Narwal, who hailed from Karnal, Haryana, received an emotional farewell, attended by family members, including his father Rajesh Narwal and maternal uncle, along with hundreds of mourners. Former Cabinet Minister Madan Kaushik and several BJP workers also paid their respects at the site.
After the ceremony, Rajesh Narwal spoke to the media, stating, “My son laid down his life for the nation. I only pray that no other family has to experience this pain.” The atmosphere at Har Ki Pauri was charged with emotion, with many attendees moved to tears during the immersion.
Earlier, Narwal’s father expressed his faith in the government to ensure justice, describing the loss as “unbearable and irreplaceable.” He said, “The government is doing its work, and we trust them to deliver justice… Vinay was an exceptional child, and he died as a brave soldier… The country is with me, and I hope God gives strength to my family to endure this overwhelming pain. My daughter-in-law has suffered the most… PM Modi and Amit Shah have taken significant steps… The fact that PM Modi cut short his visit to return here is a significant gesture,” he remarked to reporters in Karnal.
He praised his son as a brilliant student who consistently excelled academically. “He aspired to be a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force, but due to his height, he wasn’t selected, so he chose to serve in the Indian Navy instead… We have complete confidence in the government and are hopeful that they will take the necessary actions,” he added.
On Wednesday, Lieutenant Narwal was honored with last respects, including a formal procession and a rifle salute, followed by a cremation ceremony conducted with full military honors in his hometown of Karnal.
The naval officer had recently married, with his wedding reception taking place just days before on April 16. Lt Narwal was in Jammu and Kashmir on leave and was in Pahalgam with his wife when terrorists opened fire.
During the solemn military ceremony, the widow of the late naval officer delivered an emotional farewell, remembering her husband as a man of honor who left behind a legacy of courage. Through tears, she found the strength to share her final thoughts, reflecting both sorrow and pride: “I hope his soul rests in peace. He lived a good life and made us proud, and we should carry that pride in every way,” she said, her voice shaking with emotion.
The devastating attack on April 22 claimed the lives of 26 people, all targeted by terrorists while visiting tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
