Jammu, May 11 — Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa, who lost his life in Pakistani shelling, was cremated with full state honours on Sunday, with senior political leaders, officials, and hundreds of mourners paying their final respects.
Thapa, the Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) of Rajouri, was killed early Saturday when a mortar shell landed in the residential compound of his home in Rajouri town. His mortal remains were brought to his residence in Roop Nagar, on the outskirts of Jammu, before being taken to a nearby cremation ground.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and Leader of Opposition in the J&K Assembly Sunil Sharma were among those present at the cremation ceremony.
Both leaders joined the grieving community in honouring Thapa’s memory and service.
“He was known for his dedication, competence, unwavering professionalism and people-friendly approach,” said Choudhary. “His departure is a big loss for Jammu and Kashmir.”
The deputy chief minister, who also visited Thapa’s residence a day earlier, expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the bereaved family. “I spent two days with him recently during my tour of Rajouri-Poonch districts to assess the situation amid Pakistani shelling. The government stands firmly with his family in this hour of grief.”
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also visited the family and offered condolences, describing Dr. Thapa as a distinguished public servant whose efforts were vital in advancing the development goals of the region.
“Dr. Thapa’s contribution to J&K’s development is immense,” Sinha said.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and numerous admirers in this hour of grief. I pray for peace for the departed soul.”
Sunil Sharma, senior BJP leader and the Assembly’s opposition head, echoed those sentiments.
“He will be remembered for his professionalism and dedication,” Sharma said.
Officials said Thapa’s sacrifice, along with those of others who died during the recent four-day conflict between India and Pakistan, will not be forgotten.
“They will be remembered forever,” Choudhary told reporters.
The cremation was marked by military honours, as the state bid farewell to a man remembered not only for his service but for the values he stood for.
