This Gazette may contains Multiple Subjects

click here for IIIF manifest

रजिस्ट्री सं. डीएल(एन)-04/0007/2003--05 REGISTERED No. DL(N)-04/0007/2003—05

सत्यमेव जयते

साप्ताहिक/WEEKLY

प्राधिकार से प्रकाशित

PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY

सं. 47] नई दिल्ली, शनिवार, नवम्बर 25—दिसम्बर 1, 2017 (अग्रहायण 4, 1939)

No. 47] NEW DELHI, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25—DECEMBER 1, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939)

इस भाग में भिन्न पृष्ठ संख्या दी जाती है जिससे कि यह अलग संकलन के रूप में रखा जा सके

(Separate paging is given to this Part in order that it may be filed as a separate compilation)

विषय-सूची

पृष्ठ सं.

भाग I—खण्ड-1—(रक्षा मंत्रालय को छोड़कर) भारत सरकार के मंत्रालयों और उच्चतम न्यायालय द्वारा जारी की गई विधितर नियमों, विनियमों, आदेशों तथा संकल्पों से सम्बन्ध्ति अध्सिूचनाएं. .............. 871 भाग I—खण्ड-2—(रक्षा मंत्रालय को छोड़कर) भारत सरकार के मंत्रालयों और उच्चतम न्यायालय द्वारा जारी की गई सरकारी अधिकारियों की नियुक्तियों, पदोन्नतियों, छुट्टियों आदि के सम्बन्ध् में अध्सिूचनाएं. .............................................. 1035 भाग I—खण्ड-3—रक्षा मंत्रालय द्वारा जारी किए गए संकल्पों और असांविधिक आदेशों के सम्बन्ध में अध्सिूचनाएं. .............................................. 11 भाग I—खण्ड-4—रक्षा मंत्रालय द्वारा जारी की गई सरकारी अधिकारियों की नियुक्तियों, पदोन्नतियों, छुट्टियों आदि के सम्बन्ध में अध्सिूचनाएं. ..... 2095 भाग II—खण्ड-1—अधिनियम, अध्यादेश और विनियम. ............ [ भाग II—खण्ड-1क—अधिनियमों, अध्यादेशों और विनियमों का हिन्दी भाषा में प्राधिकृत पाठ. ................. [ भाग II—खण्ड-2—विधेयक तथा विधेयकों पर प्रवर समितियों के बिल तथा रिपोर्ट. ................................... [ भाग II—खण्ड-3—उप खण्ड (i)—भारत सरकार के मंत्रालयों (रक्षा मंत्रालय को छोड़कर) और केन्द्रीय प्राधिकरणों (संघ शासित क्षेत्रों के प्रशासनों को छोड़कर) द्वारा जारी किए गए सामान्य सांविध्कि नियम (जिनमें सामान्य स्वरूप के आदेश और उपविधियां आदि भी शामिल हैं). ................... [ भाग II—खण्ड-3—उप खण्ड (ii)—भारत सरकार के मंत्रालयोेंं (रक्षा मंत्रालय को छोड़कर) और केन्द्रीय प्राधिकरणों (संघ शासित क्षेत्रों के प्रशासनों को [आंकड़े प्राप्त नहीं हुए।

1—341 GI/2017

पृष्ठ सं.

