Naxalites resort to cowardly acts out of frustration, says CM Sai
Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Tuesday paid tribute to Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Girepunje, who was killed in an IED blast in Sukma district.
The emotional wreath-laying ceremony was held at the 4th Battalion of Chhattisgarh Armed Forces (CAF) in Mana area, where officials and hundreds of citizens gathered to pay their respects. CM Sai, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Vijay Sharma and Arun Sao, state assembly speaker Raman Singh, and various ministers, participated in the ceremony.
CM expressed his certainty that Naxalism, which claimed the officer's life, is on its last legs and will soon be eradicated.
Girepunje, 42, was killed and two officers injured when an IED planted by Naxalites exploded in Konta, Sukma.
The officer's family, including his wife, parents, and two minor children, were present. His 7-year-old son bowed to the mortal remains with folded hands, and a relative carried his 6-year-old daughter in his arms.
After the ceremony, Girepunje's body was taken in a flower-decked mini-truck for last rites at Mahadev Ghat, with hundreds following the procession, chanting slogans in tribute to the slain officer.
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At the crematorium, his 7-year-old son lit the funeral pyre, a moment that deeply moved those present.
In his remarks, CM Sai stated, "We have lost a brave and committed officer. Naxalites have resorted to cowardly acts out of frustration. Naxalism is breathing its last, and its end is certain."
Deputy chief minister Vijay Sharma, who also holds the Home portfolio, praised Girepunje's bravery and commitment to his duty.
He recalled that Girepunje had vowed to stay in Sukma until the Naxal threat in the region was completely eliminated.
Vow to Eradicate Naxalism
Bastar IG P Sundarraj visited the blast site on Tuesday and pledged that the police forces are fully prepared to deal with the Naxal threat. The IG said that the police would not rest until Naxalism is completely removed from Bastar. "The sacrifice of Akash Rao and other martyrs will not go in vain.
Their legacy will continue to inspire our mission for peace, prosperity, and progress," he said.
Final Farewell to the Martyr
Akash Rao Girepunje, originally from Raipur, had served as ASP of Konta for over a year and had previously been honoured with a gallantry medal for his dedication to the fight against Naxalism. His family was preparing to celebrate his daughter's birthday, which falls on Wednesday, but the tragic loss has shattered those plans.
The ceremony was marked by emotional scenes, as the community and officials from across the state paid their respects to a fallen hero committed to safeguarding the people of Bastar.
In a show of solidarity, locals in Konta region have expressed anguish over IED blasts and residents have called for Dornapal 'bandh' on Wednesday. Traders and businessmen on Tuesday plan to carry out candle march late Tuesday and a tribute ceremony was also held.
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