Telangana: Will Rs 1 crore relief for kin of excise constable killed by Ganja smugglers be enough?
Synopsis
The Telangana government has announced a substantial relief package for the family of excise constable Gajula Soumya, who lost her life after an attack by Ganja smugglers. This support includes a monetary ex-gratia, a job for her brother, and her funeral with police honours, highlighting the government's commitment to the safety of its officers.
Key Takeaways
Rs 1 crore ex-gratia announced for Soumya's family.
Job for her brother provided by the government.
Funeral to be conducted with police honours.
Government to pay Soumya's salary until retirement.
Stringent measures for officer safety under consideration.
Hyderabad, Feb 1 (NationPress) The Telangana government has declared an ex-gratia payment of Rs 1 crore to the family of excise constable Gajula Soumya, who tragically lost her life in an alleged assault by Ganja smugglers.
The young constable, aged just 25, passed away at a hospital in Hyderabad on Saturday night after being in critical condition for a week.
In addition to the monetary relief, the government has pledged a job for Soumya’s brother.
Furthermore, her funeral will be conducted with full police honours, with the Nizamabad district Collector instructed to arrange the necessary details.
Excise Minister Jupally Krishna Rao paid his respects at Gandhi Hospital, commending Soumya for her remarkable bravery in her duty.
He extended condolences to her family and assured them of comprehensive support from the government, including her salary being paid to the family from her start date until her retirement age.
The dedication and bravery she exhibited in her work are truly commendable. It's also heartening to see that employees of the Excise Department have chosen to donate one day's salary to support Soumya's family, showing solidarity with their colleague's loved ones, he remarked.
Krishna Rao emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Excise Department personnel, stating that stringent actions will be instituted to avert such occurrences in the future. He declared that those who target excise department staff will face severe consequences.
Additionally, the minister revealed that the government is contemplating a proposal to arm Excise Department officers, with a decision forthcoming.
Earlier, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy instructed the police to take stringent measures against those responsible for Soumya's tragic demise.
She succumbed at the Nizam’s Institute of Medical Science (NIMS) after being admitted on January 25, initially treated in the Emergency Department before being moved to the Respiratory Intensive Care Unit. She remained in a critical state, unconscious, and dependent on life support due to multiple organ failures.
Soumya sustained severe injuries after being struck by a vehicle belonging to a Ganja smuggling ring in Nizamabad district.
This incident took place during a routine vehicle check near Madhavnagar village in Nizamabad district on the night of January 23.
Point of View
The tragic death of excise constable Gajula Soumya serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in their duties. The Telangana government's prompt financial assistance and support for her family is commendable and essential in these trying times. This incident calls for a broader discussion on the safety and welfare of officers dedicated to protecting society.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the death of excise constable Gajula Soumya?
Gajula Soumya died after being critically injured in an alleged attack by Ganja smugglers, where she was run over by a vehicle linked to the smuggling gang.
What assistance has the government provided to Soumya's family?
The Telangana government has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 1 crore, a job for her brother, and will continue to pay her salary until the retirement age to her family.
What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of Excise Department officers?
Minister Jupally Krishna Rao has stated that stringent measures will be implemented to protect Excise Department personnel, including a proposal to provide arms to officers.
When and where did the incident occur?
The incident occurred during a vehicle check near Madhavnagar village in Nizamabad district on the night of January 23.
Who visited the hospital to pay respects to Soumya?
Excise Minister Jupally Krishna Rao visited Gandhi Hospital to pay his respects and support the family during this tragic time.