छोड़कर) द्वारा जारी किए गए सांविधिक आदेश और अधिसूचनाएं. ............................ [ भाग II—खण्ड-3—उप खण्ड (iii)—भारत सरकार के मंत्रालयोेंं (जिसमें रक्षा मंत्रालय भी शामिल है) और केन्द्रीय प्राधिकरणों (संघ शासित क्षेत्रों के प्रशासनों को छोड़कर) द्वारा जारी किए गए सामान्य सांविधिक नियमों और सांविधिक आदेशों (जिनमें सामान्य स्वरूप की उपविध्यिां भी शामिल हैं) के हिन्दी प्राधिकृत पाठ (ऐसे पाठों को छोड़कर जो भारत के राजपत्र के खण्ड 3 या खण्ड 4 में प्रकाशित होते हैं). .................................................... * भाग II—खण्ड-4—रक्षा मंत्रालय द्वारा जारी किए गए सांविधिक नियम और आदेश. ...................................... * भाग III—खण्ड-1—उच्च न्यायालयों, नियंत्रक और महालेखापरीक्षक, संघ लोक सेवा आयोग, रेल विभाग और भारत सरकार से सम्बद्ध और अधीनस्थ कार्यालयों द्वारा जारी की गई अध्सिूचनाएं. .............................................. 23527 भाग III—खण्ड-2—पेटेंट कार्यालय द्वारा जारी की गई पेटेन्टों और डिजाइनों से सम्बन्धित अधिसूचनाएं और नोटिस [ भाग III—खण्ड-3—मुख्य आयुक्तों के प्राधिकार के अधीन अथवा द्वारा जारी की गई अध्सिूचनाएं. ......... [ भाग III—खण्ड-4—विविध अधिसूचनाएं जिनमें सांविधिक निकायों द्वारा जारी की गई अधिसूचनाएं, आदेश, विज्ञापन और नोटिस शामिल हैं. ................................ 2763 भाग IV—गैर-सरकारी व्यक्तियों और गैर-सरकारी निकायों द्वारा जारी किए गए विज्ञापन और नोटिस. .... 2001 भाग V—अंग्रेजी और हिन्दी दोनों में जन्म और मृत्यु के आंकड़ों को दर्शाने वाला सम्पूरक. ............................ [

(871)872 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1

CONTENTS

Page No.

PART I—SECTION 1—Notifications relating to Non- Statutory Rules, Regulations, Orders and Resolutions issued by the Ministries of the Government of India (other than the

871 Ministry of Defence) and by the Supreme Court ......................................................... PART I—S ECTION 2—Notifications regarding Appointments, Promotions, Leave etc. of Government Officers issued by the Ministries of the Government of India

1035

11 (other than the Ministry of Defence) and by the Supreme Court ............................... PART I—SECTION 3—Notifications relating to Resolutions and Non-Statutory Orders issued by the Ministry of Defence....................................

PART I—S ECTION 4—Notifications regarding

2095

* Appointments, Promotions, Leave etc. of Government Officers issued by the Ministry of Defence ................................................ PART II—SECTION 1—Acts, Ordinances and Regulations PART II—SECTION 1A—Authoritative texts in Hindi language, of Acts, Ordinances and

Regulations ............................................... *

PART II—SECTION 2—Bills and Reports of the Select

* Committee on Bills ................................... PART II—S ECTION 3—SUB-SECTION (i)—General Statutory Rules (including Orders, Bye- laws, etc. of general character) issued by the

* Ministry of the Government of India (other than the Ministry of Defence) and by the Central Authorities (other than the Administration of Union Territories) ........ PART II—SECTION 3—SUB-SECTION (ii)—Statutory Orders and Notifications issued by the

Ministries of the Government of India (other than the Ministry of Defence) and

*Folios not received.

Page No.

by the Central Authorities (other than the Administration of Union Territories) ..... *

PART II—SECTION 3—SUB-SECTION (iii)—Authoritative texts in Hindi (other than such texts, published in Section 3 or Section 4 of the Gazette of India) of General Statutory Rules

& Statutory Orders (including Bye-laws of a general character) issued by the Ministries of the Government of India (including the Ministry of Defence) and by Central Authorities (other than Administration of Union Territories) .........

*

PART II—SECTION 4—Statutory Rules and Orders issued by the Ministry of Defence ...........

*

PART III—SECTION 1—Notifications issued by the High Courts, the Comptroller and Auditor

23527 General, Union Public Service Commission, the Indian Government Railways and by Attached and Subordinate Offices of the Government of India .................................

PART III—SECTION 2—Notifications and Notices issued by the Patent Office, relating to Patents and Designs ............................................. *

PART III—SECTION 3—Notifications issued by or under the authority of Chief Commissioners ...... *

PART III—SECTION 4—Miscellaneous Notifications including Notifications, Orders, Advertisements and Notices issued by

2763 Statutory Bodies .......................................

PART IV—Advertisements and Notices issued by Private

2001 Individuals and Private Bodies .................

PART V—Supplement showing Statistics of Births and

Deaths etc. both in English and Hindi ......

