The festive air in Odisha’s Rayagada district has transformed into profound sorrow following the tragic martyrdom of 30-year-old Assam Rifles jawan, V Teja.
Serving in Nagaland, Teja lost his life while on duty on Monday, cutting short a promising life and shattering dreams of an upcoming wedding and a joyful homecoming.
Preparations for Teja’s wedding, scheduled for December 10, were already in full swing. Having recently secured a 50-day leave, he was eagerly anticipated home by his family to celebrate Diwali and prepare for the nuptials. Marking a bittersweet milestone, Teja would have celebrated his 31st birthday on October 7. He had joined the Indian Army in 2022, driven by a fierce desire to serve the nation.
True to his selfless character, Teja’s service to humanity extended beyond the battlefield. According to his family, he had signed an organ donation declaration two years ago. Honouring this profound final wish, medical teams successfully retrieved and preserved his organs at a local hospital in Nagaland. Through this act of supreme compassion, the braveheart continues to live on, giving the gift of life to others.
Teja’s mortal remains are being transported home, arriving in Visakhapatnam via a special helicopter from Hyderabad, before being brought to Rayagada by a special ambulance. Friends, family, and the entire nation stand in deep solidarity, honouring a soldier whose dedication to duty and humanity will echo far beyond his final resting place.
