Shillong, Aug 16: Major David Manlun, a young Indian Army, who died during an encounter with militants in June this year, was honoured with Kirti Chakra, the second highest peacetime gallantry medal on the eve 71st Independence Day.

Late Manlun of the 164 Brigade of the Territorial Army was killed during an encounter with militants in Nagaland’s Mon district on June 6.

Three militants belonging to NSCN(K) and Ulfa(I) were also killed during an encounter at remote Lappa village in Mon district close to the India-Myanmar border.

Manlun’s father, M. Khamzalam, also a retired subedar in the Assam Regiment expressed his gratefulness while welcoming the decision of the Central government to honour his son with Kirti Chakra.​

Late Manlun’s mother also expected the same gratitude would be shown by the State government.