*भाग I—खण्ड 1] भारत का राजपत्र, नवम्बर 25, 2017 (अग्रहायण 4, 1939) 873

भाग I—खण्ड 1

[PART I—SECTION 1]

[(रक्षा मंत्रालय को छोड़कर) भारत सरकार के मंत्रालयों और उच्चतम न्यायालय द्वारा जारी की

गई विध्तिर नियमों, विनियमों, आदेशों तथा संकल्पों से संबंधित अधिसूचनाएं]

[Notifications relating to Non-Statutory Rules, Regulations, Orders and

Resolutions issued by the Ministries of the Government of India

(other than the Ministry of Defence) and by the Supreme Court]

——————

PRESIDENT'S SECRETARIAT

New Delhi, the 15th August 2017

No. 108-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the President's Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Delhi Fire Service :—

(Posthumous)

i) Shri Hari Singh Meena Leading Fireman

ii) Shri Hari Om

(Posthumous)

Leading Fireman

2. On 24.02.2017 at 05.35 hrs, a call was received at Delhi Fire Service Control Room that a fire broke out in the Chatkora Food and Snacker at Shop No. 15, H-Block, Lal Market, Vikaspuri, New Delhi. Immediately two Fire Tenders under the leadership of Sub Officer, Shri Raj Singh rushed to the spot. After reaching on the spot the crew found that the huge flames are coming out from the shop and the shutter found locked from outside. Crowd informed that 04 Nos. of LPG Cylinders, Refrigerator, Cooking Oil, Wooden Serving counter etc. may be involved in fire. Fire was spreading rapidly due to leakage of LPG. The crew immediately started fire fighting operation. Leading Fireman Shri Hari Singh Meena and Shri Hari Om dared to reach near to the burning shop without caring tot the leaping out flames and presence of explosive gas. They started breaking the shutter with the available tools. Fire Operator Shri Naveen and Shri Ravinder were protecting them with the charged hose line. During the operation, a blast occurred inside the shop resulting in ripping of shutter owing to blast waves. The crew members namely Leading Fireman Hari Singh Meena and Hari Om, Fire Operator Naveen and Ravinder received severe burn injuries. Leading Fireman Shri Hari Singh Meena was taken to Park Hospital, Keshopur where the Doctor declared him brought dead. Leading Fireman Shri Hari Om, Fire Operator Shri Naveen and Fire Operator Shri Ravinder were taken to DDU Hospital, Hari Nagar where Shri Hari Om was given life saving treatment but could not be revived and died. Fire Operator Shri Naveen and Ravinder Kumar were discharged from the hospital after treatment.

3. Leading Fireman, Shri Hari Singh Meena and Shri Hari Om, thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

4. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of President's Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 24.02.2017

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 109-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the President's Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Delhi Fire Service :—

i) Shri Sunil Kumar

(Posthumous)

Fireman

(Posthumous)

ii) Shri Manjeet Singh Fire Operator

2. On 28.09.16 at 16.45 hrs, a call was received at Delhi Fire Service Control Room that a fire broke out in the factory premises located at C-389, Narela Industrial Area, Delhi. Immediately 05 Fire Tenders along with crew from Bhorgarh, Narela and Rohini Fire Stations under the leadership of Station Officer Shri Sumit Kumar rushed to the spot. On arrival, crew observed that the factory comprised of basement, ground plus three upper floors used for manufacturing plastic plates/glasses with huge storage of raw materials and finished goods is in fire. The Officer-in-charge immediately declared the fire as "Medium category" and started fire fighting operation. During the fire fighting, the crew heard that two persons are trapped in fire. To trace and rescue the trapped persons, two teams comprising of Sub Officer Shri Tej Pal, Fireman Shri Sunil Kumar, Fireman Shri Anoop Singh and Fire Operator Shri Manjeet Singh were instructed to enter inside the building with the charged hose line. Both the teams, fully aware of the risk involved due to the high temperature and smoke, entered into the building without caring to their lives and started fire fighting and rescue operation.

