HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, July 16: A CRPF jawan from Assam’s Kokrajhar district was martyred during an anti-Naxal operation in Jharkhand on Wednesday morning, triggering a wave of mourning in his native village.
Praneswar Koch, a resident of Magurmari village under Kokrajhar police station, was serving with the 209 COBRA Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). He lost his life in an exchange of fire during a counter-insurgency operation in Bokaro district. Two Naxals were also killed in the encounter.
Related Posts:
Koch had joined the CRPF in 2018 and was the sole breadwinner of his family. He is survived by his wife, a five-year-old child, his parents, and siblings.
Speaking to this correspondent, Bireswar Koch, father of the deceased jawan, said he received a call from a CRPF official at around 8 a.m. informing him that his son had been seriously injured and admitted to a hospital. A few hours later, the family was informed of his death in action. “My son dedicated his life to protecting the country. His loss is devastating,” he said, adding that the mortal remains of the jawan are expected to arrive at their residence on Thursday morning.
Bodoland Territorial Region Chief Executive Member Pramod Boro expressed deep sorrow over the jawan’s death and offered condolences to the bereaved family. “It is heartbreaking to learn that Kokrajhar’s brave son, CT/GD Praneswar Koch, has made the supreme sacrifice while battling Naxals in Jharkhand today. His courage and devotion to duty will forever be remembered,” Boro said in his condolence message.
The district administration and CRPF officials are coordinating arrangements for the final rites.
