Tears flowed freely in Labed village, Tiril Basti, Ranchi, where the community farewelled jawan Ajay Lakda with military honors. Part of the 10 soldiers killed in a vehicular mishap during a Doda operation on January 22, Ajay’s death has shattered his family’s hopes.
Friday night saw his body land at Birsa Munda Airport, greeted by Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore and other officials. Saturday brought the poignant journey home, marked by chants of ‘India’s pride lives on.’
The most gut-wrenching moments unfolded with his aging mother’s grief. Fainting repeatedly, she questioned her future without her son who vowed to construct a proper home and start a family. ‘March-April leave, new house, then shaadi,’ he had cheerfully promised over the phone.
Orphaned young after his father’s 2003 demise, Ajay grew up in poverty. His mother toiled selling liquor roadside to educate her children. Ajay’s passion for the army shone through dawn workouts. Today, sisters wedded—one in IRB—brother in CISF, but the family reels.
This tragedy underscores the sacrifices of border guardians from humble beginnings. Ajay’s unyielding spirit and broken promises etch a lasting tribute in Ranchi’s heart, urging the nation to cherish its protectors.