Haryana Police Inspector Honored with State Funeral After Fatal Rescue Attempt
The mortal remains of 58-year-old Haryana Police Inspector Jagdish Prasad were cremated with full state honors on Sunday in his native Dengar village, Uttar Pradesh. Inspector Prasad succumbed to severe injuries sustained while heroically rescuing victims after a giant swing collapsed at the Surajkund fairgrounds in Palwal district.
Emotional Final Rites on Yamuna Banks
The last rites were performed with traditional rituals on the banks of the Yamuna River, where his son Gaurav lit the funeral pyre. Hundreds of villagers and residents from nearby areas gathered to pay their final respects to the fallen officer, creating a somber atmosphere of collective mourning.
Palwal Superintendent of Police Varun Singla paid tribute to Prasad's extraordinary bravery, stating that "every Indian is proud of his dedication and courage". SP Singla personally consoled the grieving family members during the emotionally charged ceremony.
Tragic Accident at Surajkund Fair
The fatal incident occurred on Saturday evening around 6 PM when approximately 19 people were riding the giant swing at the popular fair. Witnesses reported the swing suddenly tilting before crashing violently to the ground, resulting in the police officer's death and leaving several others with injuries.
Inspector Prasad, who had joined the Haryana Armed Police in 1989 and was scheduled to retire in March after completing 36 years of distinguished service, was among the first responders to the accident scene. Senior officers confirmed he sustained life-threatening injuries while attempting to rescue people trapped beneath the collapsed structure.
Heroic Rescue Efforts Described by Family
Prasad's nephew Prashant, who was present at the fairground during the tragedy, provided a detailed account of his uncle's final moments. "When the swing broke, Jagdish uncle was the first to engage in rescue operations. He began pulling out those trapped beneath the swing," Prashant told reporters.
"He had already rescued some people and was still trying when the broken swing tilted too far towards him, trapping his neck. He suffered serious injuries. After this, he was taken to the hospital but could not be saved," the grieving nephew added, highlighting the inspector's selfless actions until his last breath.
Family's Heartbreaking Loss
Inspector Prasad's son Gaurav shared poignant memories of his father's final promise. "He had promised to meet again only after the fair was over, but that meeting proved to be the last," Gaurav revealed emotionally. "One of my sisters had to get married in November, but everything is shattered now."
Government Support and Compensation Announced
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed profound condolences and assured comprehensive support for the bereaved family. "I assure the family members that the government stands with them in every possible way. We will provide all possible assistance," the Chief Minister stated.
"Along with this, the police officer who was martyred will be provided with financial security, as he was on duty there. We will also provide a government job to one of his children," CM Saini added, emphasizing the state's commitment to honoring Inspector Prasad's ultimate sacrifice.
The tragic incident has highlighted both the dangers of amusement ride safety and the extraordinary bravery of first responders who risk their lives to save others. Inspector Jagdish Prasad's legacy of service and sacrifice will be remembered by the community he served and the nation he protected until his final moments.
