Body of Rajesh who lost life during rescue operations brought home, CM pays tributes

THIRUVANNATHAPURAM: The body of R Rajesh of Kalliyoor in Thiruvananthapuram’s Nemom, who died during the rescue operations in Kannur, has been brought home. The body is kept in front of the nearby primary health centre due to limited space at home. Rajesh was well-loved by the people there.

Everyone coming to pay tributes leaves with tears in their eyes. Chief Minister V D Satheesan, Ministers Sunny Joseph and P C Vishnunath, along with leaders from several political parties, came to offer tributes to Rajesh. He will be laid to rest with full state honours.

Rajesh lost his life while joining Fire and Rescue Services personnel in an attempt to save farmer Benny, who was desperately pleading for help after being stranded at Meenthulli island in Cherupuzha. Although Benny's life was saved, Rajesh was swept away by the strong currents.

His body was recovered on the fourth day of the accident. The body was found yesterday at around 12:45 pm at Kocheri island near the Edavaramba Kanapeedika area in the Kariangode River.

Rajesh was the president of the Kalliyoor Adventure and Disaster Management Club (ADAMS Club) and had been working as a swimming instructor at Edavarambu for the past three months.

He is the son of Rajasekharan and Geetha. His brother, Ranjith, died in the Thampanoor train accident two years ago. He is survived by his sister Asha, his wife Shafiya, and children Arshan and Abhishek, school-going students. The chief minister had informed during a press meet that the government would build a house for Rajesh's family, who is struggling from financial difficulties.