
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 15: National Conference (NC) additional general secretary and former Minister, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering gratitude to its martyrs, stating that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
Visiting the home of martyr Sunil Kumar Bhagat in village Trewa, Sadhotra expressed heartfelt condolences and lauded the bravery of the soldier who laid down his life while fighting Pakistani forces.
Calling Sunil Bhagat’s martyrdom a moment of national pride, Sadhotra highlighted the family’s deep-rooted service to the nation – with the martyr’s father having retired as a Subedar and his two elder brothers currently serving in the Indian Army.
“RS Pura and Bishnah are lands of martyrs,” Sadhotra said, adding that many young men from the region have laid down their lives for the country. He paid homage to the fallen soldiers and hailed the valor and resilience of the border residents, calling them the “second line of defence” for the nation.
While appreciating the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, Sadhotra emphasized that war and terrorism bring only death and destruction. He underscored the challenges faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who often bear the brunt of cross-border hostilities but remain steadfast in supporting the armed forces.
Commending the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during the recent conflict, Sadhotra said Abdullah’s outreach – visiting victim families and displacement shelters despite suspended air services – demonstrated committed governance. He welcomed the Chief Minister’s directive to district administrations to assess damages from Pakistani shelling and ensure medical care for the injured.
Sadhotra also praised the unified stand taken by all political parties across India, who rose above partisan interests to collectively condemn terrorism and support national security.
He was accompanied by Ayoub Malik (provincial secretary), Naresh Bittu (district president), Randhir Singh (district secretary), Rajesh Bakshi, Ashwani Charak (block president), Vishav Singh (YNC secretary), Sandeep Manhas, Ravinder Singh Lucky, Sandeep Singh, Som Nath Taroch, Veer Ji Bhan, Retired SSP Sewak Singh and Jimmy.