JNM | Journalist Hardeep Jamwal | Jammu
On the 127th birth anniversary of Brigadier Rajendra Singh, considered a symbol of unparalleled bravery and sacrifice in Jammu and Kashmir’s history, the demand for him to be awarded the country’s highest honor once again gained momentum. Representatives from the military, administration, veterans, and various social organizations paid heartfelt tributes to Brigadier Rajendra Singh at a tribute ceremony held at the Tiger Division War Memorial in Jammu.
Speakers during the event noted that in 1947, when Pakistan-backed tribal invaders attacked Jammu and Kashmir, Brigadier Rajendra Singh, with only about 100 soldiers, faced thousands of invaders and held them back from advancing toward Srinagar for several days. His courageous actions gave the Indian Army the time it needed to reach Srinagar and defend Kashmir.
Speakers at the tribute ceremony stated that if Brigadier Rajendra Singh had not risked his life to fight the enemy, Kashmir’s history could have been different. He played a decisive role in keeping Kashmir united with India.
Several senior military officers and dignitaries, including 99-year-old retired Major General Govardhan Singh Jamwal, participated in the event. Speakers reiterated their demand for upgrading Brigadier Rajendra Singh’s Mahavir Chakra to the Paramvir Chakra, saying he deserved this honor in recognition of his extraordinary courage and sacrifice.
Calls were also made for the Bharat Ratna, declaring June 14 and October 27 as National Memorial Days, and incorporating his heroic saga into the national education curriculum. Speakers emphasized that the country’s new generation should know how a brave soldier played a historic role in saving Kashmir with his indomitable courage.
It is noteworthy that Brigadier Rajendra Singh was posthumously awarded the Mahavir Chakra on December 30, 1949, becoming independent India’s first recipient of a gallantry award. However, military experts and former soldiers believe that he has not yet received the national recognition he truly deserves, commensurate with his contributions and sacrifices.
At the end of the program, those present appealed to the Central Government to re-evaluate Brigadier Rajendra Singh’s contributions and give him appropriate national honors.
