MC Sharma's name recommended for Ashok Chakra

The Delhi police has recommended the name of its encounter specialist Mohan Chand Sharma, who was killed in a gunbattle with suspected Indian Mujahideen terrorists, for the Ashok Chakra, the country's highest peace time gallantry award.

"We have written to the government to consider Sharma for the highest gallantry award during peace time -- the Ashok Chakra," Delhi Police Commissioner Y S Dadwal said, addressing the force's annual press conference in New Delhi on Friday.

Sharma, the Inspector with Delhi Police's elite anti-terror wing, had laid down his life on September 19 last year while fighting suspected Indian Mujahideen terrorists, allegedly involved in the Delhi serial blasts.

"He was an officer of outstanding record. He was a man of rare courage and dedication," Dadwal said.

Asked why other officers of the Special Cell involved in the gunbattle were not given promotions or any other incentives, Dadwal said they were waiting to see what the government will do.

On the morale of Special Cell personnel, he said it was 'very high' and they were able to tackle any challenge assigned to them.

Dadwal countered suggestions that the force was ill-equipped, saying that they have  modern weapons like MP-5s and the AK series.