Terrorist turned Military man Lance Naik Wani to be awarded Ashok Chakra

New Delhi: In a first for Kashmir, Lance Naik Nazir Ahmad Wani belonging to the state, will be awarded the highest peace-time gallantry award "Ashok Chakra" posthumously on Republic Day.The award will be presented to his wife Mahajabeen by President Ramnath Kovind.

On November 25, Lance Naik Wani was participating in a counter terrorist operation against six terrorists in Hirapur village near Batgund, Kashmir. Under intense hail of bullets from the terrorists, he eliminated the district commander of the LeT and one foreign terrorist in a very daring display of raw courage. 

In the ensuing gunfight he was hit multiple times, including his head. He also injured another terrorist before succumbing to his grievous injuries.Lance Naik Wani joined the Army's 162 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) (Home and Hearth) Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, at a young age in 2004. 

He was a hero right from the beginning and always served for the peace in his home state of Jammu and Kashmir.  His extraordinarily fearless and courageous personage was reflected in getting the Sena Medal for gallantry twice in 2007 and 2018, defence official said.

The 2018 Sena Medal was given for eliminating one terrorist from a very close distance.Always having the interest of the nation in his heart, he joined the Indian Army. To fight the onslaught of Pakistan supported terrorist outfits, he operated with Rashtriya Rifles units in Kashmir. 

Throughout his active life, he always willingly faced grave potential threats and was a source of inspiration for others, the official said.

Lance Naik Wani, a resident of Cheki Ashmuji of Kulgam district Jammu and Kashmir, did his village, district and State proud on the 70th Republic Day. Hailing from a humble background,  he worked for the benefit of the underprivileged section of society. 

A very genial man, he was very mindful of the problems of his village and surrounding area.  Lance Naik Wani also had many acts of selfless service in the area he belonged to. 

His heroic efforts during operations will be a beacon of light for the youth of Kashmir.Apart from his wife he is survived by two sons Athar (20) and Shaid (18).(UNI)