A retired colonel of Indian Army lost Rs 35.30 lakh in a digital arrest fraud case. After realising about the fraud, the 81-year-old victim lodged a police complaint and following investigation, the Cyber Police Station here has registered a case….

A retired colonel of Indian Army lost Rs 35.30 lakh in a digital arrest fraud case. After realising about the fraud, the 81-year-old victim lodged a police complaint and following investigation, the Cyber Police Station here has registered a case.

The complainant, Col Parupkar Singh (retd), a resident of Sarabha Nagar, told the police that he had received calls from some unknown people who posed themselves as CBI and police officials. They informed him that his name emerged in some hawala racket and he would face strict action.

“The suspects told me that I have been digitally arrested in the case and will face legal action as per law. They forced me to transfer Rs 35.30 lakh in bank accounts provided by them. Later, I realised that I was cheated by cyber fraudsters, following which I lodged a police complaint,”the complainant told the police.

ASI Sukhdev Singh said after registering a case further investigation was launched to identify and arrest the suspects.

Notably, Padma Bhushan awardee $1-billion worth Vardhman Group CMD SP Oswal was among the victims, who alone had lost Rs 7 crore in the country’s one of the biggest cyber frauds reported so far in Ludhiana. Oswal had received a WhatsApp call and the caller posed himself as a CBI officer from the Mumbai office. The caller told Vardhman Group owner that he has opened a fake bank account in Canara Bank and a case has been registered against him in the CBI. Now, his case is being transferred to the ED. Oswal was further threatened while putting him under digital arrest through a Skype video call for an initial 24 hours. Similarly, many cases of cyber fraud with similar modus operandi were reported in the city in the past.

Operation was launched by different units of Army in Bhattal area on Saturday after villagers reported suspicious movements in Jogiwan forest area

A search operation to track down terrorists, whose movement near the Line of Control (LoC) in Akhnoor sector was reported last week, entered the second day on Sunday with forces deploying drones and other latest equipment, officials said.

The operation was launched by different units of the Army in Bhattal area on Saturday after the villagers reported the suspicious movements in the Jogiwan forest area. They suspected these were infiltrating terrorists.

The search operation is going on with more troops mobilised to cover more area even as there was no trace of the suspected persons so far, the officials said.

They said security forces have deployed drones and other latest equipment besides the sniffer dogs to sanitise the area, while police parties have also joined the search operation.

Three heavily armed terrorists of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) were eliminated in a two-day-long operation in the Akhnoor sector on October 28 and 29 last year.

When World War II broke out in 1939, Subedar Richhpal Ram of 4 Rajputana Rifles was on two months’ leave at his village Barda in Gurgaon district. Barda was known in the region as ‘Faujion ka gaon’ since almost every…

When World War II broke out in 1939, Subedar Richhpal Ram of 4 Rajputana Rifles was on two months’ leave at his village Barda in Gurgaon district. Barda was known in the region as ‘Faujion ka gaon’ since almost every household had at least one member who was serving or had served in the defence services.

Soon after the war started, most faujis on leave in the village received recall telegrams one after another. They cut short their leave and returned to their paltans (battalions). Upset due to the non-receipt of a telegram for many days, Subedar Richhpal unilaterally decided to rejoin his paltan. Janaki, his wife, told him to wait, but he argued that the telegram meant for him had perhaps been wrongly addressed or got misplaced in transit. He insisted that his soldier’s creed demanded his service and it was time for him to prove his wafadari (loyalty) towards his paltan and his country.

During his send-off at the tonga stand, Richhpal said to his wife, “Main ulto aaungo, morcho jeet ke aaungo. Aur jai ulto na aa payo to iso kuchh karjango ke mhari poori biradari tere pe garv karegi” (I will return victorious. But if I don’t come back, I would have done something for which our entire clan will be extremely proud of you).

Sadly, he did not return from the war, but he kept his promise. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross.

