Kohima, 21 October (MTNews): Joining the rest of the country, Nagaland Police observed the Police Commemoration Day today. The solemn occasion was marked by a ceremonial parade at the Police Headquarters Kohima to pay rich tributes to police personnel who had laid down their lives in the line of duty.
Director General of Police (DGP) Nagaland Rupin Sharma, several senior police officers, different police battalions, and the Dogs squad of DEF Kohima laid wreaths and paid respects to 189 Police personnel who had sacrificed their lives across India in the service of the Nation.
Director General Rupin Sharma emphasized the origin of the day, rooted in a tragic event from 1959. He recounted the heroic rescue mission led by DCIO Karam Singh, where a group of Indian police personnel stationed in the Aksai Chin area of Ladakh faced an ambush by Chinese forces. Tragically, ten Indian policemen made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty on that fateful day.
Their mortal remains were handed over by the Chinese on November 13, 1959, and were cremated at the hot springs in Ladakh on the 14th of November. To honor their memory, a martyrs’ memorial was erected at the location, and each year, a Police delegation braves the extremely challenging altitude of 16,000 feet to pay homage at this site.
Highlighting the historic significance, Director General Sharma informed that it was in 1960, following a conference attended by the heads of Police from all states of India, that October 21 was officially designated as Police Commemoration Day throughout the country. The day serves as a tribute not only to those who lost their lives in Ladakh but also to the countless Indian Police Men and Women who have laid down their lives while performing their duty.
He emphasized that the day is an occasion to honor the unwavering courage, dedication, and sacrifices made by law enforcement officers who tirelessly work to ensure peace and security in the nation. It is a solemn reminder of the heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their fellow citizens, defending against both internal and external security threats, some of which remain unseen.
The DGP acknowledged the relentless efforts of police personnel who work day and night, often making personal sacrifices to safeguard the safety and well-being of citizens. Their dedication and commitment are commendable.
“Today, it is with heavy hearts that we remember the 189 Indian Police personnel who made the ultimate sacrifices by laying down their lives to secure the internal security of our country. Among these brave souls, we must recognize two Nagaland policemen L/Nk, T. Zewangba Yim of 3d NAP and CN, Kevisekho Khate of 10 NAP (R) who were part of this sacrifice,” Sharma said.
Mokokchung police pays tribute on Police Commemoration Day
Meanwhile, in alignment with the rest of the nation, Mokokchung Police observed Police Commemoration Day by conducting a ceremonial parade at New Reserve, Mokokchung. This solemn occasion served as an opportunity to pay tribute to police personnel who had made the ultimate sacrifice while on duty throughout the year.
Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, Manojkumar A, IPS, alongside several police officers, laid wreaths at the cenotaph, offering their heartfelt respects to the 189 brave policemen from across India who had laid down their lives in the line of duty. These officers were recognized for their dedicated service in maintaining law and order, preventing anti-social activities, and countering acts of terrorism.
The commemorative program was attended and witnessed by representatives from various organizations, including NPTO Mokokchung, HG/CD & SDRF Mokokchung, Fire Service Mokokchung, Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjen, Chuchuyimpang Village Council, and the All Ward Union Mokokchung.