Galwan martyr Santosh Babu’s mother in poll fray

Hyderabad: Bikkumalla Manjula, mother of Galwan Valley hero Colonel Santosh Babu, who was martyred in the 2020 clash with the Chinese army, has stepped into public life and is contesting municipal elections.She is the BRS candidate for the ward 44 in Suryapet municipality."My son laid down his life for the country. As a mother, I now want to work for the development of the people in my area," Manjula said. She expressed confidence that with people's blessings, she would win as a councillor and transform the ward into a model division. She also promised to continue Santosh Babu's legacy of selfless service.Following the Galwan incident, the then BRS govt had announced Rs5 crore ex gratia for the family, allotted a house site, and provided deputy collector's job to Col Babu's wife, Santoshi. BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao, who was then chief minister, had visited the family in Suryapet to offer condolences.Col Babu was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, country's second-highest wartime gallantry award, in 2021 for his bravery and leadership during the clash.BRS sources said the party, while scouting for a suitable candidate in ward 44, approached Manjula and offered her a ticket to contest as councillor. One BRS leader from the neighbouring ward, Krupakar, spoke to her and informed the party leadership after she expressed her willingness to contest."There is a sea change in Suryapet town in terms of development. Wide roads, lake development, a medical college, and other development works happened in 10 years of BRS rule," Manjula said.She expressed her gratitude towards BRS chief KCR, who had helped her family. "When my son was martyred, our family received support from entire Suryapet and the country. Now, I hope I will be able to serve the people of my ward," she said.