Haryana govt releases Rs 50 lakh for martyr''s family

Vishal Joshi

Tribune News Service

Kurukshetra, February 25

Nearly four months after it made the announcement, the Haryana government on Saturday released Rs 50 lakh financial assistance to martyr Mandeep Singh’s family in the district.

A cheque for Rs 25 lakh has been issued in the name of martyr sepoy’s widow Prerna and Rs 12.50 lakh each in the names of deceased’s parents Phool Singh and Nirmala.

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Mandeep was martyred during an anti-terrorist operation near the Line of Control (LoC) in Machil sector in Kupwara on October 28 last. Later, his body was found mutilated along the LoC.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had announced Rs 50 lakh and a job to next of the kin of the martyr.

On January 26, The Tribune had reported the delay in awarding the compensation to the family living at Anteri village near here.

The state authorities blame the Army’s procedural delay for stepping forward in fulfilling announcements made by the CM for the aggrieved family on October 30.

Sources denied reports that there was any official assurance on granting a petrol pump to the family or promotion of Prerna, a constable in Haryana Police, as a DSP.

Yesterday, she along with her family members tried to meet the Prime Minister to complain about delay in getting promised compensation.

Prerna today said she refused to accept the compensation in the absence of male members in the family.

“My father-in-law and brother-in-law will reach home late tonight. I have requested the administration to hand over the amount tomorrow morning in the presence of all family members. Since the compensation has been sanctioned I have no grouse but want a martyr’s should be treated with all respect,” said Prerna.

“It was painful to see that the promise made by the CM himself took long time to materialise. Job promise to Mandeep’s younger brother should also be fulfilled soon,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Kurukshetra DC said a mandatory report by the Army was awaited by the state to release the ex gratia and other benefits.

“Battle casualty report by the army authorities reached the district administration on February 5 and the same day it was sent to the Sainik Board headquarters for the release the funds. Following official procedures, the cheques were released today,” said the DC.

An affidavit was furnished by Prerna last month for grant of job to Mandeep’s brother and the administration said the decision was under process at the government level.