Cassian Baliarsingh

Condolence messages have been pouring in for the bereaved family members of Odia Jawan Debashish Biswal who received martyrdom on Thursday. He was among the five army personnel who lost their lives in a terrorist attack in Poonch area of Jammu and Kashmir yesterday.

Lance Naik, Debashish Biswal from Alagum near Sakhigopal in Puri district is survived by his wife and a 7-month-old baby. What is more heartbreaking is that he was supposed to celebrate his first marriage anniversary on April 22 on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. 

BJP National Vice President Baijayant Panda expressed grief over Jawan’s death and wrote, “My heart goes out to the families of our soldiers who lost their lives in the terror attack in Poonch, J&K. Deeply mourn and send my heartfelt condolences. Praying for the safety of the injured bravehearts who survived the attack.”

Similarly, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik wrote, “The news of the martyrdom of Odisha's hero Jawan Debasis Biswal in the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir is very sad. His sacrifices for the safety of the country will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace and my condolences to the family members at such a sad time.”

“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the martyrdom of 5 Jawans including Debasis Biswal of Sakhigopal area of Puri district of Odisha in terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. The sacrifice of these brave Javanese will not go in vain,” wrote Dharmendra Pradhan.

“Condolences to the bereaved family along with wishing the immortal soul peace. May Lord Sri Jagannath grant infinite patience and courage to the family during this difficult time. Om Shanti,” he added.

Meanwhile, a pall of gloom descended on Alagum village following Jawan’s death.

“The whole village is in shock. Although we are proud of him, we are shattered after hearing the news of his death. The whole village is heartbroken,” said Biswal’s grandfather Panchanan Biswal.

A teary-eyed Dilip Biswal, brother of Debasis said, “He was one of the brightest children of this village. Everyone knew he was born for something big since his childhood. He was the pride of our village.”

“We will not get a son like him anymore. We can never forget him,” said Biswal’s mother Shantilata as tears continued to flow from her eyes.

  • Reported by:
  • MADHUSUDAN MISHRA
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