Kamal Ghorui
CRPF is an organisation full of stories of valour and sacrifices…untold stories are numerous, but what stands most significantly is that it repulsed a Brigade-level attack by the Pakistani Army on 9th April 1965. A full infantry brigade was countered by just two companies of CRPF’s 2nd Battalion. War historians were amazed, enemies were dazed, and both military and para-military forces found it awesome.
That was the legendary Battle of Sardar Post in the barren, salt-crusted Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. On 9th April 1965, barely two companies of the 2nd Battalion CRPF, stood firm against over 3,500 battle-hardened Pakistani soldiers of the 51st Infantry Brigade (including 18 Punjab, 8 Frontier Force Rifles and 6 Baluch). Supported by artillery and mortars, the enemies launched Operation Desert Hawk in the dead of night. What followed was twelve hours of relentless fighting that became a glorious chapter in India’s paramilitary history; unparalleled in the history of war.
The attack began in the early hours of 9th April. Pakistani troops advanced stealthily towards Sardar Post (named after its Sikh company commander) and nearby positions. The CRPF men, lightly armed with .303 rifles, a few machine guns and 2-inch mortars, had no tanks or air support. Yet they were ready.
As the enemy closed in, the CRPF jawans responded with fierce determination. Subedar Balbir Singh and his men directed accurate mortar fire that silenced enemy observation posts. Machine guns roared to life on the perimeters. Head Constable Bhawana Ram performed an act of extraordinary bravery on the eastern flank – when his machine gun fell silent, he single-handedly hurled grenade after grenade at the advancing troops, breaking their momentum and forcing them back. Such raw courage turned the tide at critical moments.
Company Commander DSP D.S. Paul led with cool nerves and inspiring presence. Deputy Commandants and other officers coordinated fire and movement under heavy barrage. HC Kishan Singh displayed selfless gallantry by racing a jeep loaded with ammunition straight into the enemy fire zone when supplies ran dangerously low. His daring act kept the defence alive.
Company commanders and their deputies refused to let numerical inferiority or superior enemy firepower break their will. They fought from the front, setting personal examples of leadership and bravery. When one forward platoon was briefly overrun, the rest held firm.
For twelve gruelling hours, the CRPF repulsed three major assaults. The enemy suffered heavy losses – 34 soldiers killed (including two officers) and four taken prisoner. Six brave CRPF jawans made the supreme sacrifice that day. 19 brave souls, including the post commander Major Sardar Karnail Singh, were taken captive along with others, but the post was saved and the enemy ultimately withdrew, dazed and defeated.
This was no ordinary defence. A small element of paramilitary force had held a full infantry brigade at bay in open salt flats for an entire day. The grit, discipline and indomitable spirit of the CRPF troops amazed everyone. War historians still regard it as one of the finest examples of courage where CRPF men rose to become legends.
The company commanders were the backbone of this resistance – their calm leadership under fire kept the men united and motivated. The unit commandant’s training and ethos turned the force into an unbreakable wall. These officers and jawans embodied the highest standards of bravery and selfless service to the nation.
The Battle of Sardar Post had a lasting impact. It highlighted the need for a dedicated border guarding force and directly contributed to the raising of the Border Security Force later that year. The stand is often called the “Saragarhi of Independent India”. Every year on 9th April, CRPF observes Valour Day to honour these heroes and renew its commitment to the nation.
Today, when CRPF personnel stand resolute in Naxal-affected areas, Kashmir or during natural calamities, the same spirit of excellence shines through. The blood of those martyrs at Sardar Post continues to inspire generations.
To the brave officers and jawans of 2nd Bn CRPF who fought on 9th April 1965 – you are the epitome of excellence in bravery and service to the country. Enemies were dazed that day, military minds were awestruck, and India stood taller.
Jai Hind. Jai CRPF.
END OF ARTICLE