3. At around 2200 hrs, two huge blasts took place in the building that led to collapse of structure. Crew members working inside the building were perished under the rubble of the hot building materials. Sub-officer Shri Tej Pal and Fireman Anoop Singh found with severe burn injuries. Fire Operator Shri Manjeet Singh and Fireman Shri Sunil Kumar found missing. Their bodies were extricated from the debris on 1st October, 2016.

4. Fireman, Shri Sunil Kumar and Fire Operator Shri Manjeet Singh thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

5. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of President's Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 28.09.2016

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty962 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 No. 110 -Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Delhi Fire Service :—

i) Shri Naveen Fire Operator

ii) Shri Ravinder Kumar

Fire Operator

2. On 24.02.2017 at 05.35 hrs, a call was received at Delhi Fire Service Control Room that a fire broke out in the Chatkora Food and Snacker at Shop No. 15, H-Block, Lal Market, Vikaspuri, New Delhi. Immediately two Fire Tenders under the leadership of Sub Officer, Shri Raj Singh rushed to the spot. After reaching on the spot the crew found that the huge flames are coming out from the shop and the shutter found locked from outside. Crowd informed that 04 Nos. of LPG Cylinders, Refrigerator, Cooking Oil, Wooden Serving counter etc. may be involved in fire. Fire was spreading rapidly due to leakage of LPG. The crew immediately started fire fighting operation. Leading Fireman Shri Hari Singh Meena and Shri Hari Om dared to reach near to the burning shop without caring tot the leaping out flames and presence of explosive gas. They started breaking the shutter with the available tools. Fire Operator Shri Naveen and Shri Ravinder were protecting them with the charged hose line. During the operation, a blast occurred inside the shop resulting in ripping of shutter owing to blast waves. The crew members namely Leading Fireman Hari Singh Meena and Hari Om, Fire Operator Naveen and Ravinder received severe burn injuries. Leading Fireman Shri Hari Singh Meena was taken to Park Hospital, Keshopur where the Doctor declared him brought dead. Leading Fireman Shri Hari Om, Fire Operator Shri Naveen and Fire Operator Shri Ravinder were taken to DDU Hospital, Hari Nagar where Shri Hari Om was given life saving treatment but could not be revived and died. Fire Operator Shri Naveen and Ravinder Kumar were discharged from the hospital after treatment.

3. Fire Operator, Shri Naveen and Shri Ravinder Kumar thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

4. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 24.02.2017

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 111 -Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Delhi Fire Service :—

i) Shri Tej Pal

Sub – Officer

ii) Shri Anoop Singh

Fireman

2. On 28.09.16 at 16.45 hrs, a call was received at Delhi Fire Service Control Room that a fire broke out in the factory premises located at C-389, Narela Industrial Area, Delhi. Immediately 05 Fire Tenders along with crew from Bhorgarh, Narela and Rohini Fire Stations under the leadership of Station Officer Shri Sumit Kumar rushed to the spot. On arrival, crew observed that the factory comprised of basement, ground plus three upper floors used for manufacturing plastic plates/glasses with huge storage of raw materials and finished goods is in fire. The Officer-in-charge immediately declared the fire as "Medium category" and started fire fighting operation. During the fire fighting, the crew heard that two persons are trapped in fire. To trace and rescue the trapped persons, two teams comprising of Sub Officer Shri Tej Pal, Fireman Shri Sunil Kumar, Fireman Shri Anoop Singh and Fire Operator Shri Manjeet Singh were instructed to enter inside the building with the charged hose line. Both the teams, fully aware of the risk involved due to the high temperature and smoke, entered into the building without caring to their lives and started fire fighting and rescue operation.

3. At around 2200 hrs, two huge blasts took place in the building that led to collapse of structure. Crew members working inside the building were perished under the rubble of the hot building materials. Sub-officer Shri Tej Pal and Fireman Anoop Singh found with severe burn injuries. Fire Operator Shri Manjeet Singh and Fireman Shri Sunil Kumar found missing. Their bodies were extricated from the debris on 1st October, 2016.

