Shaurya Chakra awardee cremated amid tight security in Tarn Taran village

Our Correspondent
Bhikhiwind (Tarn Taran), October 17 

A 62-year-old Shaurya Chakra winner who was shot dead on Friday was cremated here on Saturday under tight security, officials said.

Comrade Balwinder Singh (Sandhu) Bhikhiwind was shot dead by some armed men on Friday at a school that his family runs on Friday. The school also served as Balwinder Singh's residence.

His last rites were performed amid tensions that have gripped the area since his shooting.

Balwinder Singh was awarded the ‘Shaurya Chakra’, which is counted among the country’s highest bravery award, in 1993 because of his role in fighting militancy.

His family had previously refused to cremate him until his killers were arrested, but relented when district authorities intervened and promised action.

Police meanwhile continue to investigate the killing. Senior Superintendent of Police Dhruman H Nimbale said they were going through security cameras at the school, which was run by Balwinder Singh's family.

Political groups such as Revolutionary Marxist Party of India (RMPI) meanwhile have demanded better security for his family, and a government job to a family member.

District Police said they had given three armed security men to the family for protection. Patti’s Sub Divisional Magistrate, who was at the wreath laying ceremony, said he had asked the state government to consider the demands.