Survived Kargil, But Not Bahrain - A Stroke of Fate

Indian Embassy and the firm which hired Stephen Abraham, the Indian expatriate who lost his life in clashes in Budaiyya on Wednesday are in the process of expediting the arrangements to repatriate the body.

Mr. Abraham came to Bahrain sixteen months ago to work as a security guard with Al Moayyed Securities, and had joined work after the undergoing training and getting the license from the Ministry of Interiors. Prior to coming to Bahrain, he had served in the Indian army for 18 years.

Facing death and dangerous situations was not uncommon for Mr. Stephen who, along with his elder brother Siby had served in the military during the Kargil War. He had joined the Indian Army in 1991 and served in Kashmir till 1994. Post that, he served in Assam in 1995-’96 and then in Batinda in Punjab between 1997 and 2000. During 2001, he participated in the Operation Vijay and Operation Parakram against Pakistan.

“He was a dedicated and hardworking employee, always giving his best for the job. He was also a very devotional person,” said security division manager Jose Alex. “Every employee is valuable to us, and we will do everything to take care of his family.” Mr. Jose added that steps were taken to ensure the safety of all other employees and that they have been shifted away from that location.

He is survived by wife Annie, daughter Steny and son Steffin. Steny, an 8th grader and 3rd grader Steffin were eagerly waiting for Easter, when they hoped their father would return. Hailing from Kerala, Mr. Stephen is the second among three sons of retired army man SK Abraham and wife Podiyamma. His family also includes elder brother Siby, younger brother Simon and sisters Shobana and Mariyamma.


I spoke to many people who had met him in Bahrain, and they only had good things to say. It is surreal that a man who had fought death itself had to lose his life in what was considered the most peaceful place on Earth.

RIP.