Indian Army Moves Forward with Termination of Long-Missing Special Forces Officer

The Indian Army has initiated the process to dismiss Major Sharyf Bhonsle, a Special Forces officer from Pune, who has been absent without leave since August 2014 and labeled a deserter.

Commissioned in 2009 into the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), Major Bhonsle graduated from the National Defence Academy. At the time of his disappearance, he served as the Aide-De-Camp to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, which is considered a crucial and prominent position.

Records indicate that Major Bhonsle took annual leave but did not return to his duties. Investigations found that he traveled to Spain for an international para-jumping event without the necessary approval from Military Intelligence. Social media activity later traced him to Norway. Despite significant efforts, including a 2016 Apprehension Roll issued to civil authorities, his location has remained unknown for over ten years.

On October 27, 2025, the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army) issued a Show Cause Notice, labeling Major Bhonsle's absence as serious misconduct under the Army Act, 1950. This notice, served at his Pune family home, states that retaining him in service is undesirable. He has 30 days to reply; otherwise, his commission will be terminated without further proceedings.

This action is a pivotal move in resolving a longstanding issue within military ranks since 2014, underscoring the Army's dedication to upholding discipline and accountability.