The Indian Army has initiated termination proceedings against a Special Forces officer missing since 2014. Officials confirmed the officer remained absent without authorization for more than ten years. Therefore, the Army invoked provisions under the Army Act to begin formal dismissal procedures. Authorities cited prolonged absence and complete lack of communication as primary grounds.
Officer Identified as Major Sharyf Bhonsle
The officer has been identified as Major Sharyf Bhonsle from Pune, Maharashtra. He served as an Aide-de-Camp to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh. On August 15, 2014, he proceeded on annual leave but never returned. Consequently, the Army launched internal inquiries to trace his movements.
Major Bhonsle joined the Indian Army in 2009 after graduating from the National Defence Academy. He later served with the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment Special Forces. This unit ranks among the Army’s most elite and operationally sensitive formations. At the time, he handled a prestigious assignment as ADC in Itanagar.
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Travel Abroad Without Mandatory Clearance
Investigators later discovered that he travelled to Spain during his annual leave period. Reports suggested he participated in an international para-jumping event overseas. However, sources indicated he allegedly skipped mandatory Military Intelligence clearance before travelling abroad. Such clearance remains compulsory for all serving officers under Army regulations.
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Traces Found in Spain and Norway
Initially, officials traced his presence in Spain through available records and reports. Later, investigators reportedly found social media activity linking him to Norway. However, despite these leads, authorities failed to establish sustained contact with him. Consequently, the officer remained officially untraceable for over a decade.
The Army examined several possibilities, including illegal immigration or deliberate desertion. Furthermore, authorities coordinated across departments to gather actionable intelligence. Despite these sustained efforts, investigators could not secure his return to service. Therefore, the case gradually evolved into one of prolonged unauthorized absence.
Action Under the Army Act, 1950
After more than ten years, officials initiated action under the Army Act, 1950. They classified the matter as serious misconduct involving extended desertion. Moreover, the Army moved ahead with dismissal proceedings under existing service rules. Officials emphasized that discipline and accountability remain foundational pillars of military service.
One of the Longest Unresolved Absence Cases
Sources described the case as one of the longest unresolved absence matters involving a serving officer. Additionally, officials acknowledged the unusual duration of the officer’s disappearance. However, the Army maintained that institutional procedures must proceed regardless of time elapsed. Administrative formalities now continue as part of the dismissal process.
This development highlights the Army’s strict stance on unauthorized absence. While individual circumstances sometimes remain unclear, institutional discipline cannot remain flexible indefinitely. Therefore, the Army acted to preserve command integrity and operational credibility. The case also underscores the importance of mandatory travel clearances and communication protocols.
Further administrative procedures are currently underway within the military framework. Officials will complete documentation and finalize service termination as per regulations. Meanwhile, authorities continue to treat the case as a matter of record. Ultimately, the Army’s action signals that prolonged absence invites institutional consequences.
