STF Heroes Honored with President's Gallantry Medal for Jhansi Encounter

STF members who killed gangster Atiq Ahmed's son Asad and shooter Mohammad Ghulam in a Jhansi encounter have been awarded the President's Gallantry Medal. The Union Home Ministry announced 1,037 awardees, recognizing exceptional bravery and meritorious service of police, fire service, home guards, civil defence, and correctional services personnel.

In a significant honor, the Special Task Force (STF) members responsible for the elimination of gangster Atiq Ahmed's son Asad and shooter Mohammad Ghulam were awarded the President's Gallantry Medal. The encounter took place in Jhansi on April 13, 2023, as the two were wanted for the Umesh Pal murder case in Prayagraj and carried a reward of Rs 5 lakh each on their heads.

Days later, on April 15, Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf Ahmed were shot dead by assailants during a media interaction. Concurrently, the Union Home Ministry announced the details of 1,037 gallantry and service medal recipients, including police, fire service members, home guards, civil defence personnel, and correctional services staff, to be honored on Independence Day.

The President's Medals for Gallantry and Distinguished Service were awarded across various states and forces, with significant recognitions for bravery and meritorious service. Among the recipients is Chaduvu Yadaiah, a Telangana Police Head Constable, celebrated for his valor during a robbery in July 2022. The awards underscore the exceptional dedication and bravery of these officers in maintaining law and order and serving the nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)