BAGDOGRA, :
The mortal remains of Army Captain Brijesh Thapa, who was killed in action
while fighting terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir, were brought to 158 Army Base
Hospital in Bagdogra on Wednesday. The remains arrived at around 2:30 pm and
were received with deep respect and honour.
A
wreath-laying ceremony was held where Captain Thapa’s family and several
dignitaries paid their tributes amid chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”.
Captain
Thapa’s father Bhuwanesh Thapa, mother Nilima Thapa and sister Nikita Thapa
were present to honour their beloved. Bhuwanesh Thapa, a retired Army colonel,
saluted his son's coffin, showing immense pride and respect. “I am proud of my
son for his sacrifices to the nation,” he told the media. Nilima Thapa, though
overcome with grief, said, “I feel proud of my son but did not ever think that
we would be meeting this way.”
Several
prominent officials also attended the ceremony to pay their respects including
Army officials, Darjeeling district magistrate Dr. Preetin Goyal, Darjeeling SP
Abhisekh Roy, Darjeeling Lok Sabha MP Raju Bista, Rajya Sabha MP Shanta Chhetri
and GTA chairman Anit Thapa.
After
the ceremony, Captain Thapa's remains were kept in the morgue of the 158 Army
Base Hospital for the night. On Thursday, they will be transported to his
native place in Darjeeling for the final rites.
Sikkim Chief Minister P.S. Golay said Thapa’s
bravery and dedication have earned him a place among the immortal heroes of
India.
“Captain Brijesh Thapa has joined the legion of
immortal Indians who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. My
thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this hour of grief. May
the departed soul rest in eternal peace”, the Chief Minister shared in a
statement.
