Senior Police Delegation Pays Tribute at Hot Springs Memorial in Ladakh

A delegation of 28 senior police officers from various states and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) gathered at the Hot Springs Memorial in Eastern Ladakh to pay tribute to the martyrs of the 1959 skirmish. The event was led by Manoj Yadava, Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), marking the first time an RPF DG has headed the delegation. N Prakash Reddy, DIG of Telangana, served as the Deputy Leader.

In a symbolic display of unity and respect, personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Indian Army, and ITBF joined the delegation in saluting the martyrs at the memorial, which stands near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) at an altitude of 15,400 feet. The memorial honors the sacrifice of 10 CRPF personnel who lost their lives in a confrontation with Chinese troops on October 21, 1959.

A highlight of the visit was the delegation’s meeting with 86-year-old Sonam Dorjey, a veteran and member of the original patrolling party involved in the 1959 skirmish. Dorjey, who was captured by Chinese forces during the conflict, remains a living symbol of courage and resilience.

Since 1960, the Hot Springs Memorial has been a sacred site where Indian Police Forces gather annually to remember the sacrifices of their fallen comrades. This year’s pilgrimage took on added significance with DG Manoj Yadava dedicating the visit to the 1,011 RPF personnel who have laid down their lives since the force’s inception in 1958. Yadava emphasized the enduring values of duty, valor, and sacrifice exemplified by the brave hearts of 1959, whose legacy continues to inspire the police fraternity.

The Secunderabad RPF issued a press release praising the event as a reminder of the unwavering commitment and camaraderie that define India’s law enforcement community.