Fast-forward to the middle of 1999, when the war clouds were gathering over Kargil. Some officers and jawans of the 17 Jat battalion were on leave. Realising the operational urgency, the battalion adjutant, Major HS Madan, started sending recall telegrams. Major Deepak Rampal, ‘Delta Company’ Commander, 17 Jat, was on long leave, preparing for the staff college exam scheduled for September 1999. Unwilling to disturb Major Rampal during his preparations, the Commanding Officer, Col US Bawa, thought of sending a recall notice to him later, when the war became imminent.

Col Bawa was pleasantly surprised when he saw Major Rampal, carrying a rucksack, walk into the battalion’s operational room. When asked what made him rejoin without receiving the recall telegram, he replied: “Sir, I heard on the radio news about Pak infiltration in the Kargil sector. I also read in the newspaper about the missing patrol of 4 Jat led by Lt Saurabh Kalia and the torture inflicted upon him and his men. I also saw coffins of our soldiers being brought to their villages. Did I need to know more and see more to take a decision?”

Within a fortnight of his rejoining the battalion, Major Rampal led his ‘Delta Company’ during an assault on the formidable Whale Back feature strongly held by Pakistani troops. After a night-long fierce fight, including hand-to-hand combat, the Whale Back was back in Indian hands. Major Rampal received a well-deserved Vir Chakra.

Not just Richhpal and Rampal, all Indian soldiers have always been like that — a class apart. For them, their country and their paltan are supreme. Leave is too small a privilege for them.

PM Modi is set to inaugurate the tunnel in J&K on January 13

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir on January 13 — a vital step in providing all-weather access to Ladakh along the Srinagar-Leh National Highway.

Located at an altitude of 8,652 ft above sea level, the 6.5-km two-lane tunnel will provide round-the-year connectivity between Gagangir, nearly 68 km east of Srinagar, and Sonmarg, a popular tourist destination further on. Named after the Z-shaped twisting stretch of road, the tunnel, burrowing through the mountains, will by-pass the avalanche prone area that used to get blocked for extended periods and cut down the travel time from two hours or so hours to just about 15 minutes. Built under the aegis of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), its construction had started in May 2015.

The NH-1 that connects Ladakh to Srinagar and there on to the rest of India remains closed for almost six months in a year due to heavy snow on several high mountain passes en route. The situation is the same on the alternate Manali–Leh axis, where the passes are even higher.

The Z-Morh tunnel is a critical component of the Zoji La tunnel project, conceived to establish uninterrupted road connectivity between Ladakh and Srinagar. The under-construction 14-km long U-shaped Zoji La tunnel, situated further east from Z-Morh, will do away with the need to negotiate the 11,575-ft pass, said to be among the world’s most treacherous. Zoji La Tunnel, laying in Kargil district, is expected to be completed in another two years’ time.

The immediate significance of commissioning the Z-Morh tunnel is that it will boost tourism and provide convenience to the civilian populace of Sonmarg area that needs to travel down to Srinagar and Jammu for their personal requirements.

It is only after the Zoji La Tunnel is complete that the true strategic value of these under-the-mountain bypasses will be realised. The all-weather road connectivity to Ladakh will greatly enhance India’s defence posture and logistics capability in the Kargil and Ladakh sectors, where Indian troops are deployed on the Line of Control and Siachen against Pakistan as well as the Line of Actual Control against China.

Similarly, a series of tunnels are also to come up on the Manali–Leh highway. While the first of these, Atal Tunnel under the Rohtang Pass ahead of Manali in Himachal Pradesh, was opened in 2020, the work has commenced on a tunnel to its north under the Baralacha La on the Himachal–Ladakh border. Tunnels are also planned under Tangang La and Lachung La on this route in Ladakh. These three passes are at an altitude of over 15,000 ft.

A third axis to Leh has also been opened recently. This route from Manali, which lies to the west of the main highway, is through the Zankakar Valley over the 16,800-ft Shinku La, leading to Padum in Kargil. The construction of a tunnel under the Shinku La received environmental clearance last year. These tunnels are part of the Central Government’s India China Border Roads initiative, an expansive project to build up strategic infrastructure, involving several thousand km of roads and bridges, in the northern as well as north-eastern theatres. Besides the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), which handles the bulk of these construction and maintenance works, several agencies, including the NHAI, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, Central Public Works Department and the Public Works Departments of the states involved as well as private sector entities are associated with this.

