Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik Honoured by Manipur and Assam Rifles for Heroism in ‘Operation Sindoor’
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla felicitated Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik, Vir Chakra awardee of the Indian Air Force, for his exemplary role in striking targets inside Pakistan during ‘Operation Sindoor’. The ceremony was held at Raj Bhavan in Imphal, where the Governor lauded Malik’s courage and dedication, calling him an inspiration for the youth and a matter of pride for the nation.
The Manipur government had earlier announced an award of ₹10 lakh for the officer, who hails from Keikhu village in Imphal East. Malik, accompanied by his parents Alhaj Hafizuddin and Alhajan Waheeda Rehman, expressed gratitude for the recognition.
The state also paid tribute to late BSF Constable Deepak Chingakham, another Vir Chakra awardee from Manipur, who sacrificed his life during Operation Sindoor in cross-border firing at the RS Pura sector in Jammu. He sustained fatal injuries on May 10 and succumbed the following day.
The Manipur government announced ₹10 lakh ex-gratia for his family, while the Manipur Police appointed his younger brother, Naoba Singh, as an Assistant Sub-Inspector in honour of his sacrifice. BSF officials praised his courage, and his father Bonibihari Singh expressed pride in his son’s martyrdom.
In a separate ceremony, the Assam Rifles also honoured Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik at Mantripukhri Garrison in Imphal West. The felicitation, led by Inspector General Major General Ravroop Singh, celebrated Malik’s precision strikes and his contribution to the success of Operation Sindoor.
Malik, commissioned into the IAF in 2015 as a Su-30MKI fighter pilot, was awarded the Vir Chakra on India’s 79th Independence Day. His family was also honoured during the event, with their support recognized as vital to his achievements. An alumnus of Sainik School Imphal and the NDA, Malik stands as a proud symbol of Manipur’s tradition of valour and service to the nation.
