Kamal Kant Batra, the former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and mother of the revered Kargil War hero Captain Vikram Batra, breathed her last in Himachal Pradesh at the age of 77. Her demise marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of courage and sacrifice.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu of Himachal Pradesh extended his heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the profound loss. “Received the sad news of the demise of Mrs. Kamalkant Batra, mother of Captain Vikram Batra. We pray to God to give strength to the bereaved family to bear the immense sorrow,” he expressed.
Kamal Kant Batra, who contested the 2014 Lok Sabha polls from Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, under the AAP banner, later distanced herself from the party due to dissatisfaction with its functioning and organizational structure. Reflecting on her decision, she remarked, “I was deeply unsatisfied with the functioning and the organizational structure of AAP.”
Despite her political journey, Kamal Kant Batra’s heart remained with the nation and its well-being. She shared her thoughts on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, stating, “For Mr Modi, I feel that he is trying his best… Nationalism and patriotism are the two points that should always be kept in mind.”
Her son, Captain Vikram Batra, immortalized in Indian history for his unparalleled bravery during the Kargil War, continues to inspire generations. Known by various titles such as the “Tiger of Drass” and the “Lion of Kargil,” Captain Batra’s courage and determination set a standard for heroism.
The Bollywood movie “Shershaah,” starring Kiara Advani and Sidharth Malhotra, pays tribute to Captain Batra’s valor and sacrifice. The film captures his most challenging mission, the capture of Point 4875, where he earned the moniker “Shershaah” for his fearless leadership.
Recalling his remarkable feat, colleagues remember Captain Batra’s selflessness and indomitable spirit. Despite facing enemy fire and adverse conditions, he led his contingent with unwavering resolve, epitomizing the ethos of bravery and sacrifice.
Retired army general Lt Gen Satish Dua reminisced about Captain Batra’s iconic words, “Yeh Dil Mange More…!”, which ignited the spirit of an entire nation. His legacy lives on as a beacon of courage and inspiration for all. Kamal Kant Batra’s passing marks the end of a chapter, but her family’s sacrifice and contribution to the nation will forever be etched in history.
Sources By Agencies