In winters, the sustenance of troops deployed in the northern sector is dependent on air. The Indian Air Force transport aircraft ferry in fresh rations, supplies and equipment and help rotate troops. Even civilian medical cases requiring critical care are evacuated from Kargil and Ladakh regions by the IAF or Army helicopters.

The all-weather road connectivity to the northern sector becomes crucial in view of the prevailing security situation requiring sustained deployment of a large number of troops along the frontiers. Round-the-year access will reduce reaction time, facilitate faster and cost-effective mobilisation and re-enforcing existing capability by moving in heavy equipment. It will also benefit the civilian population in these areas.

When all tunnels are completed a few years hence, Ladakh and Kargil will have all-weather access from three axes — one from Srinagar and two from Manali, allowing considerable strategic advantage and flexibility. In the long run, it would also be a boon for socio-economic development of the region.

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Lal Bahadur Shastri, the second Prime Minister of India, was a symbol of simplicity, humility and integrity. Born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, Shastri played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. His leadership and policies have left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations to come.

WITH LT GEN JS DHILLON :

Armed Forces Tribunal imposes “exemplary” cost of Rs 2 lakh on authorities concerned for causing suffering to the widow

Vijay Mohan Tribune News Service

Granting special family pension to the widow of a soldier 37 years after his death during service, the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) has imposed an “exemplary” cost of Rs 2 lakh on the authorities concerned for causing suffering to the widow.

Naik Dharambir was enrolled into the Rajputana Rifles in 1975. While in service, he suffered from Hepatitis and died in 1987. His death certificate stated that his medical condition had been aggravated by the military service, making her widow eligible for special family pension, which is higher than ordinary pension.

However, the case of the soldier’s widow was processed for the grant of ordinary family pension by the Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions), Allahabad. Even the Records Office of the Rajputana Rifles mutely agreed to the award, which even the widow accepted on account of her illiteracy.

It was after 30 years that she came to know that keeping in view the circumstances of the death of her husband, she was entitled to higher pension.

In 2017, she sent a legal notice to the Records Office and pension authorities, seeking sanction of special family pension. But her claim was rejected, following which she moved the AFT in 2019.

During the pendency of the case, the Records Office wrote to the Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (PCDA) that she was entitled to special family pension, but the letter was rejected by PCDA on the grounds that she had been granted ordinary pension in 1988 and the appeal was now time-barred.

Pointing out that even though the widow’s claim was genuine, the PCDA was not acting upon the same, the Bench of Justice Sudhir Mittal and Lt Gen Ranbir Singh ruled that they deserve to be burdened with exemplary costs of Rs 2 lakh.

The Bench ruled that she was entitled to special family pension from the day her husband died along with full arrears.

Oct 2, 1904-Jan 11, 1966

Sanjay Khurana Tribune News Service

Lal Bahadur Shastri, the second Prime Minister of India, was a symbol of simplicity, humility and integrity. Born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, Shastri played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. His leadership and policies have left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations to come.

Shastri was born to Sharada Prasad Srivastava, a school teacher, and Ramdulari Devi. His father passed away when Shastri was just a year old, leaving his family in financial hardship. Despite these challenges, he was determined to pursue education.

He dropped his surname, ‘Srivastava,’ at a young age as a statement against the caste system. After completing his primary education in Varanasi, he joined Kashi Vidyapeeth, where he earned the title ‘Shastri,’ meaning ‘scholar.’ This became synonymous with his identity.

Shastri was deeply influenced by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and joined the Indian freedom struggle in 1921. He actively participated in movements such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Salt Satyagraha and the Quit India Movement, enduring imprisonment several times.

As a close follower of Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, Shastri emphasised the principles of non-violence and self-reliance. He also worked to promote khadi and swadeshi products, embodying the ideals of self-sufficiency.

