K'taka CM assures help to Colonel Thomas' family

Bangalore, Aug 25 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa today assured state government's help to the family of Colonel Jojan Thomas, who died while fighting terrorists in Kashmir on Friday.

Speaking to newspersons here, after visiting the brave soldier's house to pay respects and talking to his widow Beena, Mr Yeddyurappa said the Colonel had set an example for bravery and the whole nation was indebted to him. Besides other help the government would take care of the educational expenses of Colonel Thomas' children.

The mortal remains of the 43-year-old Colonel were laid to rest with full state honours in the city today.

Earlier, hundreds of people visited the colonel's residence at Manekshaw Vihar after his body was flown in on Saturday.

Colonel Thomas was killed in a fierce battle between a group of 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.

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

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