Assam Rifles pays tribute to heroes of Lodhi Basti Operation
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 24 2026: The Assam Rifles organised a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Haflong in Dima Hasao district of Assam to honour the supreme sacrifice of Colonel TS Mahil, SM (P), and Lance Naik Kushal Singh, SM (P), who laid down their lives during a counter-insurgency operation in Lodhi Basti on July 24, 1994 .

According to a release issued by IGAR (South), Colonel TS Mahil, accompanied by his escort, had departed from the camp at around 10:50 am for an intelligence task in Lodhi Basti.

During the mission, he visited a church and met the village chief before stopping at his residence.

While returning from the village, their vehicle was ambushed by NSCN terrorists near a speed breaker on the outskirts of the village.

Despite facing overwhelming odds, Colonel Mahil and Lance Naik Kushal Singh displayed exceptional courage and fought the insurgents, disregarding their personal safety.

Lance Naik Kushal Singh sustained a fatal bullet injury to his neck and succumbed to his injuries at the spot.

Colonel Mahil sustained severe bullet injuries and was evacuated to a civil hospital by a second escort, where he later succumbed to excessive blood loss.

In recognition of their gallantry and supreme sacrifice, both were awarded the Sena Medal (Posthumously).

The commemoration began with senior officials laying wreaths and paying homage to the martyrs.

They also recounted the valour and sacrifice of the two personnel, exhorting all ranks to draw inspiration from their courage and dedication.

More than 120 Assam Rifles personnel, including senior officials, participated in the ceremony and paid tribute to the martyrs with a Guard of Honour.

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