Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who died in Surajkund Fair tragedy, cremated with state honours

Braveheart Police Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who laid down his life while rescuing visitors during the swing collapse at the Surajkund International Crafts Fair, was cremated with full state honours at his native village Dengar in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh today.

The last rites were performed on the banks of the Yamuna, where his son Gaurav lit the pyre, bidding an emotional farewell to his father. Hundreds of mourners, including senior Haryana Police officers, local police officials and villagers, gathered to pay their respects to the officer.

A ceremonial salute was accorded to the mortal remains of Inspector Prasad, recognising his sacrifice in the line of duty.

‘Nation proud of his courage’

Paying tribute, Palwal SP Varun Singla said the entire nation was proud of Inspector Prasad’s courage, dedication and selfless service.

“Today every Indian is proud of his bravery and commitment to duty,” SP Singla said, while consoling the bereaved family.

Rescue operation turned fatal

Inspector Jagdish Prasad lost his life while leading rescue operations after a swing collapsed at the Surajkund Handicraft Fair on Saturday evening. Ironically, his nephew Prashant had been riding the same swing just moments before the accident.

Prashant, along with other family members, reached Badshah Khan Civil Hospital for the post-mortem formalities on Sunday. Recounting the horrific moments, he said the tragedy unfolded right before his eyes.

“I had just got off the swing and was standing nearby. My uncle Jagdish was on duty there. When the swing broke, Jagdish Chacha was the first to jump in to rescue people,” Prashant said.

“He pulled out several people trapped under the swing and continued helping others. But suddenly the broken structure tilted further towards him, trapping his neck. He suffered severe facial injuries. He was rushed to the hospital, but he could not be saved,” he added.

‘He promised to return after the fair’

An inconsolable Gaurav, the son of the deceased officer, said his father had met the family for the last time before leaving for duty at the fair.

“My father met our family for the last time before the fair started. He had promised to meet again only after the fair was over, but that meeting proved to be his last. One of my sisters was to be married in November, but everything has been shattered now,” Gaurav told ‘The Tribune’.