Key Points

A brave CRPF officer, Maharabam Prabo Singh, was tragically killed by lightning during an anti-Maoist operation in Jharkhand's Saranda forests. His mortal remains were brought to Manipur, where he was honored with full military tributes by government officials, family, and colleagues. The 46-year-old officer, who joined CRPF in 2006, was leading a joint operation when the fatal incident occurred. His sacrifice highlights the dangerous conditions faced by security personnel in challenging operational environments.

Key Points: Manipur Mourns CRPF Hero Maharabam Prabo Singh Lightning Tragedy

  • Brave CRPF officer died during joint anti-Maoist operation in Saranda forests
  • First lightning-related death of commandant-rank officer in region
  • Full state honors at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
  • Family and officials pay emotional tribute
2 min read

Manipur pays tribute to CRPF officer killed by lightning during anti-Maoist ops in Jharkhand

CRPF Officer Maharabam Prabo Singh killed by lightning during anti-Maoist operation in Jharkhand, honored with full military tributes in Manipur

"The CRPF would never forget his sacrifice - R. Duidang, CRPF DIG"

Imphal, May 17

A large number of local people in Manipur, family members and senior officials on Saturday bid a tearful farewell to CRPF officer Maharabam Prabo Singh, who was killed on May 15 in a lightning strike during an anti-Maoist operation in Jharkhand.

The mortal remains of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officer Singh (46) arrived at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport on Saturday afternoon. Manipur government’s Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, who is a former Director General of CRPF, along with senior officials, legislators and family members, paid tribute to the slain officer during a wreath-laying ceremony at the airport. From the airport, the mortal remains were then taken to his home at Sekmai in Imphal West district, where the last rites of the braveheart were performed with full force honour.

CRPF DIG of Manipur and Nagaland Sector R. Duidang said that Singh laid down his life in the line of duty after he was tragically struck by lightning during an anti-Maoist operation carried out by the 26th Battalion of the force. “Maharabam Prabo Singh had joined the central paramilitary force in 2006. He was a serious and efficient officer. The CRPF would never forget his sacrifice,” the DIG told the media.

On May 15, during an anti-Maoist operation conducted by the 26th Battalion of CRPF in Saranda forests under Chhotanagra region of Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum, Second-in-Command Maharabam Prabo Singh tragically lost his life after being struck by lightning. “The CRPF offers heartfelt tributes to the brave officer who laid down his life in the line of duty under such unfortunate circumstances. In this moment of profound grief, the entire force stands in solidarity with the bereaved family,” said a post of the paramilitary force on X.

This was the first lightning-related death of a commandant-rank officer in the Maoist-infested district. Singh was the second in command, leading the joint operation that was being jointly carried out by the paramilitary force and the district police. He died on the way to the hospital.

The three injured were identified as CRPF Assistant Commandant Subir Kumar Mandal from West Bengal and Jharkhand Police’s Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Chandlal Hansda and Suresh Bhagat, both Jharkhand natives. The injured are currently undergoing treatment in the hospital.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Heartbreaking news. Our CRPF jawans risk their lives daily, even facing nature's fury while protecting us. Salute to Maharabam Prabo Singh ji's sacrifice 🙏. The nation will always remember his service. Hope the injured personnel recover soon.
R
Rahul S.
Such a tragic way to lose a brave officer. Shows how dangerous anti-Maoist operations are - even weather becomes an enemy. The government should provide extra compensation to his family. CRPF needs better weather monitoring systems in conflict zones.
M
Meena T.
As someone from Manipur, I'm proud but also heartbroken. Our northeastern brothers serve in toughest conditions across India. Hope his sacrifice reminds people that Manipur contributes equally to nation's security. Rest in peace, brave son of the soil.
A
Arjun P.
Lightning deaths are preventable! CRPF should train personnel in lightning safety protocols during monsoon ops. This is the 3rd such incident this year. Modern forecasting tech could save lives - worth the investment when we're losing experienced officers.
S
Sunita R.
My father served in CRPF. These men operate in jungles with no proper shelter, carrying 20kg gear. People don't realize their daily struggles. This officer died serving far from home - true patriotism. His family deserves lifelong support 🇮🇳
V
Vikram J.
While we mourn, let's also question why Maoist problem persists after decades? Development in tribal areas is key. Security ops alone won't solve this. My respects to the officer, but we need long-term solutions to prevent more deaths on both sides.

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