Is the Low-key Beating Retreat Ceremony Resuming at 3 India-Pak Border Points in Punjab?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the Beating Retreat ceremony is set to resume at three border points between India and Pakistan in Punjab. This scaled-down event follows a 10-day ceasefire and a 12-day pause amid military tensions. Spectators are invited to witness this iconic ceremony, which has been a symbol of peace since 1959.
Key Takeaways
- The Beating Retreat ceremony resumes after a 10-day ceasefire.
- It will occur at Attari-Wagah, Hussainiwala, and Fazilka borders.
- There will be no traditional handshake or opening of gates with Pakistan.
- Local residents are encouraged to attend the ceremony.
- This event has been a tradition since 1959.
Chandigarh, May 20 (NationPress) Following a 10-day ceasefire between India and Pakistan, the Beating Retreat ceremony conducted by the Border Security Force (BSF) will resume today in a more subdued format at the Attari-Wagah, Hussainiwala, and Fazilka borders located in Punjab.
This revival comes after a 12-day hiatus due to military tensions between the two nations.
According to officials, as reported by IANS, there will be no handshake with the armed forces on the Pakistani side, nor will the border gates be opened; however, spectators can still witness the ceremony.
The ceremonies are scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Attari border near Amritsar, the Hussainiwala border in Ferozepur, and the Sadqi border in Fazilka.
The Border Area Development Front has urged local residents to arrive at Sadqi by 5:30 p.m. to enjoy the event in large numbers.
Typically, hundreds of attendees, including foreign visitors, gather to observe this ceremony.
The Beating Retreat has been a unique and captivating event that electrifies the audience on the borders of both nations near Amritsar, showcasing a military exercise and the lowering of the national flags of India and Pakistan at dusk since 1959.
Border guards on both sides often exchange sweets during special occasions like Diwali, Eid, Independence Day, and Republic Day.
The Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post, located about 30 km from Amritsar and 22 km from Lahore, Pakistan, features a gallery that can accommodate around 25,000 spectators for the flag-lowering ceremony.
It was closed to spectators in early March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. India also chose to halt the tradition in 2019 amid rising ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Following the surgical strikes by Indian forces in September 2016, the BSF refrained from exchanging sweets with the Pakistan Rangers.
Point of View
We recognize the importance of the Beating Retreat ceremony as a symbol of peace and camaraderie between two nations. Its resumption, even in a limited format, serves as a reminder of the enduring hope for harmony. We stand with the nation, advocating for peaceful dialogue and resolution.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Beating Retreat ceremony?
The Beating Retreat ceremony is a ceremonial military practice reflecting the lowering of national flags by border guards of India and Pakistan at dusk, which has taken place since 1959.
Why is the ceremony being scaled down?
The ceremony is scaled down due to the recent military tensions and the ongoing ceasefire between India and Pakistan, leading to restrictions on certain traditional practices.
Can spectators attend the ceremony?
Yes, spectators are allowed to attend the ceremony, but there will be no handshake with armed personnel on the Pakistani side or opening of the border gates.
When and where is the ceremony taking place?
The ceremony will take place today at 6 p.m. at the Attari border near Amritsar, Hussainiwala in Ferozepur, and Sadqi in Fazilka.
What is the historical significance of the ceremony?
The Beating Retreat ceremony symbolizes the military tradition and cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan, fostering a spirit of unity and peace.
