Army soldier dies in landmine explosion near LoC

Jammu: An Army soldier died in a landmine blast along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, officials said.
Reports said the slain soldier has been identified as Havildar V Subbaiah Varikunta of the 25 Rashtriya Rifles. The soldier, who was posted in the Saujiyan sector of Mandi, accidentally stepped on a landmine, which exploded, leading to his death. The police have registered a case in this regard, and an investigation has been initiated.
Meanwhile, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the army’s White Knight Corps expressed condolences to the bereaved family.
“GOC White Knight Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to the braveheart, Havildar V Subbaiah Varikunta of 25 RR, who made the supreme sacrifice during an area domination patrol in the general area of Thanedar Tekri, Poonch, on 09 Dec 2024, following a mine blast,” the army posted on X, adding, “Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We stand steadfastly with them in this hour of grief.”