The last rites of Sashanka Sekhar Nath, a Border Security Force (BSF) Sub Inspector who was posted in Poonch district of Kashmir, were held at the Baripada cremation ground with full state honours on Saturday. The departed jawan was accorded a Guard of Honour.
Nath was posted in Poonch district as a sub-inspector of the BSF’s 32 battalion. On January 11, there was heavy snowfall in the Poonch district. The district was also witnessing severe cold. Braving the inclement weather conditions, Nath among others was discharging his duty on the border. Later however, his body gave in. He suffered a massive heart attack allegedly due to severe cold. He laid down his life while serving for his motherland.
While the entire Mayurbhanj district was busy celebrating Makar Sankranti today, a pall of gloom descended on Baripada as the mortal remains of the fallen hero were taken in a procession to the cremation ground with hundreds of people coming out of their houses to pay their last tribute.
In the presence of jawans, family members, friends and residents of Baripada town, the last rites were performed.
“Due to network issues in Jammu and Kashmir we could not speak with him regularly. We could only speak when he would call. Just four days ago he had called but I couldn’t receive due to some work. He didn’t give me an opportunity to clarify,” said Nath’s son.
“We were childhood friends. His sudden demise has shocked me immensely. But I feel proud because he laid down his life for the motherland,” said Nath’s friend.