Memorial to be built in Budgam for cop martyred on Amarnath Yatra duty

A befitting memorial will be constructed in Lalpora village of Budgam district, in honour of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi, who was martyred on Wednesday in a terrorist attack at Lal Chowk, Anantnag, while deployed on Amarnath Yatra security duty.

Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Friday visited the family and paid heartfelt tributes.  Sharma said the country would remain indebted to the family that has lost two generations in the service of the nation.

The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, also paid heartfelt tributes to the brave policeman and conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family. He said the entire nation is proud of brave-heart Ashiq Hussain Qureshi, whose courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty will remain etched in our collective memory.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his condolences directly to the family.

“The Home Minister had asked me that when I visit here, I should connect him with the family. He also said that when he comes to Kashmir, he will definitely visit them,” Sharma said.

Recalling the family’s history of sacrifice, Sharma said Ashiq Hussain’s father had also laid down his life in 1995.” Thirty-one years ago, in February 1995, Ashiq Hussain’s father was martyred. Today, the son has also sacrificed his life while protecting the nation. Not just we, but the entire country is indebted to this family, and I do not think we can ever repay that debt.”

Responding to a demand from villagers that Lalpora be developed as a model village in recognition of its sacrifices, Sharma said efforts would be made to create a lasting memorial.

“This is a family of two martyrs. To keep their name alive and to give Lalpora its identity, we will make every effort to ensure there is some memorial — a statue, a ground, a school or some other mark of remembrance in this village,” he said.

Assuring the family of continued support, he added: “On behalf of my party and the Government of India, I have assured them that a family which has given two martyrs to the nation will never be left alone. This will not remain only in words; they will practically feel that the nation and the Government of India stand with them.”

LG Sinha also assured the family that the administration stands firmly with them and will ensure their well-being and dignity. The Lieutenant Governor also assured full support to the family until martyr Ashiq Hussain Qureshi’s son finishes his studies and becomes eligible for a compassionate government appointment.