'RIP Bitan. No one else's sindoor should be wiped away like mine': Wife of US-based techie

KOLKATA: "My sindoor was wiped off by terror. As the govt avenges his death, I am sure my husband is watching somewhere from above today and his soul can finally rest in peace," said Soheni Adhikari (37), wife of Florida-based techie and Patuli resident Bitan, on Wednesday. This was hours after India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 on April 22.Bitan (40), a software engineer based in Kolkata who worked in Brandon, Florida, was among the three victims from Bengal who died in the terrorist attack at Baisaran Valley - a tourist spot often called "Mini Switzerland" for its picturesque landscape.Soheni earlier told TOI that one of the gunmen stuck the gun's nozzle between Bitan's shoulder and chest and asked him to read a Kalma - the six Islamic phrases of faith, which are fundamental prayers that Muslims often recite, particularly in religious teachings and daily practice. When he failed to do so, and identified himself as a Hindu, he was shot."I and all others who lost their loved ones on April 22 had just one wish - we wanted justice. That is all we wanted from the govt, and today, the govt has taken that action and served justice," she said on Wednesday.The widow, and mother of one, Soheni appreciated the name Operation Sindoor. For her, and the families of the other victims, justice was the only balm that could ease the unbearable pain. On Wednesday, they saw the first signs of that justice."I had faith in the govt, and today, they've delivered. I am especially moved that they named the operation after what I lost - my sindoor," she said, hands folded in gratitude, voice choked with emotion.At Bitan's home, relief mixed with sorrow. Bitan's ageing father, Bireshwar, who was unwell, reportedly found new strength after hearing of India's action. "He was glued to the news since morning," said Shankar Chakraborty, Bitan's uncle. "For the first time in days, he looked alert. The family thanks the govt for acting decisively."Since the attack, Soheni has struggled with trauma and depression, relying on medication and therapy. "She's shattered and is regularly dependent on medication now," said her brother-in-law. "Even little Hridaan needs counselling. This loss has scarred us forever. But today's news has brought a flicker of peace."Even in her grief, Soheni made a heartfelt appeal for peace. "I do not support war. War means more innocent blood. I just want to request the govt to ensure that no other woman loses her sindoor like I did."