Associated News Bureau

Ladakh LG VK Saxena Pays Tribute to Police Martyrs, Honours Seven Personnel Who Laid Down Their Lives

Leh, October 21: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena on Tuesday paid homage to police martyrs by laying a wreath at the Police Memorial at District Police Lines in Leh on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day. The ceremony honoured the courage, dedication and supreme sacrifice of police personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting the nation and its citizens. Observed annually on October 21, Police Commemoration Day commemorates the sacrifice of 10 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel who were martyred on October 21, 1959, at Hot Springs in Ladakh during an encounter with Chinese troops. Their bravery in defending the country's territorial integrity remains a lasting symbol of patriotism, courage and devotion to duty. The occasion holds particular historical significance for Ladakh, where the events that led to the observance took place. The day is marked across the country to honour police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. During the ceremony, Ladakh Police paid tribute to seven of its personnel who were martyred in the line of duty over the years: Inspector Tsewang Namgial, Sub-Inspector Stanzin Norboo, Assistant Sub-Inspector Sonam Dorjay, Constable Ghulam Abass, Constable Shabir Hussain, Constable Zulfikar Ali and Constable Mohammad Raza. The Roll of Honour was read out in solemn remembrance of the fallen personnel, whose sacrifice remains an enduring part of Ladakh Police's legacy. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor paid tribute to police martyrs across the country, including personnel of Ladakh Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Police Forces and intelligence agencies. He also expressed solidarity with the bereaved families, acknowledging the immeasurable loss they have endured and reaffirming the Administration's commitment to their dignity, welfare and continued support. Saxena commended Ladakh Police for maintaining law and order and safeguarding public security despite the region's challenging geographical and climatic conditions. He highlighted the demanding nature of policing in the high-altitude region, where sub-zero temperatures, heavy snowfall, difficult terrain and remote settlements pose significant operational challenges. He also lauded the force's role in disaster response, winter road blockades, high-altitude rescue operations and emergencies involving stranded residents and tourists, describing its personnel as trusted guardians of the community. Their dedication and compassion, he said, have helped strengthen public confidence and promote peace and stability across the Union Territory. Emphasising the importance of peace and security for Ladakh's continued development, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the Administration's commitment to modernising the police force. Key priorities include strengthening surveillance and communication systems, providing advanced winter equipment, improving healthcare and housing facilities, and enhancing forensic capabilities. He also underscored that the welfare of police personnel and their families would remain a priority for the Administration. A blood donation camp was organised as part of the Police Commemoration Day observance. Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, Director General of Police Ladakh Anand Jain, senior police officers and family members of the martyred personnel attended the ceremony.