154 Police Personnel Lost in Past Year: IB Director Honours Fallen Heroes
IB Director Dr Mahesh Dixit honours fallen heroes on Police Commemoration Day, revealing the heavy toll of duty since India's independence.
On the solemn occasion of Police Commemoration Day, Intelligence Bureau (IB) Director Dr Mahesh Dixit paid a poignant tribute to the brave souls of the police force who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the nation. Speaking at the National Police Memorial, Dr Dixit revealed a sobering statistic: 154 police personnel have laid down their lives in the line of duty over the past year alone.
A Legacy of Sacrifice Since Independence
The commemoration is not just about the recent losses but a reflection of decades of service and bravery. Dr Dixit highlighted that since India attained independence, a staggering 36,852 police personnel have made the ultimate sacrifice. These men and women served with unwavering dedication to uphold the unity and integrity of the nation and to ensure the safety of every citizen.
The Historic Roots of October 21
The date of October 21 holds deep historical significance for the Indian police forces. Dr Dixit recalled the events of 1959, which serve as the origin of this annual observance. On that day, ten valiant personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), led by Karam Singh, DCIO of the Intelligence Bureau, fought gallantly against an armed Chinese military contingent along the India-China border at Hot Springs, Ladakh. Their bravery in the face of an ambush led to the establishment of Police Commemoration Day to ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten.
Nationwide Tributes and Ceremonies
The day was marked by tributes across the country, with programs held in state capitals, various districts, and at local police stations. At the national level, a joint commemorative parade was organized at the National Police Memorial, featuring a strong presence from multiple forces, including:
- Border Security Force (BSF)
- Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
- Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
- Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
- Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
- National Security Guard (NSG)
- Assam Rifles
- Railway Protection Force (RPF)
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- Delhi Police
Following the recommendations of the Prime Minister during the 2019 Conference of Directors General and Inspectors General of Police, the commemorations will extend beyond a single day. From October 22 to October 30, various Central Armed Police Forces will organize events at the National Police Memorial, with the families of the fallen personnel participating in these tributes.
Prime Minister Modi Praises Unwavering Dedication
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also joined the nation in paying solemn tributes to the fallen heroes. In a post on X, the Prime Minister lauded the remarkable commitment and bravery of police personnel who often operate under the most challenging circumstances.
"Police Commemoration Day is an occasion to express our deepest gratitude to our police personnel, who serve with remarkable commitment, often in the most challenging circumstances. From maintaining law and order to combating crime, responding to emergencies and ensuring the safety of citizens, their contribution is invaluable," PM Modi stated.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the courage and supreme sacrifice of these brave individuals will forever remain etched in the memory of the nation.