The last rites procession for ASP Akash Rao Giripunje, who sacrificed his life in a Naxal IED blast in Sukma’s Konta region, took place from his home in Kushalpur, Raipur. The air was filled with the chants of ‘As long as the sun and moon exist, Akash, your name will live on,’ as the procession moved forward. The event saw the presence of the Collector, the Municipal Commissioner, the CEO of the District Panchayat, government officers, Rao’s family, and a large number of citizens. The environment was heavy with grief and respect. The mortal remains of the courageous officer were then taken to Mana for the final salute.
Akash Rao hailed from Raipur and served as a State Police Service officer, having been inducted in 2013. He left his banking career to pursue his dream of serving the public, passing the Chhattisgarh PCS examination to join the police force. On Monday, he met a tragic end in a pressure IED blast orchestrated by Naxals in Sukma, leaving other officers wounded. Known for his bravery and honesty, Akash Rao had been the recipient of numerous gallantry awards. His demise has evoked a wave of mourning across the police department and the entire city.