Uttarakhand CM demands Ashok Chakra for Sharma

New Delhi, Sep 24 (UNI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister B C Khanduri today demanded that Delhi encounter hero Inspector Mohan Sharma, who laid down his life while encountering terrorists here, be awarded Ashok Chakra, the highest gallantry honour of the country.

In a letter to Home Minister Shivraj Patil, Major Gen (Retd) Khanduri said by honouring Inspector Sharma, who had already been decorated with President's Police Medal, the nation would be providing a moral boost to other policemen in their fight against terrorism.

Maj-Gen Khanduri also demanded promotion for the slain inspector, pointing out to Mr Patil that a few years back, a recommendation had been made to the Delhi Lt Governor for giving out of turn promotion to Inspector Sharma to the rank of Assistance Commissioner.

Therefore, the Centre should immediately accept the recommendation.

He also demanded adequate security for the Inspector's family.

UNI NAZ ATI HT1518