In a significant administrative development, the Indian Army has formally initiated proceedings to terminate the commission of Major Sharyf Bhonsle, a Special Forces officer who has remained absent without authorization since August 2014. The officer was subsequently declared a deserter after failing to report back to duty.

The move marks a decisive step toward resolving a case that has remained under scrutiny within military circles for more than a decade, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to discipline, accountability, and institutional integrity.

Background of the Officer

Major Sharyf Bhonsle is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and was commissioned into the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) in 2009. At the time of his disappearance, he was serving as Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, a prestigious and sensitive assignment that reflects the level of trust placed in him by the institution.

According to official records, Major Bhonsle proceeded on sanctioned annual leave but failed to rejoin his unit upon completion of the leave period.

Unapproved Foreign Travel and Investigation

Subsequent investigations revealed that the officer had reportedly travelled to Spain to participate in an international para-jumping festival without obtaining the mandatory clearance from Military Intelligence. Such foreign travel without authorization constitutes a serious violation under military regulations.

Further digital traces reportedly linked his last known activity to Norway, based on social media records. Despite extensive investigative efforts, including coordination with civil authorities and the issuance of an Apprehension Roll in 2016, his whereabouts remain unknown.

The prolonged absence—now spanning over a decade—has resulted in the Army initiating formal administrative action.

Show Cause Notice Under the Army Act

On 27 October 2025, the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army) issued a Show Cause Notice to Major Bhonsle. His extended absence has been categorised as grave misconduct under the provisions of the Army Act, 1950.

The notice states that his continued retention in service is considered undesirable and provides him with a 30-day period to respond. The notice was formally served at his family residence in Aundh, Pune.

If no response is received within the stipulated timeframe, the Army will proceed with ex-parte termination of his commission, as per established legal and administrative procedures.

Maintaining Discipline and Accountability

The Indian Army operates under a strict framework of discipline and operational responsibility. Cases of prolonged unauthorized absence are treated with seriousness, particularly when they involve officers entrusted with high-profile assignments and sensitive operational backgrounds.

The initiation of termination proceedings reflects the Army’s adherence to:

• The rule of law under the Army Act, 1950
• Institutional accountability
• Preservation of service standards
• Upholding the credibility of commissioned ranks

Significance of the Case

This case underscores the importance of compliance with service regulations, particularly regarding:

• Foreign travel clearance
• Reporting protocols
• Operational responsibility

While the matter has remained unresolved for several years, the current development signals the Army’s determination to bring procedural closure through established legal mechanisms.

Conclusion

The initiation of termination proceedings against Major Sharyf Bhonsle represents a critical administrative step by the Indian Army. By invoking provisions under the Army Act, 1950, the institution has reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, transparency, and professional accountability.

As the 30-day response window progresses, the case may soon reach formal resolution in accordance with military law.