R Pugazh MuruganA team of 15 brave soldiers stationed at their Battalion Headquarters in Chowkibal started on a routine patrol amidst heavy snowfall and treacherous road conditions. Led by Junior Commissioned Officer Nayab Subedar Padam Bahadur Chetri, they detected suspicious activity near Dhudhi post on the night of May 5, 1991. Despite facing terrorists armed with AK-47s, the team launched a proactive strike, initiating a six-hour firefight that extended into the dawn of May 6.
In a remarkable display of courage and tactical prowess, the soldiers neutralized 72 terrorists, captured 13, and seized numerous weapons. This operation, conducted at an altitude of 14,000 feet, claimed the lives of Rifleman Ram Kumar Arya and Rifleman Kameshwar Prasad, with Rifleman RK Yadav sustaining injuries. Their valorous actions solidified Dhudhi, conducted by the Assam Rifles, as one of the deadliest yet most successful counter-insurgency operations teams.
Established in 1835 as the Cachar Levy by the British to protect northern India’s tea plantations, the Assam Rifles evolved into India’s oldest paramilitary force. Renamed in 1917 to honour their contributions to World War I, the unit played a pivotal role in World War II, earning multiple gallantry awards for reconnaissance and civilian evacuation efforts in Burma.
Post-independence, the Assam Rifles continued to safeguard India’s northeastern region, conducting crucial counter-insurgency operations and protecting borders. Their enduring legacy includes escorting the Dalai Lama to safety in 1959 and asserting India’s territorial claim in 1961 by hoisting the national flag at Chokhan Pass.
With over 65,000 soldiers across 46 battalions, the Assam Rifles operate under the dual control of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the operational command of the Indian Army. Their commitment to security, highlighted by operations like Dhudhi, reflects their unwavering dedication and earns them the nation’s admiration and respect.