'I am leaving Wayanad with a heavy heart', says Malayali Lt. Rishi Rajalakshmi

MEPPADI: Lieutenant Colonel Rishi Rajalakshmi, a Malayali soldier deeply connected to Wayanad, expressed that while his body may leave the region, his mind remains anchored there. Rishi, who sustained severe facial injuries during a mission against terrorists in Pulwama, Kashmir, continues to serve the nation while wearing a full-time veil due to his injuries.

Rishi's unit arrived in Wayanad the day after the recent disaster and since then, he has been tirelessly leading rescue efforts. "I am proud to have been able to serve during this disaster in Wayanad. Many in the affected areas have lost everything. It is essential that society stands together to support them," he said.

The rescue operation posed significant challenges due to the drastic changes in the landscape caused by the disaster. Rishi praised the local rescuers for their commendable work. "As a Malayali, I am leaving Wayanad with a heavy heart," he added.

Rishi was seriously injured during a terrorist encounter on March 4, 2017. He and his team were deployed after receiving intelligence about terrorists hiding in a villager's house in South Kashmir's Pulwama. During the operation, Rishi suffered severe facial injuries. Former Army Chief General Bipin Rawat described him as "the most fearless man." A native of Muthukulam, Alappuzha, Rishi currently serves as the main in-charge of Pangode Military Camp.