By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: BSF jawan Rambabu Singh, a resident of Vasilpur village in Siwan district, was martyred on 12 May in Pakistani firing along the Jammu and Kashmir border. His mortal remains were brought to Patna on Wednesday, where a wreath-laying ceremony was held at Patna Airport. Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, paid floral tributes and expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom.
Tejashwi Yadav saluted Singh’s bravery and spirit of national service. Speaking to the media, he said, “We bow to the courage of jawans like Rambabu Singh, who lay down their lives for the nation.” Yadav revealed that he spoke to the martyr’s family via video call soon after learning about the incident and offered condolences.
The senior RJD leader also announced his intention to write to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging that BSF, CISF, and military personnel who die in the line of duty be officially accorded the status of ‘martyr’. He emphasised the need for equal recognition across all forces serving the nation.
Tejashwi Slams CM and Deputies for Skipping Tribute
Tejashwi strongly criticised the absence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and both Deputy Chief Ministers, Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, from the tribute ceremony. “It is unfortunate and disappointing that neither the Chief Minister nor the two Deputy CMs turned up to honour the martyr. This raises serious questions about their priorities,” he said. “Such events deserve utmost respect and attention. It is because of soldiers like Rambabu Singh that we remain safe.”
He added that leaders must understand the value of such sacrifices and respond with appropriate sensitivity and presence.
CM Nitish Kumar Paid Tribute Online
While the Chief Minister did not attend the tribute ceremony in person, he paid his respects through a post on social media platform X on Tuesday. He expressed grief and extended condolences to the bereaved family. The Bihar government has also announced an ex gratia of ₹50 lakh for the martyr’s family.
“Salute to BSF jawan Rambabu Singh from Vasilpur village in Siwan, who was martyred in Pakistani firing along the Jammu-Kashmir border. His sacrifice will be remembered forever. I am deeply pained by the incident,” Nitish Kumar posted.
Recently Married, Rambabu Singh Had Joined Duty in April
Rambabu Singh, hailing from Siwan’s Barharia block, had joined duty in Jammu and Kashmir on 10 April. He was newly married, and his family had been preparing for his transfer to Jodhpur. However, due to heightened tensions along the border, his deployment was postponed. According to his father-in-law, Singh spoke to his wife Anjali around 10 AM on 12 May—just hours before the tragic firing took place.
His martyrdom has plunged the village of Vasilpur into mourning, as the nation salutes the bravery and dedication of a young soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
