Chandigarh, May 7 - Haryana Chief Minister Mr. Manohar Lal today visited the residence of Major Anuj Sood, at Amravati Enclave who attained martyrdom during an encounter with terrorists in the Handwara region of Jammu and Kashmir.

During his visit, Mr. Manohar Lal expressed his condolences to his family and said that we are proud of the soldiers who have not only dedicated their lives to safeguard the country’s borders but are always ready to give a befitting reply to the terrorists. While doing this they do not think twice before sacrificing their lives. He said that we will always be grateful to all the martyred soldiers.

The Chief Minister said that though they cannot fill the absence of these martyrs but the State Government is certainly committed to provide all necessary help to their family members. A separate Sainik and Ardh Sainik Welfare Department has been formed by Haryana Government for the welfare of serving soldiers, ex-servicemen and their dependents. He said that as per the State Government’s policy, an amount of Rs 50 lakh and a government job is given to the family of the martyr.

The Chief Minister expressed his condolence with family members of the Late Major Anuj Sood, including his father Brigadier Chandrakant Sood, mother Suman Devi, Sister Capt. Harshita, and wife Aakriti Singh.

Later, in the day, the Chief Minister also expressed his condolences on the demise of 92 years old former Director-General of Police, Mr. H.S. Swan, who lived in Sector-6 Panchkula.

Haryana Vidhan Speaker, Mr. Gian Chand Gupta, former MLA, Mrs. Latika Sharma, Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Mukesh Kumar Ahuja, and Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mohit Handa, and BJP District President Mr. Deepak Sharma accompanied the Chief Minister to offer their condolences to the bereaved families.