Thousands line up to pay tribute at farewell for Andhra soldier

TIRUPATI: Time stopped Sunday in Kalli Thanda as the village in Sri Sathya Sai district of Andhra Pradesh mourned and saluted M Murali Naik , an Army soldier killed in exchange of fire with Pakistani forces near Uri in J&K on Friday. People from all walks of life took part in the final rites of Murali (25), the only son of M Ramesh Naik and Jyoti Bai.

As condolences poured in from across the country after he died in the line of duty during Operation Sindoor , Murali's remains were brought to his native village late Saturday night and kept there for people to pay their last respects. His final rites were performed Sunday after the military and police extended the traditional gun salute and other honours. Thousands joined his funeral procession.

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan led other ministers in paying tributes and expressing solidarity with Murali's parents. Pawan promised a bronze statue in memory of Murali in the district headquarters, besides five acres of land and a house plot for the martyr's family.