After India gained Independence in 1947, Shastri joined the provisional government, serving in various capacities. As the Union Minister of Transport and Railways, he introduced reforms, including the provision of third-class compartments in trains and better amenities for passengers.

He later served as the Minister of Home Affairs and established a reputation for his administrative skills, honesty and dedication. In 1964, following the death of Jawaharlal Nehru, Shastri was unanimously chosen as India’s second Prime Minister.

His tenure as Prime Minister, though short, was marked by significant achievements. One of his most notable contributions was his leadership during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. His slogan, ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ (hail the soldier, hail the farmer), captured the spirit of India and emphasised the importance of defence and agriculture.

Shastri also laid the groundwork for the Green Revolution, which transformed India’s agricultural sector and addressed food shortages. He encouraged farmers to adopt modern techniques and work towards self-sufficiency in food production.

Known for his simplicity and modest lifestyle, Shastri lived in a small house, shunned extravagance and upheld ethical standards in public life. His integrity and humility earned him immense respect across political and social spectrums.

Shastri passed away on January 11, 1966, under mysterious circumstances in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, after signing the Tashkent Agreement to resolve the Indo-Pak conflict. His death remains shrouded in controversy, but his contributions are celebrated nationwide.

His life and work exemplify selflessness, dedication and patriotism. His legacy continues to inspire leaders and citizens, reminding us of the power of honesty and hard work in nation-building.

Shastri was a leader who connected deeply with the masses, championed national causes and upheld the values of simplicity and integrity. His life remains a testament to the ideals of humility and perseverance in the service of the nation.

To roll out series of initiatives | 5-year age relaxation for first batch

Tribune News Service

Haryana Sainik and Ardh Sainik Welfare Minister Rao Narbir Singh has said that Haryana has become the first state to offer a security cover for Agniveers. Under the Central government’s Agneepath scheme, which was launched on July 15, 2022, Agniveers have been recruited in the armed forces. The scheme also stipulates that 25% of Agniveers will be regularised after their service.

The first batch of Agniveers is expected to complete their service in July 2026, while Haryana’s Cabinet has already taken a progressive step by implementing the Haryana Agniveer Policy 2024, ensuring robust security and welfare measures for Agniveers.

The minister revealed that during 2022-23, a total of 1,830 Agniveers were recruited into the Army, Navy, and Air Force, followed by around 2,215 Agniveers in 2023-24.

He further shared that as part of the state’s commitment, a series of initiatives will be rolled out. These include a 10% horizontal reservation for Agniveers in the recruitment of police personnel, mining guards, jail wardens, and Special Police Officers. Additionally, 5% reservation will be provided for direct recruitment in Group C posts, and 1% in Group A posts.

To support the Agniveers in their transition, the state will also provide a five-year relaxation in the age limit for the first batch of Agniveers, along with exemption from the Common Eligibility Test. For those interested in self-employment or entrepreneurship, Agniveers will be eligible for loans of up to Rs 5 lakh. They will also receive priority in employment through the Haryana Skill Employment Corporation.

To further incentivise industries, the government will offer an annual subsidy of Rs 60,000 to those industries that hire Agniveers on a monthly salary of Rs 30,000 or more. In addition, Agniveers seeking careers in private security will be given priority in obtaining gun licences.

The Army has ordered a court of inquiry to look into an alleged brawl at a function in Meghalaya in November. Major Vinay Kumar Singh has alleged assault and humiliation at the hands of personnel of Army and lodged an…

Tribune News Service

The Army has ordered a court of inquiry to look into an alleged brawl at a function in Meghalaya in November. Major Vinay Kumar Singh has alleged assault and humiliation at the hands of personnel of Army and lodged an FIR in Meghalaya in December.

The Army probe is verifying facts of the incident and a probe is on to first examine the conduct of the Major and the subsequent allegations of a brawl. The incident occurred on November 15. The filing of the FIR was delayed as Major Singh was undergoing treatment in Kolkata. As per the FIR, Major Singh is currently posted as Assistant Chief Law Officer, Assam Rifles.