A serving Major of the Indian Army has reportedly sought asylum in Europe while on an official visit. This action is being seen as a major embarrassment for the Indian Army.
According to sources, Major Sharyf Bhonsle was frustrated with the Modi government’s war-focused policies, anti-minority measures, and growing political interference in the army. These concerns reportedly led him to leave India.
Sources said Major Bhonsle went on annual leave in August 2014 but never returned. This period also coincided with policies promoting extremism and the use of the army for political purposes.
Internal army investigations revealed that Major Bhonsle travelled to Spain for para-jumping without the required military intelligence clearance.
This showed early signs of distrust in the Indian military system, according to reports.
Later, reports suggested he was traced in Norway through social media activity.
However, for more than ten years, the Indian army and intelligence agencies have been unable to locate him.
Observers say this failure exposes weaknesses and internal unrest within India’s security system.
In 2016, the Indian army issued an apprehension roll against Major Bhonsle to cover up its failures, but it produced no results.
Finally, on October 27, 2025, the Army Headquarters issued a show-cause notice under the Army Act 1950. It cited “serious misconduct.”
The notice was sent to his residence in Pune, giving him 30 days to respond. It also threatened the cancellation of his commission if he did not reply.
Sources say the army has now started formal dismissal proceedings to give a legal appearance to its failure.
Reports say Major Bhonsle’s asylum request in Europe shows deep unrest within the Indian army.
