New Delhi, January 24: A Muslim bus driver who outsmarted the terrorists and saved lives of 52 Amarnath pilgrims in 2017 has been honoured with the ‘Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak’ award. Sheikh Salim Gafur- the bus driver exhibited his exemplary courage when a group of terrorists attacked a bus carrying Amarnath pilgrims last year.

‘Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak’ award is the second highest gallantry award for civilians while 'Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak' is the highest honour given to civilians for gallantry. Gafur was quoted by ANI saying, “I'm receiving the award & should've been happy but the incident makes me sad, learnt to never be scared, salute Army for taking down terrorists”

Ahead of India’s 69th Republic Day, the Home Ministry on Wednesday announced that Gafur has been selected for the honour as he displayed some rare grit and bravery and continued to drive the bus of the Amarnath pilgrims. A home ministry official informed that the pilgrims came under attack by the militants on July 10, 2017, in Jammu and Kashmir.

To recall, seven Amarnath pilgrims were killed and 14 others injured when terrorists opened fire on the bus Gafur was driving near Batengoo in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Around 52 other bus passengers escaped unharmed due to the presence of mind and bravery of the driver. Besides, the award, Gafur will also be honoured with Rs 1 lakh cash at a special function later.

A total of 795 Police personnel have been awarded Medals on the occasion of the Republic Day this year.  Police Medals for Gallantry (PMG) have been awarded to 107 personnel, President’s Police Medals for Distinguished Service to 75 personnel and Police Medal for Meritorious Service to 613 personnel.

Among the 107 Gallantry Awards, 66 are from J&K theatre, 35 from the areas affected by Left Wing Extremism and three from the North-East Region. Among the personnel receiving Gallantry Awards, 38 are from J&K Police, 35 from CRPF and 10 from Chhattisgarh. This year five Officers from the Indian Police Service will receive the Police Medal for Gallantry.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 24, 2018 07:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).