West Bengal, Purba Bardhaman: In Purba Bardhaman District, as in the rest of India, Police Martyrs Memorial Day is solemnly observed each year on October 21. This significant day commemorates the tragic incident in 1959, where 10 Indian policemen were martyred during an ambush by the Chinese army. The event holds deep historical significance, as it was one of the earliest skirmishes marking tensions between India and China. The day is dedicated to remembering and honoring the courage, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice of these brave policemen, as well as all police personnel across the country who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The observance of Police Martyrs Memorial Day began officially in 1960, following the incident at Hot Springs in northeastern Ladakh on October 21, 1959. On that fateful day, a police force led by Shri Karam Singh was dispatched on a search mission to locate a missing party of fellow officers. As they traversed the difficult terrain near the Indo-Tibetan border, they encountered a surprise attack from the Chinese army. This unprovoked assault resulted in the martyrdom of 10 policemen, while 7 others were taken captive by the Chinese soldiers. A few managed to escape the onslaught. The attack not only shocked the nation but also underscored the increasing border tensions between India and China.
In a gesture of political maneuvering, three weeks later, the Chinese army returned the bodies of the 10 martyred policemen to India. The nation was engulfed in grief, and the bravery of these officers became a rallying point for India’s determination to protect its borders. Recognizing the need to honor their sacrifice, in January 1960, the Indian government officially designated October 21 as Police Martyrs Memorial Day. This day was not only to honor the fallen policemen of the Ladakh incident but also to pay tribute to every police officer who has given their life in the line of duty, safeguarding the country and its citizens from various threats.
In remembrance of their valor, it was also decided that a monument would be constructed in Ladakh, at the site of the ambush, to serve as a permanent symbol of their courage. Over the years, this day has evolved into a broader national observance, and since 2012, Police Martyrs Memorial Day has been commemorated at a national level across the country. On this day, police units throughout India organize memorial ceremonies and pay their respects to the martyred officers. The entire police fraternity, along with the public, takes a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have laid down their lives in service to the nation and society.
This year, as in previous years, a poignant commemoration ceremony was held in West Bengal, organized by the West Bengal Police. The event took place this morning at the parade ground adjacent to Bhavani Bhavan, the headquarters of the West Bengal Police in Kolkata. The ceremony was attended by numerous senior officers, including State Police Director General (DG) Shri Rajeev Kumar and Armed Police DG Shri Anuj Sharma, along with other dignitaries and officials from the police force. The event began with a solemn parade, followed by the laying of wreaths at a memorial to honor the martyred policemen.
As part of the ceremony, the officers in attendance paid their respects with a two-minute silence, remembering not only the martyrs of the 1959 Ladakh incident but also every police officer who has sacrificed their life in the line of duty. In addition, speeches were delivered by senior officers, emphasizing the importance of remembering the bravery and dedication of police personnel, the challenges they face, and the crucial role they play in maintaining law and order. The ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of the police force’s commitment to continue serving the nation with courage and integrity, just as those who had given their lives had done.
The commemoration of Police Martyrs Memorial Day serves as a powerful reminder of the risks that law enforcement officers take every day to ensure the safety and security of the nation. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance for the countless unsung heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice, allowing India to live in peace and safety.
