Birbhum, (West Bengal): On the night of June 15 2020, Indian troops clashed with Chinese troops in the Galwan valley region of Ladakh. Exposed to sub-zero temperatures and facing a larger opposing force, Indian jawans fought with Chinese forces for six hours. The bloody conflict saw fierce hand-to-hand combat between the Indian and Chinese soldiers. The skirmish claimed the lives of 20 Indian soldiers of the 16th Bihar Regiment.
Among them was 26-year-old sepoy Rajesh Orang. He is was only earning member of his family as his father is bed-ridden. To top it all his sister is unmarried. His family is hoping the government provides aid.
Every year on the day of Bhaifonta/ Bhaidooj, Shakuntala Orang of Birbhum used to wish her elder brother a long life with a drop of Chandan (Indian Sandalwood) on his forehead. Without fail, Rajesh used to come home for Durga Puja every year. But this year's Bhaifonta/Bhaidooj is different. This year there is only sorrow for the family.
The news of her elder brother's martyrdom first came on sister Shakuntala's phone, a person for whom she used to wait on the day of Bhaifonta/ Bhaidooj. Now he will never come back. Hence the poor girl feels devastated and is in a deep depression.
