Army aid to slain officer’s family

SHILLONG: The GOC 101 Area Lt Gen DS Ahuja handed over a cheque of Rs 75 lakh (terminal benefits) to the family of late Major David Manlun at their residence at Madanriting on Thursday.
Speaking to media persons, Lt Gen DS Ahuja recalled the sacrifice made by David saying “there was no better way to lay down your life (than) for the service of the nation” and saluted the ‘brave’ soldier.
Ahuja said besides the Rs 75 lakh, the family will get around Rs 50 lakh more, including the central government ex gratia.
In addition, the State Government is also scheduled to provide Rs 7.5 lakh to the family as ex gratia, which is under process.
On the other hand, David’s mother, Mannuam Niang, said her son was an example for the country. “If we follow what my son did, there will be peace in the entire country,” she said.
She added that her son died like a hero and she is proud of the sacrifice made by him.
Meanwhile, brother Siampu Manlun recalled that both of them were always fascinated by Army officers from the Gorkha Training Centre and the Assam Regimental Centre.
“I am also interested in joining the Army,” he said.
The family also had some grievances. Siampu said the family wants to build a house and dedicate it to Manlun’s memory but they have been advised to seek the State Government’s permission before purchasing land.
To this, Ahuja assured that he would personally take up the matter with the Meghalaya Chief Minister.
The 32-year-old officer who was born and brought up in Shillong though his family is originally from Manipur.
He died during an encounter with militants in Mon district of Nagaland on June 6.
During the operation, three militants were also killed and the army recovered a cache of arms and ammunition.