Diplomat Correspondent
Likir,DD, In the stillness of Likir’s high mountains, amidst the presence of uniformed men and grieving villagers, Ladakh paid its final respects to one of its most valiant sons, Naib Sub. Chhering Mutup, Ashoka Chakra awardee, whose life was marked by service, humility, and uncommon courage.
The wreath-laying ceremony, held with full military honours, drew a solemn gathering of civil and military dignitaries, spiritual leaders, monks, and local residents, each bearing silent tribute to a man whose legacy will long outlive the sound of rifles or ceremonial drums.
Present on the occasion were Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, Chairman/CEC LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson, Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Director General of Police S.D. Jamwal, Councillor Likir Smanla Dorje, and President of the Ladakh Buddhist Association, Tsering Dorjay Lakruk.
Senior army officials including Lieutenant General Hitesh Bhalla, UYSM, SC, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, 14 Corps, Brigadier Rinchen Dorje, Commandent officer LSRC Col. Kamal Pandey, Subedar Major Tashi Zangpo LSRC along with commanding officers from other battalions, all stood in solidarity with the bereaved family, honouring the soldier who had once stood among them.
From the veteran and welfare community, Colonel Neema, Director, Rajya Sainik Board Ladakh, and Honorary Captain Sonam Morup, President, Ex-Servicemen League Ladakh, joined in the ceremony, paying homage to a fellow soldier whose life continues to inspire generations of servicemen.
Prominent dignitaries, including the LG, CEC, Chief Secretary, DGP, Councillor Smanla and others from the civil and military administration, laid wreaths at the feet of the late soldier, a gesture of collective gratitude for a lifetime of service.
The Ladakh Scouts, to whom Late Chhering Mutup dedicated much of his life, paraded in his honour, their final salute echoing through the mountains as a mark of deep respect.
Local monks led the Desmon prayers, their chants blending with the mountain breeze, offering peace to the departed soul and strength to those left behind.
Also present were SSP Leh Shruti Arora, ADC Ghulam Mohammad, SDM Likir Gyurmet Namgyal, Tehsildar Saspol Sajjad Hussain, ASP Leh Rigzin Sandup, SHO Leh Inspector Sonam Rigzin, and SHO Khaltsi Jamyang Namgyal, along with hundreds of villagers and ex-servicemen.
In Naib Sub. Chhering Mutup’s passing, Ladakh has lost more than a soldier , it has lost a symbol of strength and sacrifice.
As the bugle called its last note and the tricolour stood firm against the Ladakhi sky, the message was clear: his courage will be remembered, his service honoured, and his memory held close in the hearts of a grateful land.DD