Nation pays homage to Colonel Jojan Thomas

Bangalore, Aug 25: Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa assured state government's help to the family of Colonel Jojan Thomas who died while fighting with terrorists in Kashmir on Friday, Aug 22. Speaking to the brave soldier's wife Beena after visiting their house in the city to pay his respects, he said besides other help the government would take care of the educational expenses of Col Thomas' children.

The mortal remains of the Colonel was laid to rest with full state honours in the city on Monday, Aug 25. Earlier, hundreds of people visit the colonel's home at Manekshaw Vihar in the city after his body was flown in on Saturday, Aug 23. The 43-year-old Colonel was killed in a fierce battle between a militants and the quick reaction team of 45 Rashtriya Rifles of which he was in the lead. His team killed six militants but the officer was also fatally injured in the encounter.

The body was taken for funeral service at St Geroge Kanaya Syrian Church at Domlur in the city. Speaking to newspersons after paying his tribute, Mr Yeddyurappa said has said that the Colonel had set an example for bravery and the whole nation was indebted to him.

Kerala based Colonel Thomas belonged to a family that served defence services with distinction. His father Capt (rtd) P A Thomas had died last September and the family was staying in the city for the last three years.

UNI