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.