Palampur loses another son Palampur, July 8 — The town lost another young Army Officer in Kargil. Captain Vikram Batra (23) son of Mr G.L. Batra, Principal in Government Senior Secondary School, here belonged to 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and was on his first posting to Kargil. Last week Captain Batra had succeeded in capturing 5140 peak in Drass sector. Only two days ago General V.P. Malik, Chief of the Army Staff, had personally congratulated him for his successful mission in capturing 5140 peak. His name was also recommended for Mahavir Chakra.

The news of the death of Captain Batra spread like wild fire in the town. Hundreds of people gathered outside the residence of Mr Batra and raised anti Pakistan slogans.

Body of the young soldier is likely to reach here by tomorrow evening and cremation would take place on Saturday with full military honour. Nation's highest wartime gallentry award PARAM VIR CHAKRA was awarded to Captain Vikram Batra on 15th August 1999.