Nation mourns as rifleman Sunil Kumar returns home wrapped in the Tricolour

The mortal remains of Rifleman Sunil Kumar, a brave soldier of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, were brought back to his native village with full military honours on Sunday, May 11. His final journey drew an overwhelming sea of mourners—grieving families, teary-eyed villagers, fellow soldiers, and senior officials—who gathered to pay their last respects to the fallen hero.

Rifleman Kumar lost his life while manning a forward post during intense enemy shelling, a grim reminder of the relentless dangers faced by troops stationed along the nation’s volatile frontlines. As his coffin, draped in the tricolour, was carried through the streets, chants of “Shaheed Sunil Kumar Amar Rahe” resounded through the air, turning the village into a poignant blend of sorrow and patriotic fervour.

The solemn military procession, complete with a ceremonial gun salute, underscored the deep respect and gratitude the nation holds for soldiers who make the ultimate sacrifice. Thousands from nearby towns and villages poured in to attend the final rites, their presence a powerful testament to the unity and reverence shared across the region for the martyred soldier.

Political and social leaders across party lines expressed their condolences on various platforms, hailing Kumar's courage while also calling for strengthened border security amid escalating threats along the frontlines.