Ashok Chakra for cop killed in Jamia Nagar encounter

Inspector Mohan Chand Sharma, who was killed in the Batla House encounter, will be posthumously decorated with Ashok Chakra, the highest peacetime gallantry award in the country.

Inspector Mohan Chand Sharma, who was killed in the Batla House encounter, will be posthumously decorated with Ashok Chakra, the highest peacetime gallantry award in the country.

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Sharma’s name was cleared by the Prime Minister’s Office two days ago.

Police Commissioner Y.S. Dadwal had recommended Sharma’s name for the award in October last year.

“We have received a letter from the Government of India informing us that my son would be awarded the gallantry award on Republic Day. We are extremely happy and I am proud of him,” said Narottam Sharma, the slain inspector’s father.

Sharma died fighting against suspected Indian Mujahideen members in an encounter in Jamia Nagar on September 19, 2008, a week after the Delhi serial blasts.

Sharma’s wife Maya would posthumously receive the award on Republic Day. He has two children Himani and Devanshu.

Sharma joined Delhi Police in 1989 as a sub-inspector. In 1995, he was elevated to the post of inspector through an out-of-turn promotion. He was posted with the Special Cell of Delhi Police.

His name was cleared after a forensic report establishing the fact that there was a “cross firing” at Batla House.