Who Is Colonel Sonam Wangchuk? Kargil War Hero Dies At 61

Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (Retd), a highly respected war hero of the Kargil war, passed away early on Friday after suffering a heart attack. Known as the ‘Lion of Ladakh’, he died at 61, at his home in Leh.

A Key Role In Kargil War

Wangchuk was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his bravery during the 1999 Kargil War. At the time, he was a Major in the Indian Army. He led Ladakh Scouts troops on a difficult mission across the icy heights of Chorbat La on May 30, 1999. Despite having no artillery support, his team captured an important position, marking one of India’s early successes in the war.

Final Days And Sudden Passing

His brother-in-law, Dr Sonam Angchuk, said Wangchuk had been feeling unwell for a few days. “His father expired this January. So,

he had come here [Leh, Ladakh] around March 25th for the prayers and other rituals we do. I now feel that since many relatives and friends were visiting him to express their condolences, he might be under stress,” he told the Indian Express.

“For the last few days, he had been complaining of chest pain. Yesterday, about 2.30 pm, I took him to the Army hospital, where he underwent ECG, ultrasound and other tests. The test results were normal. He was feeling fine. We came back home and were supposed to go for an Echocardiogram today. Last evening, I gave him a few muscle relaxants and then we went to sleep. Early morning, today, the person who gives him his morning cup of hot water/tea went to his room and found that he was not responsive. He raised an alarm. We all rushed to Sonam’s room and found that he was no more,” he added.

Family And Last Rites

Wangchuk is survived by his wife, Padma Angmo, a civil servant posted in Delhi, and their son, Riggyal Otvum, who works in Bengaluru. His mother lives in Leh. According to the family, Buddhist rituals will be performed before a date for the last rites is decided.

Early Life And Service

Born on January 27, 1964, Wangchuk studied at Modern School in New Delhi. He was active in sports and took part in cross-country running. He later left his studies at Sri Venkateswara College to join the Army in 1987 through the Assam Regiment. He was later deputed to the Ladakh Scouts, also known as the ‘Snow Warriors’.

The Ladakh Scouts played a crucial role in the Kargil War and were honoured with a Unit Citation for their service.