Martyrdom Anniversary of Shaurya Chakra Awardee Captain Tushar Mahajan: A Tribute to His Bravery

Today marks the martyrdom anniversary of Captain Tushar Mahajan, a true hero who laid down his life fighting terrorists in Pampore, Pulwama district of Jammu & Kashmir, on February 21, 2016.

 

Born on April 20, 1989, in Udhampur, J&K, Captain Tushar Mahajan always dreamt of serving the country. He joined the Indian Army’s elite 9 Para (Special Forces) and was known for his bravery and dedication.

 

 

During 2016, Captain Tushar Mahajan and his unit were actively involved in counter terror operations in Jammu & Kashmir. On February 20, 2016, terrorists took over the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) building in Pampore, Pulwama, trapping more than 100 people. Security forces safely evacuated the civilians, but the heavily armed terrorists remained inside.

 

 

Captain Tushar was given the critical task of leading the operation to eliminate the terrorists. The EDI building was massive, covering four floors and multiple rooms, making it a tough battleground. His strategy involved deploying snipers outside to cover windows while his team entered in two groups, securing each floor room by room.

 

 

As his team reached the third floor, they were suddenly ambushed by terrorists hiding inside a room. Without hesitation, Captain Tushar threw grenades and cleared the area, pushing forward. However, another terrorist opened fire, pinning his squad down. Sensing the danger, he moved ahead alone, engaging the enemy with grenades and gunfire.

 

 

In this intense fight, he was shot in the legs but kept fighting, injuring the terrorist. Despite bleeding heavily, he continued his assault until another bullet fatally wounded him. Even in his final moments, he charged at the terrorist and eliminated him before collapsing. He was rushed for medical treatment but succumbed to his injuries.

 

 

Captain Tushar Mahajan’s unmatched bravery and leadership allowed security forces to successfully neutralise all terrorists. For his supreme sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra.

 

 

 

To honour his memory, Udhampur railway station of J&K, was renamed ‘Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Railway Station’. His heroism will always be remembered as a symbol of courage and patriotism.