Honour for Major Gogoi matter of pride for Indians: Jitendra

The honour given to Army officer Major Leetul Gogoi, who had tied a man to a jeep as a human shield against stone-pelters in Kashmir, is a matter of pride for all patriotic Indians, Union minister Jitendra Singh said today.
He said in the recent past, an atmosphere of fear was being created by certain persons to make people believe that those who abuse India are the ones who are only talked about.
"So there were people, who kept faith in patriotism, had to face disappointment. Such an announcement (of rewarding the Army officer) at this time has led to the feeling of pride and honour of the people. We are entirely indebted to the Indian Army," said Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office.

Major Gogoi, who had tied a man to a jeep during polling in the Srinagar Lok Sabha by-election on April 9, was honoured yesterday with the Army Chief's Commendation Card for his sustained efforts in counter-insurgency operations.
Addressing a press conference, Singh said the honour to the Major was the country's way to show its reverence to the Army's professional aptitude and commitment.