Daijiworld Media Network - Madikeri (SP)

Madikeri, Nov 21: The mortal remains of Guruprasad (29), resident of a village near Bhagamandala, who was killed during an encounter between the Naxals and police near Horanadu near Koppa on November 19, was cremated at around midnight  on Wednesday November 19, after the body reached his native place, with full state honours.

Guruprasad was the only son and last of the six children of Mukkati Nanjappa and Lalita couple from Kundacheri village in Kodagu district. The family believes that Lord Bhagandeshwara of Bhagamandala had blessed them with a son after five daughters, paying heed to their prayers. He joined the KSRP fifth battalion in 1999 and took part in the anti-Veerappan operations. 

Senior police officials including DIG Kempaiah accompanied the body. The family members were in a state of shock and grieving uncontrollably over the sudden demise of Guru, who supported his family.

On behalf of the state government, deputy speaker of the assembly K G Bopaiah paid last respects. Deputy commissioner (DC) M K Baladev Krishna, superintendent of police Suresh, headquarters assistant to the DC Chikkatimmaiah, various officials,  villagers, friends and relatives had gathered for the cremation.

DIG Kempaiah said that Guru would have been saved if he had not got up from where he was squatting. "All the policemen were squatting on the ground to dodge the naxal bullets but Guru got up from his position when he was shot at. That mistake cost him his life," he explained.

K G Bopaiah reiterated the government resolves to decimate the naxals by strengthening and rejuvenating the anti-naxal force.

Guru's family was very much worried about the anti-Veerappan operation in which their son was involved, and heaved a sigh of relief when Veerappan was gunned down. They never thought that their beloved Guru would lose his life in this way. Guruprasad was to come home on leave for his cousin's marriage, scheduled for November 20 and 21.