A senior officer of the Jammu and Kashmir administration, Raj Kumar Thappa, Additional District Development Commissioner for Rajouri, was killed in Pakistani shelling on Friday morning. The attack targeted civilian areas in Rajouri and other parts of the Union Territory.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his deep sorrow over the loss, stating that Thappa had participated in an online meeting just hours before the tragic incident.
“Devastating news from Rajouri. We have lost a dedicated officer of the J&K Administration Services. Just yesterday, he was accompanying the Deputy CM around the district and attended an online meeting I chaired. Today, his residence was struck by Pakistani shelling that targeted Rajouri town, killing our Additional District Development Commissioner, Shri Raj Kumar Thappa. I have no words to express my shock and sadness. May his soul rest in peace,” Abdullah posted on X (formerly Twitter).
BJP leader Ravinder Raina also paid tribute, describing Thappa as a “daring and people-friendly officer who served with utmost sincerity.”
Pakistan had launched drone assaults and heavy shelling on civilian settlements in Jammu and Kashmir, damaging homes and places of worship. Multiple videos from affected neighborhoods show destroyed houses and vehicles.
Indian authorities have confirmed that at least several civilians were killed, and others injured. Drones have also been spotted over Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Bhuj, among other regions.
In one instance, an armed drone strike in Ferozepur injured a local family. The injured are receiving medical care, and security forces have sanitized the area.
The Defence Ministry said 26 locations along the International Border and Line of Control have reported drone activity. “The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert. Counter-drone systems have been deployed and are engaging aerial threats. The situation is being closely monitored, and swift action is being taken where necessary.”
Authorities have advised residents, especially in border regions, to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement. While the government has assured that there is no need for panic, citizens are urged to remain vigilant and follow all safety instructions.
