A deathly silence continues to descend on the Thane residence, ever since Waibhav Kale’s family received the unfortunate news of his death.
Former Indian Army officer Waibhav Anil Kale, who worked for the United Nations in Gaza, lost his life while travelling in a vehicle, which was going to Khan Younis Area’s hospital from Rafah.
Speaking to ANI, Anil’s aunt Mugdha Ashok Kale said, she is still trying to process this fact, that he is no more.
Recounting her ordeal, the aunt of retired colonel said “When we heard about Waibhav, it came as a big shock. We still can’t believe he is no more. We hadn’t even seen much of him in the recent past. However, it feels he still with us in spirit. Even though the bitter truth comes out eventually, our minds aren’t ready to accept and reconcile with it. Hence, for us, Waibhav is still alive.”
Later, his cousin Chinmay Ashok Kale, praised his brother for his dedicated service as an army officer and as a UN staffer.
Praising his brother, Chinmay said “He was very active and always up to something since childhood. However, he was also very dedicated to his family and would catch up and spend time with us whenever he could. Patriotism and service to the nation run in the veins of the Kale family. It was his grandfather’s wish that he join the forces. He sat for the exam on several occasions but couldn’t crack it. However, he did not lose heart and kept at it till he finally fulfilled his grandfather’s dream by being drafted into the army.”
Meanwhile the sister-in-law of Slain UN staffer, also spoke highly about him. And said “When he joined the forces, it wasn’t just about putting his life on the line for the country, as per the highest traditions of the army, but also about living for his homeland. When Waibhav joined the army, he was ready to give his all for the country.”
Earlier, the Permanent Mission of India to United Nations, on Tuesday too gave its condolences to the family.
Later, the deputy spokesman of Secretary-General Farhan Haq, also expressed sadness. In addition, he also announced, that secretary-general condemns all such attacks on UN personnel.
Also, the secretary-general also reiterated his stand of immediate humanitarian ceasefire and release of all hostages.
“With the conflict in Gaza continuing to take a heavy toll – not only on civilians but also on humanitarian workers – the Secretary-General reiterates his urgent appeal for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and for the release of all hostages. “said the General-secretary Statement.