Body of Indian Soldier Found 38 Years after He Went Missing

The body of an army jawan was found in an old bunker in Siachen, 38 years after he went missing. 

The body has been identified as that of Chandrashekhar Harbola of 19 Kumaon Regiment. Harbola was part of ‘Operation Meghdoot.’

‘Operation Meghdoot’ was launched in 1984 by the Indian Armed Forces to capture Siachen Glacier to prevent Pakistan from capturing it. 

While Harbola’s team were patrolling they got caught in an avalanche. The bodies of 15 soldiers were recovered however Harbola’s body along with a few others couldn't be found. 

Now, years later, a patrol party of Rajasthan Rifles came across a shelter that apparently had been destroyed by an avalanche.

They found the soldier’s remains, torn clothes and an army disc. 

Harbola’s remains will reach his wife Shanti Devi’s place who stays in Haldani’s Saraswati Vihar colony. She last saw him in January 1984 and he promised her that he’ll return soon. 

According to his wife he prioritised his work more than his family. She said that they were married for nine years and she was 28 at that time. The elder daughter was four while the younger daughter was one and a half. 

Lance Naik Chandrashekhar, a resident of Dwarahat in Almora, had enlisted in the army in 1975.

Haldwani sub-collector Manish Kumar and tehsildar Sanjay Kumar, who reached Harbola's house, said his last rites will be performed with full military honours.