The border village of Kallar in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district is mourning the death of Havildar Mohd Iqbal, who lost his life in a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Nagaland’s Chumoukedima district while serving with the Assam Rifles. The blast occurred during an operational movement near Shokhuvi on July 13 and also injured five others, including four security personnel and a civilian.
Iqbal had recently returned to duty after visiting his family and had planned to come home again in September. His mortal remains are expected to reach his native village, where he will receive full military honours.
Read More: Army Porter Camp Washed Away Near Arunachal’s Darmu Pass
Key Facts
- Soldier: Havildar Mohd Iqbal
- Native Place: Kallar village, Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir
- Posting: Assam Rifles, Nagaland
- Incident: Suspected IED blast
- Location: Near Shokhuvi, Chumoukedima district, Nagaland
- Date of Incident: July 13
- Casualties: One soldier killed, five others injured
- Honours: Full military funeral in native village
Havildar Mohd Iqbal Killed in Nagaland
Havildar Mohd Iqbal lost his life in a suspected IED blast while serving with the Assam Rifles in Nagaland. The explosion took place near Shokhuvi in Chumoukedima district during an operational movement on July 13.
The blast reportedly targeted an Assam Rifles vehicle. Besides Iqbal, four security personnel and one civilian sustained injuries in the incident.
Family Awaits Final Journey
Iqbal belonged to Kallar village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. He had returned to duty only a little over a month after spending time with his family.
According to his relatives, he had promised to return home in September to help with the annual grass-cutting season. Instead, his family is now preparing for his final journey.
Authorities expect his mortal remains to reach his native village on Thursday. The armed forces will accord him full military honours during his last rites.
Village Pays Tribute
The news of Iqbal’s death has left the entire village in mourning. Friends, neighbours, and relatives gathered at his home to offer condolences to the grieving family.
His father, Choudhary Kalu, recalled his son’s last promise to return home soon. Meanwhile, former village sarpanch Noor Mohammad, who is also Iqbal’s uncle, described the loss as both personal and national. He also urged authorities to extend full support to the bereaved family.
Soldier Leaves Behind Family
Havildar Mohd Iqbal is survived by his wife and three sons, who study in Classes 12, 8, and 6.
His sacrifice has drawn tributes from across the country. Assam Rifles Director General Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera also honoured the fallen soldier and expressed condolences to his family.
The Assam Rifles said all ranks of the force salute Havildar Mohd Iqbal for making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
Question & Answer
Q: Who was killed in the Nagaland IED blast?
A: Havildar Mohd Iqbal of the Assam Rifles lost his life during the blast.
Q: Where did the incident occur?
A: The blast occurred near Shokhuvi in Chumoukedima district, Nagaland.
Q: When did the attack happen?
A: The suspected IED blast took place on July 13.
Q: How many people were injured?
A: Five people, including four security personnel and one civilian, sustained injuries.
Q: Where will the soldier be laid to rest?
A: He will be laid to rest with full military honours in his native village of Kallar in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir.
Location Context
Nagaland is a strategically important state in Northeast India, where security forces regularly conduct operations to maintain peace and safeguard border and internal security. Assam Rifles plays a key role in protecting the region.