Forty-year old Shivappa, who had completed 19 years in the CRPF, would have retired next year. He had returned to duty after spending some time with his wife, Netravathi and son Chetan only recently.

Shivappa was looking forward to the retired life in his village next year, but fate seemed to have willed otherwise. To add to the poignancy, Shivappa who was posted in Bihar till recently was transferred to  Chattisgarh only a week ago on special duty, as his regiment was deployed as part of Operation Green Hunt anti-naxal drive.
Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa on Wednesday announced an ex-gratia of Rs one lakh to the family members of Shivappa. The body is expected to arrive in Bangalore on Thursday.