War veteran Mohiram Bey passes away in Diphu

DIPHU — Mohiram Bey, a 1971 war veteran passed away on Sunday midnight due to cardiac arrest in Diphu town of Karbi Anglong district, Assam. He was 82 years old and is survived by his wife, sons and a daughter.

People from all walks of life visited his residence at Rongcheklam to pay their last respects to the senior citizen. His mortal remains were cremated at the Rongcheklam cremation ground on Tuesday.

Mohiram participated in the 1971 Indo-Pak war as a member of the Karbi community. He joined the Indian army (Assam Regiment) on July 15, 1961, and underwent initial training at ‘Happy Valley’ in Shillong for one year and was later posted at Kherubosti area in Srinagar. In 1970, he was transferred to Kapurthala in Punjab.

When tensions escalated between India and Pakistan in 1971, Mohiram was shifted to Wada, near the international border, where he played a role in safeguarding the country.

Bey entered Songke Bosti, which was within Pakistan's jurisdiction, from Atari railway station- the last Indian station before the war broke out. His unit exchanged bullets with the enemy, enveloping the area in smoke and fire. Eventually, the Pakistan army surrendered leading to the end of war.

During the conflict, Bey was stated to have knocked unconscious in a valley but rescued by one of his colleagues.

After the war, Bey was posted in various places including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland. He retired from the army on September 7, 1990.

During the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack, it was informed that he had expressed a desire to join the fight, if necessary, showcasing his lifelong commitment. Bey also received eight medals for his service during the Indo-Pak war.

Besides, Bey had also served as a Physical Trainer (PT) at Modern English High School, Diphu, after his retirement from the army. He was known for his discipline, dedication and contributions towards the national cause and promoting education among his community.