SANGRUR :Sepoy Mandeep Singh, 23, killed in unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistan in the Krishna Ghati sector in Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday, was cremated with full state honours at his native village Alampur in Lehragaga tehsil of the district, on Sunday.
As Mandeep’s body arrived, a pall of gloom descended on the village.
Rich tributes were paid to the soldier who was also accorded a gun salute.
His body, wrapped in the Tricolour, was brought to his native village.
He had joined the 22 Sikh regiment about two-and-half years ago. His uncle Nirmal Singh is also an ex-serviceman.
His father Gurnam Singh and younger brother Jagdeep Singh, 20, lit the pyre.
Emotions ran high as people raised slogans like ‘Pakistan murdabad, and ‘Indian Army zindabad’.
Former Punjab chief minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, Lehra MLA Parminder Singh Dhindsa and Lehra sub-divisional magistrate Bikramjit Singh Shergill also attended the cremation. Many army officers and police personnel were also present.
“Punjabis sacrifice their lives for the country, but this is a difficult time for the family. We are proud of Mandeep,” said Bhattal.
Mandeep had joined the 22 Sikh regiment around three years ago and was to visit home on leave in February to make arrangements for the wedding of his sister.
He is survived by his parents and two siblings — an elder sister and brother Jagdeep, who wants to join the army.
“I am proud of my brother who has sacrificed his life for the country. I will also join the army to kill the country’s enemies,” Jagdeep said, adding that he spoke to his brother over phone three days ago.
Residents of Mandeep’s native village of Alampur in Moonak sub-division, around 70km from Sangrur, are also in shock.
