Arjun Sharma.
A brave soldier, who was disabled while fighting in the Kargil war, is still waiting for the government’s promised help even as the country is observing the 12th anniversary of the victory.
Mohammad Rafiq, 45, a resident of Behrote in Rajouri district, has been running from pillar to post since 2001 for the petrol pump that was promised to him by the government when he lost his right hand and was severely injured during the war.
Rafiq of 12 JAKLI was posted in Batalik sector in 1999 as wireless operator.
“Around 150 personnel got ready to capture a hill that was occupied by the Pakistani army during midnight. I was asked by an officer to connect to the base to convey that we had taken position and were ready to attack. As soon as I was connecting to the base, a blast occurred near us. I could not hear anything after that. I was unconscious for nearly 15 minutes and when I came around, most of my colleagues were either dead or severely injured,” he said.
“The firing from Pakistani machine guns did not stop from the top of the hill while no one from our side could retaliate due to injuries,” he said, adding that he later realised that a piece of splinter had pierced his right arm.
“I was rushed to Leh, later to Srinagar and then to Delhi for treatment,” he said. The army declared that Rafiq was 80 per cent disabled and he was promised a petrol pump. “I have submitted all the documents. But nothing has been done. I have six children. Taking care of their education and other expenses is becoming difficult day by day” Rafiq said. “I thought the government would appreciate someone fighting for the country but I have not seen anything positive.”
Rafiq was given a compensation of Rs 13 lakh. “But I should have got Rs 22 lakh as per the rules,” he added. He has sent several letters to the petroleum ministry for the gas station. ” Every time they reply saying the matter is under consideration. I don’t know when I will get what I deserve,” he said.
-via India Today
