Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Indian Consul General Md. Noor Rahman Sheikh called on the community members to remember the supreme sacrifice of the 44 paramilitary soldiers, who lost their lives in a terrorist attack in Phulwama, Jammu & Kashmir, and pray for the departed souls at a condolence meeting to pay homage to our soldiers in the conference Hall, Consulate General of India here on Sunday.

In his somber address, Sheikh said, “We are gathered here to offer homage to the 44 CRPF jeans who lost their lives in Phulwama, in Jammu & Kashmir, when a suicide bomber drove his car into the convoy carrying these soldiers to their duty station.

“We need to remember that these bravehearts were not only guarding our borders but also guarding our security so we could live in peace.”

While thanking the community for their strong show of support, he said, “I am happy that members of the community have come in large numbers to pay homage to these martyrs, and I’m sure all of us are united in condemning such acts and should take positive actions that would help the bereaved families.

“I also pray that the departed souls get a place in heaven, and the Almighty gives courage and solace to the families to bear the loss.”

While recalling the bereavement of the families affected by this tragedy, he exhorted the community to contribute generously to help the families.

“I would suggest that all of us should contribute, in whatever capacity, to help these families. You all know through social media, Google, the government and different agencies have set up that fund collections and any small help will go a big way to ease the families’ grief. Please donate generously to bring light to these families, whose future has been darkened by this tragedy,” he said.

He called on the community members of observe a minute’s silence in homage to the departed souls. He then lit the candles in memory of the martyrs and called on the community to join him in this effort.

Moin Akhtar, consul community welfare and PIC, began the meeting on a solemn note by recalling the tragedy.

“Today, on this somber occasion, we have gathered here is really important. The recent event in Phulwama is really one of the horrific and dastardly events in our nation, a terror act in which our jawans (soldier) were martyred, and we have gathered here to offer our condolences and pay homage to them for their service to the nation,” he said.

“They say a martyr does not die. They are always alive in the minds of the people for their service and valor. These martyrs of Phulwama will always remain in our hearts,” he added.

“I pray that Almighty God gives these martyrs a place in heaven. Soldiers may be placed at the border to safeguard the nation, but in reality while guarding the border they are securing for us a safe life with our families and friends.

“Come rain, shine, show or wind, the members of the armed forces sacrifice everything so we could enjoy a safe and secure and peaceful life,” he said. Today we, Indians, should pay homage for these fallen soldiers and their value their sacrifice and valor.

“I again pray that the martyred souls are given a place in paradise, and pray that God gives courage and solace to the bereaved families and patience and strength to bear the loss,” he concluded.

Members of the community then shared their thoughts and offered their deepest condolences. Each one of them spoke about the need to reflect on the service offered by the Armed forces and the paramilitary forces that has enabled them to pursue their dreams in a secure environment.

They felt that they need to rise to the occasion and contribute in every which way to help the forces and their families feel valued and respected. Their underlining message for the immediacy was to spare a thought to the bereaved families and should unite to help these families in their darkest hour.