Police Martyrs’ Day, observed on October 21 every year in India, honours and remembers police officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. It is a day to pay tribute to the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of these police officers who laid down their lives to maintain law and order and protect the community. Notably, on Police Martyrs’ day, the National Police Memorial holds a great significance. It is a solemn monument located in New Delhi. It is dedicated to honoring the brave police personnel.
Taking to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted: “On Police Commemoration Day, we laud the relentless dedication of our police personnel. They are pillars of great support, guiding citizens through challenges and ensuring safety. Their unwavering commitment to service embodies the true spirit of heroism. A heartfelt tribute to all the personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
On Police Commemoration Day, we laud the relentless dedication of our police personnel. They are pillars of great support, guiding citizens through challenges and ensuring safety. Their unwavering commitment to service embodies the true spirit of heroism. A heartfelt tribute to…— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 21, 2023
Home Minister Amit Shah also shared of a ceremony in National Police Memorial, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.
Speaking at the ‘Police Commemoration Day’ in National Police Memorial, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. https://t.co/0HH0kLJzwZ— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 21, 2023
Police Martyrs’ Day: History
Police Martyrs’ Day has its roots in a tragic event that occurred on October 20, 1959. On that day, three reconnaissance parties were dispatched from Hot Springs in North Eastern Ladakh as a part of the Indian expedition heading towards Lanak La. While two of the parties returned to Hot Springs later that day, the third one, consisting of two Police Constables and a Porter, did not return.
A search was immediately organized, led by DSP/DCIO Shri Karam Singh. Tragically, the party encountered the Chinese Army personnel, and a confrontation ensued where the Chinese forces opened fire and threw grenades. The Indian team had little cover, resulting in injuries to most personnel.
Ten brave Police Personnel lost their lives, and seven others were injured. The injured were taken as prisoners by the Chinese. The bodies of the ten martyred personnel were eventually returned by the Chinese on November 13, 1959, three weeks after the incident. In honor of their sacrifice, their bodies were cremated with full Police honors at Hot Springs.
Recognizing the valour and sacrifice of these gallant martyrs, the Annual Conference of Inspectors General of Police of States and Union Territories in January 1960 decided to observe October 21 as “Commemoration Day” or Martyrs’ Day.
They also agreed to construct a memorial at Hot Springs. Every year, police personnel from different parts of the country trek to Hot Springs to pay homage to these brave souls.
Police Martyrs’ Day: Significance
The day serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks that police officers face daily and acknowledges their unwavering commitment to upholding justice and maintaining peace in society. It is an opportunity for the community to show support for law enforcement and recognize their vital role in maintaining a safe and harmonious environment.
How the brave hearts are honoured
On Martyrs’ Day, the brave hearts are honoured through several solemn rituals:
- Reversal of Arms (Shok Shastra)The arms are reversed as a sign of mourning and respect for the departed souls.
- Observing Two Minutes SilenceA moment of silence is observed to pay homage to the fallen heroes, reflecting on their sacrifice and dedication.
- Reading Names of Police MartyrsThe names of police martyrs from various states, police, and paramilitary forces are read aloud, acknowledging and honoring the supreme sacrifices they made.
- Three Volleys of ShotsThree volleys of shots are fired as a symbolic mark of respect, further commemorating the sacrifices of the martyrs.
Importance of National Police Memorial
The National Police Memorial situated at Chanakyapuri, New Delhi holds a great significance. It is a prominent landmark and a place of national importance. The memorial was inaugurated on October 21, 2018, by Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day.
According to reports, the design of the memorial is inspired by the National Police Memorial in Washington, D.C., USA. It consists of a 30-foot tall bronze sculpture of a police officer holding a folded flag, paying homage to the fallen heroes.
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