Proud of his sacrifice, says slain BSF constable's dad

Guwahati: The mortal remains of BSF constable Deepak Chingakham, who hails from Manipur and was killed in cross-border shelling by Pakistan in RS Pura area of Jammu, would be brought to Imphal on Tuesday.

Chingakham was from BSF's 7th Battalion and was among the eight BSF personnel who were injured in the cross-border shelling on Saturday. He succumbed to his injuries the next day.

The wreath-laying ceremony would be held at Imphal airport after which the mortal remains would be taken to his hometown in Yairipok Yambem Mathak Leikai in Imphal East where the last rites would be performed.

Deepak is survived by his father, mother and a brother.

Chingakham Bonibihari Singh, father of the fallen constable, told PTI, "We are really proud of his sacrifice. He joined the BSF in April 2021 and was the sole breadwinner of the family. Due to health issues, I am unable to work."

Deepak's younger brother Chingakham Naoba Singh said, "He used to call me now and then to ask me what I needed and always told me to work hard to succeed in life. Now he is gone. I am completely devastated."

Deepak's mother is also in a state of shock and has been crying inconsolably, asking her son to be brought back.

Former Manipur chief minister, N Biren Singh, posted on his X handle, "He was a proud son of Manipur, and as a Manipuri-Meitei, his courage and devotion to the nation reflect the unwavering commitment of our people to protect and serve. We salute the armed forces for their relentless dedication and bravery. We stand with the family of Constable Deepak in this difficult time and will extend all possible support. His sacrifice will always be remembered with honour and pride," Singh said.

BJP and the Congress in Manipur on Monday condoled the death of Chingakham. BJP state president Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi said, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of constable (GD) Deepak Chingakham of the Border Security Force, who made the ultimate sacrifice while bravely serving the nation during cross-border firing in the R S Pura sector."

Congress president Keisham Meghachandra extended his condolences to the bereaved family. Keisham said, "The people of Manipur, and indeed the entire nation, are proud of his bravery and commitment. We will remember him for his supreme sacrifice for our motherland. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers. May the Almighty grant them strength during this time of immense grief."

The BSF in a social media post stated, "Constable Deepak Chingakham sustained fatal injuries during cross-border firing along the International Boundary in R S Pura area, Jammu district, on May 10, and attained martyrdom on May 11."