07/06/2023
Tribute to the brave sons on Shaheed Diwas
By Ramneek Manhas
In 19 January 1990, following the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus from Kashmir, the jihadists' next target was Doda district, where communal tensions were already brewing between both Hindu and Muslim communities. In District Doda the protracted insurgency which began with an explosion on 13 April 1990 at historic Seri Bazar Bhaderwah wherein a mob of stone pelters marching towards CRPF chanting slogans of 'Pakistan Zindabad', seriously injuring 5 security personnel, as a result of which two agitators were killed on the spot.
The terrorists, driven by their sinister agenda, sought to replicate the mass exodus of Hindus from Doda district in the same manner in which Kashmiri Hindus were driven out of Kashmir.
Their heinous tactics involved orchestrating a series of events designed to instill fear and create a hostile environment.Their initial targets were shepherds, and they strategically marked several Hindu leaders those served as a source of inspiration for the resistance of the Hindu community against reign of terror. Through these violent acts, the terrorists aimed to intimidate and force Hindus to leave the area, thus furthering their divisive objectives and destabilizing the social fabric of the district.
Assassination of Santosh Thakur
On the fateful day of 19th December, 1992, a tragic incident came to the fore which shook Doda district. Santosh Thakur, a lawyer, general secretary of BJP from the then Doda district and president of Sanatan Dharma Sabha Doda, was brutally shot at 4:30 pm while returning home. The killing of Santosh Thakur was not an isolated act of violence, but the result of a well-planned conspiracy hatched by aides and abettors of terrorists. It was clear that the administration of the day turned a blind eye to the growing threat of terrorism and was in fact complicit in its actions. To add to the gravity of the situation, the murder took place during the final examinations of class 12th. Surprisingly, the answer sheets and papers of the students were snatched before the scheduled time. Shops belonging to the Muslim community were closed before the murder. This series of incidents was indicative of a nexus between terrorists and certain sections of the administration, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in the region.
Assassination of Swami Raj Katal
On May 30, 1994, Swami Raj Katal, BJP leader of village Monda, Bhaderwah, district Doda, was killed when terrorists fired indiscriminately at him while he was returning home after his daily work. A school going boy along with his security personnel died on the spot.
The assassination of a leader sent shockwaves through the community, instilling a deep sense of fear and uncertainty among its members. The loss of a prominent figure, whose influence and guidance were revered, created a void that seemed impossible to fill.The community now grapples with the realization that their safety and stability can be shattered in an instant. The once-strong bonds that held them together now seem fragile, as mistrust and suspicion begin to seep into their interactions. The fear of further violence and the unknown looms over their daily lives, casting a shadow of apprehension and anxiety. In this time of crisis, the community seeks solace and strength in unity, hoping to overcome their fears and rebuild a sense of security that was shattered by the assassination.
Assassination of Rucher Kumar Koul
On 07 June, 1994, Rucher Kumar Koul, a Hindu dynamic youth leader was killed when terrorists fired indiscriminately at him while he was working in his filed along with his wife near his house situated at Mohalla Vasak Dhera, Bhaderwah, district Doda. Several attempts were made earlier to eliminate him but all failed.
The murder of a courageous and dynamic youth leader has sent shockwaves across the community. This promising man was working tirelessly to instill faith and hope in the hearts of the youth by rising above the darkness of Pakistan sponsored terrorism. His efforts to empower the younger generation and promote unity against the forces of violence had earned him praise and respect.
Every year on June 7, the people of Bhaderwah gather to pay tribute to the brave sons who made supreme sacrifices for their country. This solemn occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the valor and dedication displayed by these courageous individuals. As the Hindu society comes together, they honor the memory of these fallen heroes, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. The day is marked by ceremonies, prayers, and commemorative events, serving as a collective expression of gratitude and reverence for those who laid down their lives in service of the nation. Through this annual observance, the people of Bhaderwah reinforce the significance of bravery, patriotism, and selflessness, inspiring future generations to emulate the noble ideals upheld by these gallant individuals.