126th birth anniversary of Brig Rajinder Singh observed with military honours

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, June 14: Jammu and Kashmir today observed the 126th birth anniversary of Brigadier Rajinder Singh, Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), with rich tribute and patriotic fervour.
Known as the “Saviour of Kashmir”, Brig Singh was remembered across the Union Territory for his supreme sacrifice in 1947 that helped save Jammu and Kashmir from falling into enemy hands.
In this regard, the main event was organised by the Jammu and Kashmir ex-Services League (JKESL) in collaboration with the Indian Army at Rajinder Chowk.
Major General Mukesh Bhanwala, GOC Tiger Division, was the chief guest on the occasion, who laid a wreath at the statue of Brigadier Singh.
A ceremonial guard from 19 JAK Rifles paid tribute with full military honours. The gathering included serving Army personnel, ex-servicemen, students and members of civil society.
Brigadier Singh led just 100 Dogra soldiers to stop nearly 5,000 Pakistani raiders in 1947, delaying them long enough for the Maharaja to sign the Instrument of Accession with India.
He was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, the first in independent India.
Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma (Retd), President JKESL, appealed to the Government to declare October 26 as a state function in Brigadier Singh’s honour and recommended that his MVC be upgraded to Param Vir Chakra or he be awarded the Bharat Ratna.
He also demanded a gateway be constructed at Raya road in his memory and a chapter on him is included in school textbooks.
Meanwhile, another commemorative event was held at Rajinder Singh Park, Canal Road, where former Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta and senior BJP leaders paid floral tribute to Brigadier Rajinder Singh.
Speaking on the occasion, Gupta said Brigadier Singh’s unmatched courage and patriotism saved Jammu and Kashmir from invasion in 1947 and his sacrifice must be taught in schools to inspire the younger generation.
He said it is vital for students to learn about such national heroes who shaped the destiny of India.
Gupta added that Brigadier Singh’s legacy is not just military history but a powerful reminder of duty and devotion to the nation.
“Every citizen, especially the youth, must draw inspiration from his life and contribute positively to society and the nation,” he said.
Senior BJP leaders including Pramod Kapahi, Arun Prabhat, Anju Dogra, Parveen Arora, and Anu Rajesh Gupta were also present.
They said Brigadier Rajinder Singh’s sacrifice remains a shining example of courage and leadership and called for greater recognition of his role in preserving the sovereignty of Jammu and Kashmir.

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