DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

The Bhog and Antim Ardas of the Akhand Path held in memory of Indian Army soldier Shaheed ALD Daljeet Singh, who sacrificed his life for the nation during a recent accident in Ladakh, was solemnly observed today at Gurdwara Sri Tahli Sahib, Galhri.

Defence Services Welfare, Freedom Fighters and Horticulture minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat attended the ceremony to pay homage. He was accompanied by Punjab Health Systems Corporation Chairman Mr. Raman Behl, senior Aam Aadmi Party leader from Dinanagar Mr. Shamsher Singh, District President Joban Randhawa and a large number of local residents. After the Bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib, the Raagi Singhs performed soulful kirtan at Gurdwara Sri Tahli Sahib, Galhri.

On behalf of the Punjab Government, Cabinet Minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat offered floral tributes to Shaheed ALD Daljeet Singh, stating that the entire nation is proud of its brave son. He said Daljeet Singh rendered exemplary service in the challenging terrain of Ladakh and attained martyrdom while defending the country. Mr. Bhagat conveyed that he had come on the directions of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann to share the grief of the bereaved family and assured them that the Punjab Government stands firmly with them in this difficult time.

The Cabinet Minister announced that the family would be given an ex-gratia grant of ?1 crore, of which a cheque of ?6 lakh was handed over today, with the remaining ?94 lakh to be released soon after completion of formalities. He further announced that Shaheed Daljeet Singh's brother would be given a government job, the village government school would be renamed in the martyr's honour, and a memorial gate would be constructed at the village entrance. He affirmed the Punjab Government's commitment to the welfare of martyr families, calling them invaluable assets of the nation and the community.

(editor@dailyworld.in)