Ambala: Gate in memory of Shaurya Chakra awardee Laxman Singh inaugurated

Ambala, February 18

Haryana Home and Health Minister Anil Vij inaugurated a memorial gate constructed in the memory of Shaurya Chakra awardee Laxman Singh of Babyal village on the occasion of his martyrdom day on Friday.

Hailing from Babyal village, Laxman Singh had joined the Border Road Organisation as an operator, excavating machinery.

On February 18, 2005, due to heavy snowfall at Khardung La, of Ladakh region three dozers were directed to clear the snow. The dozer being driven by Laxman Singh was hit by an avalanche. Laxman Singh’s body was entombed in the ice in February. It was only after the ice melted his body could be recovered. The family had to wait till July before they could perform the last rites. In 2006, Shaurya Chakra was awarded to him posthumously for his courageous action by the then president APJ Abdul Kalam.

On the directions of the Home Minister, the construction of the gate was started last year.

Anil Vij said it was his utmost duty to respect the martyrs, and because of them the country was safe. Last year, he came to know that the family of martyr Laxman Singh wanted to get a memorial gate constructed at Babyal village. On their demand, the work was started on the martyrdom day last year and the gate has been constructed by Municipal Council Sadar Zone at a cost of Rs 4.31 lakh. It has been constructed near the government school and the details about Laxman Singh and his courageous action have been mentioned on the gate so that the coming generations can know about him.

Martyr’s wife Mina Kumari, sons Ajeet and Rajat along with several other people were present on this occasion.