Tragedy / Rayagada Soldier Martyred in Nagaland before Wedding

Rayagada, Oct 6: Tragedy struck Odisha’s Rayagada district as young soldier V Teja of the Assam Rifles lost his life in Nagaland, just a day before his 31st birthday. The shocking news has left his family and community devastated.

Teja, who joined the Assam Rifles in 2022, was on duty on Monday when a bullet struck him under circumstances yet to be clarified by the force.

He was rushed to medical care but declared dead upon arrival. The incident has raised questions, as officials have not disclosed how the firing occurred.

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The timing of his death has deepened the grief. Teja was set to celebrate his birthday tomorrow, and his marriage had been fixed for December 10 in Bhadrak.

His family had already completed preparations, with his brother stating that Teja had been granted 50 days of leave for the wedding. “Everything was ready, but now it is all gone,” he said in anguish.

Beyond his service, Teja had also pledged to donate his organs two years ago. Following his martyrdom, necessary procedures have been completed to preserve his organs, adding a note of pride to the sorrow.

His mortal remains will be flown by helicopter to Visakhapatnam today and then transported by ambulance to Rayagada. The district is preparing to receive its fallen son with honour, even as grief grips the family and neighbours.