Who was Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, the Lion of Ladakh who received India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award for Kargil heroics

Maha Vir Chakra recipient Colonel Sonam Wangchuk passed away at the age of 61 after suffering a heart attack at his residence in Leh, Ladakh. His death has drawn tributes from across the country, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the Indian Army mourning the loss of a decorated and courageous officer.

Colonel Wangchuk was honoured with India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award for his exceptional bravery during the Kargil War, particularly in the relatively lesser-known Batalik sector under Operation Vijay. Known for his calm resolve and strong leadership, he played a crucial role in securing strategically important positions in one of the toughest terrains of the conflict.

During the war in 1999, then Major Wangchuk of the Ladakh Scouts led a high-risk mission along the remote Chorbat Ridge, a vital stretch between Kargil and Turtuk. This high-altitude area, rising to nearly 18,000 feet, served as a key logistical link for both regions and had seen significant enemy build-up before hostilities intensified.



On May 28, 1999, he was assigned the task of establishing an observation post at Chorbat La. Accompanied by a Junior Commissioned Officer and three soldiers, his team encountered Pakistani troops during the mission. In the ensuing firefight, two enemy soldiers were killed while others retreated.

Soon after, Wangchuk was directed to reinforce a vulnerable forward post anticipating an attack. Leading a small group through the night, he successfully reached the location and strengthened its defences. The post came under heavy shelling for several hours, followed by an assault that was repelled. Demonstrating initiative, he then led a counter-attack on a nearby enemy position, eliminating multiple opposing soldiers.

In recognition of his courage and leadership during these sustained operations, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra. Two forward posts in the Batalik sector—‘Sonam 1’ and ‘Sonam 2’—were later named in his honour.

Beyond Kargil, Colonel Wangchuk had a distinguished military career. Commissioned into the Assam Regiment, he also served in counter-insurgency operations in Manipur and was part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force deployed in Sri Lanka during Operation Pawan.

In 2017, a documentary titled Lion of Ladakh, released by former President Ram Nath Kovind, highlighted his role in recapturing key positions under extreme conditions.

His passing closes a chapter on a life marked by service, resilience, and quiet heroism—rooted deeply in the spirit of Ladakh he so proudly represented.