Karnataka: War veteran breathes his last; wish unfulfilled due to coronavirus

Kodagu: The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has brought the world to a grinding halt. Someyanda Cariappa, a retired soldier from Karnataka, who took part in 1962 and 1965 wars against China and Pakistan respectively, passed away due to old age related illness. He had expressed his desire to donate his body to a hospital for research studies. About 15 years ago, he had willed his body to a private medical college in Mysuru.

But 15 days ago, he got a call from the hospital, informing him of their reluctance to accept his body due to the coronavirus pandemic and further asked him to make alternative arrangements for his funeral. He passed away on June 24. The 90-year-old was cremated in Kodagu, Karnataka. But the sad part is that the pandemic did not allow him to realise his dream of donating his body. He had also worked as a security in-charge in a Pune company. A few years ago, his wife had passed away.