Indian Army Havildar on Leave Saves Man from Self-Immolation in Kurukshetra

Kurukshetra, Haryana | Havildar Anil Kumar of the 23rd Jat Regiment, rescued a distressed man attempting self-immolation near Thanesar Railway Station

Kurukshetra, Haryana | Havildar Anil Kumar of the 23rd Jat Regiment, currently posted at the JAT Regimental Centre in Bareilly, rescued a distressed man attempting self-immolation near Thanesar Railway Station this week, officials and eyewitnesses confirmed.

The life-saving intervention by Havildar Kumar, while off duty and home on leave, highlights the Indian Army’s ethos of service before self and underscores the enduring commitment of its personnel to public welfare—even beyond the battlefield.

According to local media and police, the victim—reportedly driven to desperation by a fraudulent bank loan scheme—was dousing himself with a flammable substance when Kumar spotted the incident. Reacting instantly, the off-duty havildar rushed to the scene, subdued the flames, and ensured the man received urgent medical care.

Eyewitnesses described Kumar’s actions as heroic. “He didn’t hesitate for a second. His quick response saved a life and set an example for all of us,” said Praveen Singh, a bystander who witnessed the incident.

The Indian Army’s Directorate General of Public Information (@adgpi) and other defence officials praised Havildar Kumar across social media platforms, celebrating his humanity and sense of duty. A message that went viral read: “Soldier Never Off Duty, Humanity First, Always.”

🫡“𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗢𝗳𝗳 𝗗𝘂𝘁𝘆, 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁, 𝗔𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀.” 🇮🇳

In an inspiring act of compassion, Havildar Anil Kumar of 23 JAT, presently posted with the JAT Regimental Centre, #Bareilly, displayed courage and humanity while on leave in… pic.twitter.com/cuTiiDTEdr

— SuryaCommand_IA (@suryacommand) July 17, 2025

Military leaders also weighed in, calling the act a testament to the Army’s core values of courage, responsibility, and selfless service. “Havildar Kumar’s conduct reflects the highest traditions of the JAT Regiment and the Indian Army,” a regimental spokesperson stated.

Local authorities have launched an investigation into the bank fraud that prompted the attempted suicide, vowing to tighten oversight and better support victims of financial scams. Meanwhile, plans are underway for a community event in Kurukshetra to formally recognize Havildar Kumar’s bravery.

The rescue has sparked widespread appreciation from citizens and officials alike, with many asserting that acts like Kumar’s reinforce faith in the moral commitment of India’s soldiers. As the community rallies to honour their hometown hero, the message is clear: even off duty, a soldier’s vow to serve never expires.