Dear Friends,
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I have been reading a lot on the observance of the Martyrs day or I would call such days as Remembrance/Memorial days. While fully appreciating the writings of one and all, especially those of Anant Bewoor and CP Joshi, I would like to add some more data and thoughts, in deciding to give a final shape to this issue.
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I personally feel that the Indo-Pak War of 1947-48 (Oct 1947 Accession on 26 Oct 1947) and Sino –Indian War of 1962 (20 Oct – 20 Nov 1962), dates be excluded from observance of any day, because that was the time when in spite of the bravery displayed by our gallant soldiers, our heads were made to hang in shame at the humiliations suffered at the hands of the adversaries. In fact, these days should be totally forgotten from our memories all together, as far as observance of Remembrance days is concerned. The Indo-Pak War of 1947-48 did have some positives, leading to the signing of Accession Instrument on 26 October 1947, but that does not accord any significance to the forces efforts.
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In the Indo-Pak War-1965, the honours have been considered as even though, tilting slightly towards Indian side. Except for the tales of bravery of a number of our war heroes, nothing significant exists, for according status of Remembrance day. Well, the Indo-Pak War-1971 (3-16 December 1971) has all the ingredients for being included as a Remembrance day, as under the able and inspiring leadership of Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw, India secured a great victory, and truly humiliated Pakistan by taking over 90,000 POWs, as well as ensuring birth of a new Nation, Bangla Desh. So, there is every reason for the Indian Armed Forces to observe or even celebrate 16 December as Victory Day or Vijay Diwas. If somehow we could link the name of our dear and most popular soldier, the Field Marshal, with this day, it would be most appropriate and ideal.
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To commemorate Kargil War-1999 (May – Jul 1999), 26 July is already being observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas or Shahidi Diwas. We should not now meddle with it, and let it be observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas or Shahidi Diwas as heretofore.
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Lastly, the Flag Day of 7 December could also remain as it is, as decided by the Indian Government in 1949. Yes, collection of Alms/Chanda could be discontinued. The Army, Navy and Air Force days could also continue to be observed as heretofore with their observance/celebrations be as decided by the respective Services Chiefs. Similarly, the arms' and services' days may also continue to be obsrved as heretofore.
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I would request all readers to go through these views and give their counter or supporting views, so that the final decision could be taken at the appropriate level for implementation.
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With Regards & Cheers to all.
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Col LK Anand Retd
