Galwan Martyr's Mother Bikkumalla Manjula Steps Into Political Arena
In a poignant transition from personal tragedy to public service, Bikkumalla Manjula, the mother of Galwan Valley hero Colonel Santosh Babu, has entered the political fray by contesting municipal elections. The bereaved mother, whose son made the ultimate sacrifice during the 2020 clash with Chinese troops, is now channeling her grief into community development as the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) candidate for Ward 44 in Suryapet municipality.
A Mother's Resolve to Serve
"My son laid down his life for the country. As a mother, I now want to work for the development of the people in my area," Manjula declared with quiet determination. She expressed unwavering confidence that with the blessings of the people, she would secure victory as a councillor and transform her ward into a model division. Her campaign is deeply rooted in continuing Colonel Babu's legacy of selfless service and dedication to the nation.
Party Recognition and Family Support
According to BRS sources, the party actively approached Manjula while searching for a suitable candidate in Ward 44. After discussions with local leader Krupakar from a neighboring ward, who conveyed her willingness to contest, the party leadership formally offered her the ticket. This decision reflects the party's recognition of her family's sacrifice and her personal commitment to public welfare.
Following the tragic Galwan incident, the then BRS government demonstrated substantial support for the bereaved family through several measures:
- Announcement of Rs 5 crore ex gratia compensation
- Allocation of a house site for the family
- Provision of a deputy collector's position to Colonel Babu's wife, Santoshi
BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao, who served as chief minister at the time, personally visited the family in Suryapet to offer condolences and support during their darkest hour.
Honoring a National Hero
Colonel Santosh Babu's extraordinary bravery and leadership during the Galwan Valley clash were posthumously recognized with the Maha Vir Chakra in 2021, India's second-highest wartime gallantry award. This prestigious honor underscores the magnitude of his sacrifice and the nation's gratitude for his service.
Development Vision for Suryapet
Manjula highlighted the significant transformation Suryapet has undergone during BRS governance, stating, "There is a sea change in Suryapet town in terms of development. Wide roads, lake development, a medical college, and other development works happened in 10 years of BRS rule." She expressed profound gratitude toward KCR for his support during her family's difficult period and acknowledged the overwhelming solidarity her family received from Suryapet residents and citizens across India.
"When my son was martyred, our family received support from entire Suryapet and the country. Now, I hope I will be able to serve the people of my ward," she affirmed, emphasizing her commitment to reciprocating the community's kindness through dedicated public service.
This electoral journey represents more than just political participation—it symbolizes a mother's tribute to her martyred son and her determination to create positive change in her community, carrying forward a legacy of patriotism and service that transcends personal loss.
