 AM, resulting in Thappa succumbing to injuries shortly after being evacuated to a hospital.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his profound shock and grief over Thappa's death, confirming the loss in a heartfelt post on the social media platform X. Abdullah noted that just hours before the tragedy, Thappa had attended an online meeting with him and had been accompanying the Deputy Chief Minister around the district the previous day. "Devastating news from Rajouri. 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. I’ve no words to express my shock & sadness at this terrible loss of life. May his soul rest in peace," Abdullah wrote.
The incident has sparked outrage and sorrow across the region, with many calling for an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued Jammu and Kashmir for decades. Mehbooba Mufti, the leader of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), also expressed her condolences on social media, emphasizing the tragic impact of such violence on innocent civilians. "Deeply saddened to hear about the tragic loss of one of our brave officers - Raj Kumar Thappa, Additional DC in Rajouri, due to shelling from across the border. War is always a tragedy, but it becomes even more heartbreaking when innocent civilians, including children, bear the brunt of the mindless violence. This cycle of retaliation has already cost far too many precious lives and shows no signs of ending. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May his soul rest in peace," Mufti stated.
The shelling incident is part of a broader escalation in violence in the region, as Pakistani military spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry claimed that India had targeted three military bases in response. This has led to increased tensions and military activity along the Line of Control, where both Indian and Pakistani forces have exchanged fire frequently. Following the attack that killed Thappa, two additional individuals lost their lives, and three others were injured in the ongoing shelling in Rajouri.
Residents of various cities across Jammu and Kashmir reported waking up to loud explosions, indicating a significant uptick in artillery fire. Many were injured as artillery shells and suspected drones struck residential areas, raising concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Raj Kumar Thappa, who received his MBBS degree from Jammu Government Medical College in 1989, was known for his dedication to public service. His untimely death has sparked a renewed discussion about the safety of officials and civilians in conflict zones, with many calling for more robust measures to protect those serving in administrative roles.
As the situation continues to unfold, the local government and security forces are under pressure to respond effectively to the ongoing violence while ensuring the safety of civilians. The loss of Raj Kumar Thappa serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of the longstanding conflict in the region.
The community in Rajouri is now mourning the loss of a respected leader who dedicated his life to serving the people. The tragedy has resonated deeply with locals, who are calling for peace and an end to the violence that has claimed too many lives.
In light of these events, the Jammu and Kashmir administration faces a critical juncture. The need for dialogue and conflict resolution has never been more pressing, as the cycle of violence continues to wreak havoc on the lives of countless individuals. The government’s response to this incident will be closely watched, as citizens hope for a future where such tragedies become a thing of the past.
