Kargil Vijay Divas observed in Manipur

Imphal, July 26 (UNI) Kargil Vijay Divas was observed today in Manipur which was organised by Rajya Sainik Board at Imphal.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh led the state in honouring the supreme sacrifices made by valiant soldiers during the Kargil conflict.

Floral tributes were offered at the Martyrs memorial at Imphal followed by a guard of honour, general salute with bugle and sounding of the last post.

Artistes of Bal Mukul Dev Government Music College presented patriotic songs on the occasion. The BJP, Manipur unit also observed the day at the BJP office, here in which party President, Dr H Borobabu and others offered floral tributes to the martyrs.

Retired army personnel who were present in large numbers narrated the chain of events that led to the Kargil War. After Pakistani intruders were sighted in Batalic sector in May 1999 and enemy force started patrolling at Mushkoh, Brass, Kaksar, Kargil and Batalic areas.

Their aim was to occupy strategic heights dominating the vital Leh- Srinagar highway. Indian Artillery from the Barrel of Medium Gun, Bofors, Field Gun and Rockets Launchers from the ground and Fighter- Bombers from the Air attacked during the monsoon season on the enemy position.

On July two, Toloring was captured by 2 Rajput Rifle and 13 Jammu&Kashmir Rifle, 18 Grawal Rifle and 1 Naga Regiment captured point 5140 complex.

On July 3 Tiger Hill at a height of 16,500 ft Rock peak was attacked by 18 Grenadiers and 8 Sikh combined force under the command of Gdr Yogender Singh Yadav. On July three night,the entire complex was captured. Gdr Joginer Singh Yadav was awarded Param Vir Chakra, the highest award for bravery in battle.

On July four, RFL Sanjay Kumar and Capt Vikram Batra of 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifle captured 4875 Point (now renamed Gun hill) after a stiff fight.

The complete force was finally evicted on July 26, 1999, and the day has since been observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas. Manipur lost five brave soldiers during the Kargil operation.

UNI NS BA AB LS DS1630