JAMMU, Apr 18: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday inaugurated the Dr Raj Kumar Thapa Memorial Museum and Library in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, dedicated to the legacy of the late Additional District Development Commissioner.
Thapa lost his life on May 10 last year when a Pakistani artillery shell struck his residential quarters in the border district during unprovoked shelling linked to Operation Sindoor. He is survived by his wife, a doctor, and two children.
Paying tribute, the Lieutenant Governor recalled Thapa’s selfless service and unwavering commitment to public welfare, stating that the memorial would serve as a source of inspiration for future generations, an official spokesperson said.
On the occasion, a documentary showcasing Thapa’s life and service was also screened.
Family members of Thapa, along with senior officials from the security forces, police, and civil administration, attended the event.
A 2001-batch Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer, Thapa, aged 54, was widely respected for his professional dedication and people-friendly approach.
He had been posted as ADDC Rajouri in March last year and played a key role in managing the situation in Badhaal village, where 17 members of three families, including 13 children, died under mysterious circumstances after falling ill between December 7 and January 19.
Before his posting in Rajouri, he served as Officer on Special Duty to former Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand from 2009 to 2014. He also held several key positions, including Mission Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Skill Development Mission and Special Secretary in the Labour and Employment Department. (Agency)
