Leh, Sept 03: In a tragic turn of events, Inspector Tsewang Namgyal of the Ladakh Union Territory Disaster Response Force (UTDRF) made the ultimate sacrifice while leading a critical search operation in the Indus River near Khaltsi on Saturday. The beloved officer lost his life when the search boat he and his team were using capsized amidst the river’s powerful currents. Three other members of the rescue team sustained injuries during the incident.
Inspector Namgyal and his team were in the midst of an operation to recover the body of a 16-year-old girl who had drowned in the Indus River on Thursday. Despite the dangers posed by the river’s swift waters, Inspector Namgyal pressed forward, leading his team with courage and resolve, as he had done countless times before. Unfortunately, the unforgiving currents left them with no chance to regain control when their boat overturned.
The passing of Inspector Namgyal marks a profound loss, not only for the Ladakh police and the UTDRF but for the entire community. Known for his fearless spirit and unmatched dedication, Inspector Namgyal had successfully led five rescue operations in the same treacherous waters of the Indus River over the past three months alone. His reputation as a tireless, compassionate officer was reflected in the countless lives he had touched and saved throughout his career.
Following the tragic incident, Inspector Namgyal’s mortal remains were transported to the district police lines, where a solemn tribute was paid by Ladakh Police, members of the Hill Council, and the local community. Chief Executive Councillor of the LAHDC Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson, along with the residents of Leh, gathered in large numbers to honor the fallen hero. The air was thick with grief as friends, family, and colleagues remembered a man whose life was a testament to bravery and selflessness.
“He was a true hero whose passion for his work and compassion for people defined him,” a close friend and colleague shared, their voice heavy with emotion. “In every operation, he embodied the spirit of service and sacrifice. Ladakh has lost a great son.”
In a solemn tribute, the mortal remains of Inspector Namgyal were brought to the District Police Lines in Leh, where the Ladakh Police, local dignitaries, and hundreds of residents gathered to bid a final farewell to their fallen hero. Among the mourners were Advocate Tashi Gyalson, Chief Executive Councilor of the Hill Council, and BJP UT Ladakh President Phunchok Stanzin, both of whom expressed deep sorrow over the loss. The emotional atmosphere was palpable as wreaths were laid and prayers offered for the eternal peace of the brave officer.
Colleagues and friends of Inspector Namgyal spoke of him as a man defined by his courage and compassion. “He was a true hero,” one friend shared, “whose passion for his work and love for the people of Ladakh made him stand out. His loss is not just a loss for his family but for the entire region.” Another colleague echoed the sentiment, adding, “He embodied the spirit of service and sacrifice. Ladakh has lost a great son today.”
In his message of condolence, BJP President Phunchok Stanzin paid tribute to Inspector Namgyal’s valor, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the entire Union Territory. “The courage, dedication, and selfless service of Inspector Tsewang Namgyal and his team will forever be remembered with gratitude and respect,” Stanzin stated. “Our hearts are with his family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time.”
The wreath-laying ceremony saw officers and officials from the Ladakh police come together to honor their colleague. They offered prayers not only for his soul but also for his bereaved family, asking for strength to endure this irreparable loss.
“Late Inspector Tsewang Namgyal (1971-2024) leaves behind a legacy of bravery and service that will not be forgotten. The UTDRF and Ladakh as a whole now grieve the loss of a true hero, whose sacrifice in the line of duty reflects the highest ideals of public service” the UTDRF Ladakh said in a statement.
