May 17 : It is hard to believe that Dr. Rajkumar Thapa — a man of charisma, compassion, and unwavering commitment to public service — is no longer with us. Known for his noble heart, ever-welcoming smile, and steadfast dedication to the underprivileged, Dr. Thapa laid down his life for the nation during the Indo-Pak conflict on the 10th of May, 2025.
As I write these words, my heart is heavy, yet filled with pride. I remember my dearest friend, Dr. Rajkumar Thapa — a brave soul whose ultimate sacrifice became an eternal flame of honor, courage, and patriotism. He was not just a friend but a brother, someone who laughed with us in peace and stood tall for us during times of trial. When the call of duty came, he did not hesitate. With faith in his heart and strength in his arms, he faced the danger head-on, carrying the hope that his sacrifice would secure peace for those he loved.
Even in death, he teaches us how to be brave — to stand for truth, and to live not just for ourselves but for our people and our nation. His memory lives on in every sunrise, in the songs of the wind, and in the silent prayers of a grateful Bharat.
His martyrdom was not a loss, but a legacy. He became immortal the moment he fell — not in defeat, but in glory. He wrote his name across the sky with his blood, reminding us all that freedom carries a price — a price that some, like him, pay with their lives.
Dr. Thapa sustained fatal injuries from a splinter shell during early morning shelling in Rajouri around 5:30 AM on that fateful morning of May 10, 2025. The devastating news reached me through my brother-in-law, Dr. Javed Iqbal, Deputy Superintendent at Medical College, Rajouri.
My association with Dr. Thapa began in 2003, when he served as Undersecretary in the Social Welfare Department and I was Secretary of the Gujjar and Bakarwal Advisory Board. Our paths crossed frequently in departments such as PWD, Revenue, Food & Supplies, and Education. He also held key positions, including Private Secretary to the Social Welfare Minister and Special Assistant to the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Tara Chand.
Our most impactful collaboration occurred in the Education Department, where we worked together to uplift government schools, promote over 15,000 employees from Class VI to Joint Director level, and regularize more than 40,000 RET teachers. Dr. Thapa’s commitment to social justice and his deep empathy for farmers, laborers, and marginalized communities — including SCs, STs, and OBCs — defined his approach to public service.
Later, he served with distinction as RTO Kathua, Special Secretary in the Department of Science & Technology, and finally as Additional District Development Commissioner, Rajouri. His sincere efforts and dedication were widely acknowledged — not only by colleagues but also by the Deputy Chief Minister Shri Surinder Choudhary. The District Development Council of Rajouri, under the chairmanship of Advocate Naseem Javed Choudhary, paid rich tribute to Dr. Thapa. All DDC members of Rajouri, including former Minister Shabir Ahmed Khan, recalled his significant contributions.
Dr. Thapa’s martyrdom highlights the crucial yet often underappreciated role of Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Service officers. His passing was mourned across civil society — by friends, colleagues, and the communities he served with such sincerity.
I sincerely urge the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to officially declare Dr. Rajkumar Thapa a Martyr of the Indo-Pak Conflict. Let his legacy be permanently honored by naming a degree college in Jammu after him. I also call upon the press and media to shed light on his story and help organize a memorial program in his name.
As I pen these final lines, I remember not just an officer, but a friend who lived and died for his people and his nation. He was a brother in peace, a pillar in war, and a flame of hope when times were dark. His sacrifice is not a loss but a beacon — a symbol of what it truly means to serve selflessly.
Shaheed kabhi marta nahi — woh dilon mein zinda rehta hai.
May the Almighty grant strength and patience to his bereaved family — especially:
1. Shri Durga Dass Thapa (Father)
2. Dr. Meenakshi (Wife)
3. Ms. Meersa (Daughter)
4. Mr. Aahiviartak (Son)
5. Dr. Sunita & Dr. Sanjay Basin (Sister & Brother-in-law)
Dr. Thapa’s sacrifice will never be forgotten by the people of Bharat.
