Leh, Sept 16: In a moving tribute to Inspector Tsewang Namgyal, the Mahila Congress Ladakh, led by Stanzin Dolkar, remembered the fallen hero as a symbol of bravery, courage, and selflessness. Inspector Namgyal, who tragically lost his life during a search operation on the Indus River, has left a deep void in the hearts of the Ladakhi people.
A fearless officer who served the nation with distinction, Inspector Namgyal was known for his unwavering commitment to duty. His contributions during various critical events, including fighting militancy in Kashmir, assisting during the 2014 Kashmir floods, and supporting the Amarnath Yatra, were widely recognized. He also played a vital role during the 1999 Kargil war before joining the police force and served tirelessly during disasters in Ladakh.
Stanzin Dolkar, in her tribute, highlighted that despite his exceptional service, Inspector Namgyal was never after recognition or medals. Instead, he was driven by his passion for serving his country and his people. However, with his cremation on September 13th, several unanswered questions have come to the fore, raising concerns about the circumstances leading to his death.
The Mahila Congress Ladakh has raised several concerns as to Why was Inspector Namgyal, already on an extensive assignment, redirected to this high-risk mission, particularly when another team was designated for the search in Khaltse? Who was responsible for overseeing the mission, and did they inspect the search site before the tragic event? Why did Namgyal’s team navigate the dangerous Rapid 4+ stretch of the Indus River using paddles rather than proper oars? What was the justification for this risky approach? Why was the search conducted in the river several days after the drowning incident, when bodies are typically found along the shore? Why were advanced search methods like drones not utilized, given the significant budget allocated by the UT Government? Why was there no backup support such as a kayak or rescue raft to ensure the team’s safety? Why was Inspector Namgyal frequently assigned to hazardous operations, seemingly due to his fearless nature and refusal to decline?
Dolkar stressed that these questions need answers not only to honor Inspector Namgyal’s memory but also to prevent similar tragedies in the future. She called for improved safety protocols, adequate rest, and proper supervision for officers involved in high-risk missions.
Inspector Namgyal was posthumously awarded a State Honor, a recognition that his family and the Ladakhi people deeply appreciate. However, Stanzin Dolkar emphasized that this tribute must go beyond medals. His family, who lost a beloved son, brother, and hero, deserves continued support and compensation for his outstanding service to the nation.
Dolkar also called for better safety measures, adequate rest, and proper supervision for officers who undertake high-risk operations. “Our small population cannot afford to lose many more heroes like Inspector Tsewang Namgyal,” she remarked, urging the administration to learn from this tragedy and ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
In closing, Stanzin Dolkar voiced concerns about how Ladakhi personnel are treated by non-local higher officials, suggesting that their dedication and honesty are often taken for granted. She called for greater respect and dignity for those who serve sincerely across all departments.
As the community mourns the loss of Inspector Tsewang Namgyal, the Mahila Congress Ladakh hopes that these unanswered questions will be addressed, ensuring that his sacrifice leads to meaningful change in the way such missions are conducted.
