Following the tragic deaths of two Naga Indian Reserve Battalion (IRBn) personnel on election duty in Bihar due to heat stroke on May 26 and 31, another IRB personnel died under similar conditions on Saturday. The deceased, identified as Constable Wetelhou Chakhesang (10 IRBn) hailed from Lasumi village, under Pfutsero sub-division, Phek district.
Talking to Nagaland Post, Director General of Police (DGP) Nagaland, Rupin Sharma reported that three personnel have died due to heat stroke while on election duty in Bihar. Constable Akangluba died on May 26, while Havildar Nikiye Sumi died on May 31. The third IRB personnel, who suffered a heat stroke on May 31 and was admitted to the hospital in critical condition, passed away around 5:25 a.m. on Saturday, Sharma said.
DGP further disclosed that five more male IRB personnel have been admitted to the hospital but were reported to be in stable condition. He also informed that one female IRB personnel was admitted to the hospital on Friday morning but was discharged the same day.
When asked about the number of personnel deployed for duty, Sharma mentioned that 10 companies were in Odisha (5 companies of 14 IR, 4 companies of 9 IR, 1 company of 12 IR), 7 companies in Punjab (4 companies of 13 IR, 3 companies of 12 IR), 6 companies in Bihar (4 companies of 10 IR, 1 company of 15th IR, 1 company of 9 IR), and 2 companies in Uttar Pradesh (2 companies of 10 IR). Currently, 6 companies are deployed in Bihar, with only one female company deputed.
Sharma added that de-induction from Odisha and Punjab is scheduled for June 6, while the remaining companies are awaiting further instructions from the Election Commission of India regarding de-induction.
Patton condoles: Deputy chief minister, in-charge of Home, Y Patton expressed deep sorrow over the passing of constable Wetelhou Chakhesang from the 10th NAP (IR), who succumbed to heat stroke while on election duty in Bihar.
Patton said, “The passing away of one of our brave hearts, Wetelhou Chakhesang, due to heat stroke during election duty in Bihar is deeply saddening.” His commitment and service to the nation will always be remembered and honored, he stated. Patton conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.