Agniveer Prayash Gurung of the Indian Army passed away after an Army vehicle met with an accident near Junglibaba Mandir Road in Bagdogra on Thursday. The vehicle belonged to the 6/1 Gorkha Rifles regiment.
According to Army sources, the accident occurred during a routine movement when the military vehicle lost control and veered off the road. The injured soldiers were immediately rushed to the Bengdubi Army Hospital. Unfortunately, despite receiving emergency medical attention, Prayash Gurung succumbed to his injuries.
Two other Army personnel — Nb Subedar Tirth Bahadur Thapa and Lance Naik Varun Thapa, who was driving the vehicle — sustained injuries in the crash and are currently under treatment. Their condition is reported to be stable.
Prayash Gurung hailed from Lower Lama Gaon under Relling Gram Panchayat in the Bijanbari block of Darjeeling district. A proud son of the soil, he had completed his schooling at Vidya Jyoti Academy, Bijanbari, and joined the Indian Army as part of the Agnipath recruitment scheme under the designation “Agniveer.”
The tragic news has plunged his village into grief, as community members, local leaders, and school staff expressed sorrow over the untimely loss of a promising youth. “He was disciplined, humble, and deeply motivated to serve the country. We are devastated by his passing,” said a former teacher from Vidya Jyoti Academy.
Locals and ex-servicemen associations have also offered condolences and extended solidarity to the bereaved family. Calls have been made to ensure a respectful final tribute to the departed soldier.
The incident brings renewed attention to the risks faced by soldiers not just on the battlefield but also during logistics and transit operations. The Indian Army is expected to carry out an internal investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.
As per defence protocol, the mortal remains of Agniveer Prayash Gurung will be handed over to the family with full military honors. The date of the final rites is expected to be announced soon.
