The parents of Army Captain Brijesh Thapa, martyred in a recent encounter in Jammu and Kashmir, expressed their pride and sorrow on Tuesday.
Captain Thapa, born on January 15, celebrated as Army Day, was killed in action while combating heavily armed terrorists in Doda district.
Colonel Bhuwanesh K Thapa (Retd), Brijesh's father, recounted his son’s lifelong ambition to join the Indian Army, inspired by him as a third-generation officer in their family.
"I feel proud of my son," the retired officer said, reflecting on Brijesh’s dedication to duty. "
This is an Army operation and there is always risk in such ops," he said from Jing Tea Estate in Darjeeling's Lebong.
Despite the inherent dangers, Col Thapa highlighted the commitment required of Army personnel.
"My son has done well in such a risky operation and did it sincerely," he added.
Nilima Thapa, the martyred officer's mother, shared the poignant coincidence of her son's birth on Army Day. "I feel proud he did so much for the country. But it is such a huge loss, so I feel sad also," she said, struggling to control her tears. "Duty is duty. Once you have worn the belt and the cap, you can't step back."
She highlighted the crucial role of Indian Army personnel in safeguarding the nation. "There is so much deployment at the borders to ensure this," she noted.
The fatal encounter in Doda saw Captain Thapa and three other soldiers sustain fatal injuries.
The family received the tragic news of Brijesh’s martyrdom on Monday night.
The young officer, just 27 years old, had joined the Army five years ago, foregoing a career as a qualified engineer.
"He was 27 years old and joined the Army five years back," Col Thapa said. Brijesh last spoke to his family on July 14.
Captain Thapa, serving with the 145 Air Defence Regiment, was on deputation to 10 Rashtriya Rifles at the time of his death. "He came home on leave in March," Nilima said, noting that her son was unmarried.
Brijesh, born in Jalandhar, Punjab, had his education at Army School in Mumbai.
His mortal remains are expected to arrive at Bagdogra airport on Tuesday night, and a wreath-laying ceremony will follow.
The family plans to transport Brijesh’s body to their ancestral home in Lebong on Wednesday morning, with several stops along the way for people to pay their respects.
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