Lt Col KS Natt, Injured in 2015 J&K Operation, Dies After Years in Coma

Lt Col KS Natt, who was critically injured during an anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir in 2015, succumbed to his injuries after being in a coma for years. He was honored with full military honors in Jalandhar.

In a somber turn of events, Lieutenant Colonel K S Natt, a brave soldier of the Territorial Army, passed away on Sunday after battling severe injuries sustained during an anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir in November 2015. The news of his demise has left the nation in mourning, with tributes pouring in from all corners.

A Life Dedicated to Service

Lieutenant Colonel Natt, a highly decorated officer, had a distinguished career spanning over two decades. He was initially commissioned as a Short Service Commission Officer in the Brigade of Guards in 1998 and served in the regular Army for 14 years before being relieved in 2012. His unwavering commitment to the nation led him to join the Territorial Army following the completion of his service as a Short Service Commission Officer.

The Fateful Encounter

In November 2015, Lieutenant Colonel Natt was leading a combing operation against terrorists in a densely forested area of Manigah in Kupwara when he encountered a fidayeen, a suicide bomber. Despite being grievously injured, he displayed remarkable courage and advanced towards the terrorist's location, eliminating the threat. His selfless actions saved countless lives and exemplified the highest standards of military valor.

A Battle for Life

Following the encounter, Lieutenant Colonel Natt was evacuated to various medical facilities, including the 168 MH Drugmulla, the 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar, and the Armys Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi. Despite receiving the best possible care, he remained in a coma for over six years, battling against the odds.

A Nation Mourns

The news of Lieutenant Colonel Natt's passing has deeply saddened the nation. Tributes have been pouring in from political leaders, military officials, and citizens alike, all expressing their condolences and recognizing his immense sacrifice. The Patahirri Garrison in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district paid rich tributes to the fallen hero, with officers and troops laying wreaths at the war memorial and observing a two-minute silence in his honor.

A Legacy of Courage

Lieutenant Colonel Natt's indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to duty have left an indelible mark on the nation. His bravery and sacrifice will continue to inspire future generations of soldiers to serve the country with the same unwavering commitment and valor. He is survived by his wife Navpreet Kaur, two daughters -- 19-year-old Guneet and nine-year-old Asmeet -- and his father, an Army veteran himself.

A Father's Pride

In a poignant moment, Lieutenant Colonel Natt's father read out his son's last message, recorded on his mobile phone on WhatsApp and handed over to the family by the Army after the Kupwara incident. The message conveyed his unwavering determination and refusal to give up, even in the face of adversity. His father expressed immense pride in his son's accomplishments and acknowledged that he had fulfilled his duty with honor.

Lieutenant Colonel K S Natt's passing is a profound loss for the nation. His bravery, dedication, and sacrifice will forever be etched in the annals of military history. As the nation mourns the loss of this valiant soldier, his memory will continue to inspire and motivate future generations to serve the country with the same unwavering commitment and valor.