Ex-Indian Army Officer Killed In Gaza: Who Is Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale?
Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale (Retd), the Indian national who was working with the United Nations (UN) as a security service coordinator, was killed after the vehicle he was traveling in came under attack in Gaza’s Rafah region.
The United Nations has launched a probe to look into the tragic killing of ex-Indian army officer, in what is the UN’s first international casualty since the Israel-Hamas conflict began last year.
The Ministry of External Affairs expressed its condolences on Wednesday for the death of Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale. The MEA stated that India’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, along with its missions in Tel Aviv and Ramallah, is providing full assistance for the repatriation of Waibhav Anil Kale’s mortal remains to India. They are also in contact with relevant authorities regarding the investigation into the incident.
Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said, “We also express our apologies and condolences to the Government and people of India. We appreciate the contribution that India has made.”
The deceased’s vehicle was attacked by shots fired from what it believes was an Israeli tank. Another DSS staffer traveling in the vehicle was injured.
Col. Waibhav Anil Kale: A journey of courage and commitment
Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale, aged 46, hailed from Nagpur and completed his schooling at Somalwar High School. He later pursued higher studies, obtaining a BA degree in Humanities from Jawaharlal Nehru University and a Diploma of Education in Senior Defense Management from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore, as detailed on his LinkedIn profile.
Coming from a family dedicated to military service, Colonel Kale’s career spanned over two decades in the armed forces. His brother, Group Captain Vishal Kale, served in the Indian Air Force, while his cousin Colonel Amey Kale served in the army, and his brother-in-law, Wing Commander Prasant Karde (Retd), served in the air force.
Kale joined the Indian Army in 1998 and held prestigious roles such as commanding the 11 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment in Kashmir and serving as an instructor at the army’s Infantry School in Mhow. He contributed significantly to counterintelligence and counterterrorism operations, serving in the northeastern regions and the challenging terrain of Siachen Glacier.
Mugdha Ashok Kale, Waibhav’s aunt, expressed her deep shock and disbelief. “When we heard about Waibhav, it was a big shock. We still can’t believe he is no more. We hadn’t seen much of him in recent times, but it feels like he is still with us in spirit. Even though the bitter truth eventually comes out, our minds aren’t ready to accept and reconcile with it. Hence, for us, Waibhav is still alive,” she said.
Reflecting on his lifelong dedication to service, both as an army officer and a UN staffer, Waibhav’s cousin Chinmay Ashok Kale highlighted Waibhav’s unwavering commitment to duty. He said that Waibhav had been active and driven since childhood, balancing his professional responsibilities with a strong dedication to his family. Patriotism and a sense of duty were deeply ingrained in the Kale family, with Waibhav fulfilling his grandfather’s wish by persistently pursuing his dream of joining the armed forces, ultimately succeeding and serving his country with honor.
Ajita Kale, Waibhav’s sister-in-law, emphasized his deep commitment to serving his country. She highlighted that for Waibhav, joining the army was not just about risking his life for his nation but also about passionately living for his homeland. His readiness to give his all for the country reflected his profound sense of duty and patriotism.
Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale is survived by his wife Amruta and their two teenage children, son Vedant and daughter Radhika.
By: Aditya Ahuja
(With agency inputs)
