26-Year Wait for Land Ends in Suicide Attempt by Kargil Veteran in Chikkaballapura

BENGALURU, Sept 3 : A Kargil War veteran in Chikkaballapura allegedly attempted suicide after waiting for 26 years for the allotment of two hectares of land that he claims was due to him as a disabled ex-serviceman.

The retired soldier allegedly consumed pesticide on Wednesday, reportedly unable to bear the prolonged delay in the allotment of land he had been seeking since his military service. He was rushed to a hospital and is currently undergoing treatment in Bengaluru.

Police said the veteran's statement will be recorded once doctors declare him medically fit.

The veteran joined the Indian Army in 1987 and served with the Maratha Light Infantry. He was injured during the 1999 Kargil War.

Earlier this year, he had written to the Tahsildar of Chintamani seeking the allotment of two hectares of land, pointing out that his request had remained pending for 26 years.

In his letter, the veteran expressed anguish over what he described as prolonged official inaction despite his service to the nation. He questioned whether authorities could not find land for a disabled ex-serviceman who had waited for more than two decades and wondered whether his decision to serve the country had been a mistake.

The veteran had also warned authorities that they would be responsible for any untoward incident if his demand was not addressed.

The incident has raised serious questions over how a Kargil veteran's plea for land remained unresolved for 26 years despite repeated efforts.

Police are expected to record his statement after his condition improves.