The Biz Reporter
SRINAGAR, Aug 18: In a poignant blend of sorrow and pride, Fatimah Ali cradles her one-year-old son, reflecting on the posthumous Kirti Chakra award bestowed upon her late husband, Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat.
The prestigious peacetime gallantry award recognizes Bhat’s “rare courage” during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in Kokernag, South Kashmir, last September.”I am so proud of the sacrifice made by my husband,” Fatimah says, her voice thick with emotion.
Bhat, just 32, was among four brave officers who lost their lives in the September 13, 2023 encounter. Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Sepoy Pardeep Singh also made the ultimate sacrifice that day.In a gesture of support, two senior Jammu and Kashmir police officers visited Fatimah and her son on Friday.
The Kirti Chakra will be presented by President Draupadi Murmu at an upcoming investiture ceremony.Sitting in a sunlit room adorned with her husband’s portrait, Fatimah shared tender memories.
“He was not just a police officer; he was my partner, my friend, and the father of our son,” she recalled. Young Ali Ashar, gazing at his father’s image, seemed to mouth “daddy,” evoking bittersweet emotions in Fatimah.Determined to uphold Humayun’s values, Fatimah recently accepted a position as an Assistant Professor at Kashmir University, a role offered to Next of Kin of fallen officers.
“I don’t wish to be called the widow of Humayun. My marriage was the finality of my life, and I will always be his wife,” asserts Fatimah, who holds an MPhil in Clinical Psychology.She recounted their last communication – a heart-wrenching video call where Humayun said, “Baby, I am hit. I love you, I am sorry, please take care of Ashar for me.” Their final audio conversation ended with his hopeful words, “I will make it for you and Ashar. I am coming home, baby.”
“He did come home, but in a different way,” Fatimah says, tears streaming down her face.Earlier this year, Fatimah met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his regional visit. “It was reassuring to see that the government acknowledges the bravery of my husband,” she reflected.
As she navigates grief and motherhood, Fatimah embodies resilience, committed to preserving Humayun’s legacy for their son. “The saga of his valour will be a precious treasure for my son as he grows up in this world,” she affirmed, ensuring that Ashar will know his father not just through stories, but through a legacy of bravery and sacrifice that will shape their lives.(Agencies)
