Commemoration of the Hilli Battle at Bengal War Memorial

Kolkata, Dec 12 (NationPress) A ceremony was conducted by the Army along with the Zilla Sainik Board at Dakshin Dinajpur, West Bengal, on Thursday, to honor the historic Battle of Hilli, which occurred during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971.

Attendees included senior military officials, state government representatives, veterans, NCC cadets, school children, and local community members at the Hilli War Memorial, where wreaths were laid to pay tribute to the courageous soldiers.

Col Partha Pratim Barik, Secretary of the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) of West Bengal, remarked that the Battle of Hilli spanned from November 22 to December 11, 1971, marking it as one of the most intense battles fought by the valiant Indian Army soldiers from highly motivated units.

He explained that there were actually two distinct battles: the first Battle of Hilli took place between November 22 and 24, 1971, and the second occurred on December 10 and 11. The primary aim of the Indian Army was to seize Bogra and isolate Pakistani forces in the north from the rest of East Pakistan. The optimal route to Bogra was through Hilli.

He further noted the uniqueness of this battle, as it commenced before the formal declaration of war on December 3, 1971, and continued until two days after the surrender of Pakistan in Dhaka on December 16.

“The surrender of Pakistani troops at Hilli occurred on December 18, 1971,” he stated.

Col Barik mentioned that the initial strategy was to capture Hilli with the 202 Mountain Brigade, and after Phase-I, the 8 Guards held Morapara, while Noapara was under the control of 22 Maratha Light Infantry, and Basudevpur was taken by 5 Garhwal Rifles.

“However, the 20 Mountain Division, which oversaw the operation, suffered considerable casualties during Phase-I,” Col Barik added.

He highlighted that among those who made the ultimate sacrifice was Lance Naik Albert Ekka, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC) for his extraordinary valor in the face of the enemy.

“Lance Naik Ekka, of 14 Guards, was the only PVC recipient in the Eastern Theatre during the 1971 War,” he explained.

Col Barik pointed out that the operational plan was revised, and the Division successfully captured Durra, Bisapara, Dangapara, and Hilli during Phase II.

“The officers showcased outstanding leadership while directing their troops against fierce enemy fire from fortified positions, demonstrating unwavering courage and commitment. The soldiers they led performed acts of bravery that are unparalleled in military history while facing a well-entrenched adversary,” Col Barik stated.

He mentioned that while Lance Naik Ekka received the PVC, three others were honored with Mahavir Chakras for their roles in the Battle of Hilli.

“These were Lt Col Samsher Singh, Second Lieutenant S S Samra, and Lance Naik Ram Ugrah Pandey. Both Second Lieutenant Samra and Lance Naik Pandey were awarded posthumously,” Col Barik added.