Daijiworld Media Network - Sada
Sada, Feb 27: The coastal locality of Sada witnessed an emotional and historic morning on Thursday as Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar inaugurated the bust of martyr Lt Narendra Mayekar at the renovated Smarak Sthal, developed under MLA-LAD funds.
The ceremony drew a large gathering of residents, members of the martyr’s family, serving and retired defence personnel from across Goa, and several dignitaries. The memorial site, decorated with flowers and the Tricolour, resonated with patriotic fervour as defence units presented honours. Lt Mayekar’s family stood beside the unveiled bust, visibly moved as tributes were paid to the brave son of Sada who laid down his life in service of the nation.
Addressing the gathering, Amonkar described the occasion as a proud moment not only for Sada but for the entire state. He announced that a road in Sada would be officially named after Lt Narendra Mayekar to ensure his sacrifice remains etched in public memory.
“This is a small step to honour a towering sacrifice. Every person who passes through this road should remember the courage of Lt Mayekar,” Amonkar said.
In a significant announcement, the MLA also stated that he would submit a formal proposal to the state government seeking to declare the annual homage programme held in memory of Lt Mayekar as an official government function in the coming years. He said such recognition would institutionalise the tribute and ensure sustained participation from government authorities, defence forces and the public. The announcement was met with applause.
Lt Narendra Mayekar, a resident of Sada and a posthumous Kirti Chakra awardee, was martyred on February 26, 2000, during Operation Rhino in Assam. He led his team in a direct assault on heavily armed ULFA militants who had taken shelter in a hideout. After directing his men to provide covering fire, he advanced to engage the militants. Despite sustaining grievous injuries, he continued the attack, neutralising militants before succumbing to his wounds.
Thursday’s ceremony reaffirmed that Sada has not forgotten its hero. With the bust installed, a road set to bear his name, and efforts underway to grant official status to the annual homage, Lt Mayekar’s legacy has received renewed and enduring recognition.