CM unveils statue of late Principal Badyal

Jammu, July 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today unveiled the statue of Late Principal Kuldeep Kumar Badyal at Government Gandhi Nagar Boys Higher Secondary School, Jammu.In a statement issued here, the ceremony paid homage to the educator who was martyred while performing his duties. The solemn event was attended by dignitaries including senior government officials, legislators, educators besides students and the public.Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the sacrifice of Principal Badyal will “forever remain a guiding light” for society, especially students. He added, “Our society and cultural values hold teachers in the highest regard. Badyal was steadfast in his duty when he was killed in a planned murder. His life and dedication must always light the path of students.”He also announced that the school will be renamed in the late principal’s memory, as a mark of enduring respect. “His life teaches us that one must have steadfast dedication towards one’s duty. That is a great virtue we must all inculcate. Fearless conduct of duty must be our ideal attitude,” he added.Omar Abdullah then interacted with the martyr’s family, including his children Dr. Ashima Badyal and Ashish Badyal and extended his heartfelt condolences. He remarked that Former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah, too, would be gratified by today’s tribute to KK Badyal.Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani and Minister for Health & Medical Education, School & Higher Education, Sakina Masood Itoo, were present at the occasion.Minister Sakina Masood Itoo stated that the ceremony was organised on the instructions of the Chief Minister. She conveyed her shock and anguish that such a dedicated educationist could fall in the line of duty and emphasised the need to reinforce moral and social values among students.Also in attendance were Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma, along with legislators Vikram Randhawa and Dr Sajjad Shafi.MP Jugal Kishore Sharma expressed that the honour today will be a source of pride and inspiration for the Badyal family.MLA Vikram Randhawa recalled the tragic events and expressed deep sorrow while paying tribute to the late principal.Senior officers, including Secretary, School Education Department; Director, School Education; Director, Samagra Shiksha and Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, were also present