The Police Commemoration Day was solemnly observed on Tuesday at the Police Lines, paying heartfelt tributes to the brave police and paramilitary personnel who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s unity and integrity.
Police Commissioner Swapan Sharma led the ceremony, honouring the fallen heroes of Punjab Police and paramilitary forces.
Accompanied by former Director General of Police DR Bhatti, Additional Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar, and other dignitaries, Sharma praised the Punjab Police as an exemplary force, steadfast in serving the nation during both peaceful and turbulent times.
He highlighted their courage in combating militancy and maintaining internal security, noting that 117 Ludhiana police personnel made the ultimate sacrifice during the dark days of terrorism in the state.A poignant moment in the ceremony was the reading of the names of police and paramilitary personnel who laid down their lives in the past year, acknowledging their supreme sacrifice.
Sharma emphasized that the freedom and security enjoyed today are a result of these martyrs’ bravery. He reaffirmed the Punjab Police’s unwavering commitment to serve the border state with dedication and valour.
The Police Commissioner also assured comprehensive support from the Punjab Government and Punjab Police to the families of the martyrs.“We stand firmly with the families of our brave martyrs, ensuring every possible assistance to honour their sacrifices,” he stated.
History of Police Commemoration Day
Police Commemoration Day traces its origins to October 21, 1959, when a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) patrol party, led by Sub-Inspector Karam Singh, was ambushed by Chinese forces at Hot Springs in Ladakh, resulting in the loss of 10 jawans.
Since then, every year on October 21, police units across India hold commemoration parades to honor the sacrifices of police martyrs. The ceremony includes reversing arms and observing a two-minute silence, followed by reading the names of fallen personnel from state police and paramilitary forces, paying tribute to their selfless service.