Senior J&K official killed in Pakistani firing in Rajouri, confirms CM Omar Abdullah

KATHMANDU: A senior official of the Jammu and Kashmir administration was killed in cross-border firing from Pakistan in the Rajouri district, Indian authorities have claimed.

According to Indian media reports, the deceased has been identified as Raj Kumar Thapa, the Additional Divisional Commissioner posted in Rajouri.

The shelling reportedly targeted Thapa’s residence directly, resulting in his tragic death. No additional casualties or damages have been reported so far.

The Indian armed forces have responded to the Pakistani assault, according to official sources.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed the news on Saturday via social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing deep sorrow over the loss.

“A tragic update from Rajouri. We have lost a dedicated and sincere officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services. Just yesterday, he was with the Deputy Chief Minister in the district and attended an online meeting chaired by me,” the Chief Minister posted.

According to CM Abdullah, the shelling was intense and directly hit the home of the late officer. The incident is believed to be linked to rising tensions between the two nations, particularly the military operations currently underway on both sides.

Reports indicate the escalation may be connected to India’s recently launched military initiative, Operation Sindoor, and Pakistan’s counter-offensive, Bunyan-ul-Marsous. International sources suggest Pakistan has begun targeting Indian air force installations and missile storage sites in response to Indian operations.

The situation remains tense in the border regions, with both nations increasing security measures and military readiness.