Sulekha Giri, wife of deceased Col Anil Giri (inset) grieves beside his coffin at Hamirpur. Tribune photo

Our Correspondent

Hamirpur, September 6

Col Anil Kumar Giri, who reportedly died of cardiac arrest during an Army operation in the Bhaderwah mountain ranges of Jammu and Kashmir was cremated with full state honours at Swahal, his native village today.From the Army Signals Corps, Giri was posted at the Corps Battle School (CBS). On Sunday, he complained chest pain. He could not be airlifted immediately as the helicopter reached late due to bad weather.At the wreath-laying ceremony, all officers paid tributes to him.He was decorated with the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM). A tough and fearless soldier, he had many successful operations to his credit.He is survived by wife Sulekha and two sons Tushar (21) and Pranav (16).

Leaders offer condolences

Former Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, MP Anurag Thakur, Kangra Central Cooperative Bank Vice-Chairman Kuldeep Singh Pathania, KCCB Director Anil Verma, former CPS Anita Verma, Former Industries Minister Ranjit Singh Verma and many others offered condolences to the bereaved family.Dhumal said it was a huge loss for the country. He said the district was proud to have such brave men.