Did Jharkhand's CRPF Jawan Praneswar Koch Pay the Ultimate Sacrifice?

Ranchi, July 16 (NationPress) The CRPF jawan, Praneswar Koch, from the 209 CoBRA Battalion, was honored with a heartfelt farewell after he was martyred in a confrontation with Maoists in the thickly forested Birhordera area of Bokaro district’s Gomia. The emotional tribute took place at the headquarters of CRPF 133 Battalion in Ranchi on Wednesday evening.

Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar led the memorial, laying a wreath on the remains of the valiant soldier.

In his speech, the Governor remarked, “The supreme sacrifice of Jawan Praneswar Koch will not be forgotten. His bravery in the anti-Maoist operation will always be cherished. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family. It is because of courageous soldiers like him that Maoist activities have diminished in our state.”

He also expressed optimism that Maoism would be completely eliminated in the near future.

Numerous high-ranking officials from the state government and police department, including Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, Home Secretary Vandana Dadel, DGP Anurag Gupta, and IG Operations Dr. Michael Raj S., paid their respects to the martyr, laying floral tributes and observing a moment of silence in honor of the fallen hero.

The encounter occurred on Wednesday morning during a coordinated search operation by CoBRA and CRPF units, triggered by intelligence reports concerning Maoist activities in the forested Gomia area.

As the forces advanced, the Maoists opened fire, leading to a retaliatory operation. During the skirmish, a Maoist commander, known to have a bounty of Rs 5 lakh on his head, was killed. This individual has been identified as Kunwar Manjhi, also referred to as Sahdev Manjhi.

In the course of this operation, CRPF jawan Praneswar Koch lost his life, and a local villager was also tragically killed in the crossfire between the Maoists and security forces.

DGP Gupta expressed his condolences to the media, stating, “We are profoundly saddened by the loss of our jawan and the death of an innocent villager. However, we remain resolute that any Maoist who refuses to surrender will face strict action.”

Originally from Kokrajhar district in Assam, Praneswar Koch was remembered by CRPF officials for his bravery and commitment, never shying away from danger. “He was known for his sense of responsibility and fearless nature,” an officer remarked.

His remains will be transported back to his native village in Assam, where he will be cremated with full state honors.

DGP Gupta further revealed that a total of 22 Maoists have been eliminated in encounters this year.

“We continue to call upon those still engaged in violence to surrender. Many have already laid down their arms. Under the Jharkhand government's surrender policy, returning individuals are placed in open jails and provided with financial assistance, educational support for their children, and rehabilitation aid,” he explained.

He underscored that while the government welcomes those who abandon violence, it will take firm action against those who persist in bearing arms.