4. Sub-Officer Shri Tej Pal and Fireman Shri Anoop Singh thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, leadership, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

5. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 28.09.2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 963 No. 112-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the President's Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned Fire Service Officers of CAD, Pulgaon, Ministry of Defence :—

1. Shri Balu Pandurag Pakhare

(Posthumous)

Leading Hand Fire

2. Shri Amit Mahadeorao Dandekar

(Posthumous)

Fire Engine Driver

3. Shri Amol Vasantrao Yesankar

(Posthumous)

Fire Engine Driver

4. Shri Liladhar Bapuraoji Chopade

(Posthumous)

Fireman

5. Shri Dharmendra Kumar Yadav

(Posthumous)

Fireman

6. Shri Krishan Kumar

(Posthumous)

Fireman

7. Shri Pramod Mahadeorao Meshram

(Posthumous)

Fireman

8. Shri Navjot Singh

(Posthumous)

Fireman

9. Shri Kuldeep Singh

(Posthumous)

Fireman

10. Shri Amit Puniya

(Posthumous)

Fireman

11. Shri Arvind Kumar

(Posthumous)

Fireman

12. Shri Dhanraj Prabhakar Meshram

(Posthumous)

Fireman

13. Shri Shekhar Gangadhar Balaskar

(Posthumous)

Fireman

2. On 31.05.2016 at 0050 hrs, a Sentry found smoke emanating from the general area of Delta Sub-Depot in the explosives area and raised alarm. Security Junior Commissioned Officer rushed to Delta Sub-Depot with a Truck Fire Fighting. Immediately, Leading Hand Fire Shri Balupandurag Pakhare along with crew members started water spraying operation at the Explosive Store House Number 192 from the central approach. Leading Hand Fire Shri Balupandurag Pakhare and all crew members were fully aware of the hazards of United Nation Hazard Division 1.1 category ammunition stored in the location. Shri Balupandurag Pakhare led his team with self-example and assisted the crew to lay delivery hoses and directed to spray the water at multiple axes. Due to decreased water level in the tank he mobilized the crew to Static Water Tank Number 102 for continuous supply of water. At about 0120 hrs, there was a concurrent detonation of 134 Metric Tonnes of explosives which killed 19 including Leading Hand Fire, 02 Fire Engine Driver and 10 Firemen. Due to their untiring efforts and energizing spirit in watering the smoking store house and the area in front of the store house, saved 14 explosive storage locations in the vicinity, safeguarded depot from a great catastrophe and also saved thousands of lives.

3. Leading Hand Fire, Shri Balu Pandurag Pakhare, Fire Engine Driver, Shri Amit Mahadeorao Dandekar, and Shri Amol Vasantrao Yesankar, Fireman, Shri Liladhar Bapuraoji Chopade, Shri Dharmendra Kumar Yadav, Shri Krishan Kumar, Shri Pramod Mahadeorao Meshram, Shri Navjot Singh, Shri Kuldeep Singh, Shri Amit Puniya, Shri Arvind Kumar, Shri Dhanraj Prabhakar Meshram, and Shri Shekhar Gangadhar Balaskar, thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

4. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of President's Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 31.05.2016

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty964 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 No. 113-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned Fire Service Officers of CAD, Pulgaon, Ministry of Defence :—

1. Shri Chandu Dada Parate

Station Officer

2. Shri Kishor Motilal Sahu Leading Hand Fire

3. Shri Swapnil Ramesh Khurge

Fire Engine Driver

4. Shri Ram Namdeorao Wankar

Fireman

5. Shri Satish Shalikram Gavhalkar

Fireman

6. Shri Rajendra Gangaram Mahajan

Fireman

7. Shri Santosh Babosa Patil

Fireman

8. Shri Pradip Kumar

Fireman

9. Shri Deepak Arjun Shinde

Fireman

2. On 31.05.2016 at 0050 hrs, a Sentry found smoke from the general area of Delta Sub-Depot in the explosives area and raised alarm. Security Junior Commissioned Officer rushed to Delta Sub-Depot with a Truck Fire Fighting (TFF). Immediately, Leading Hand Fire, Shri Balupandurag Pakhare along with crew members started water spraying operation at the Explosive Store Number 192 from the central approach. All crew members were fully aware of the hazards of United Nation Hazard Division 1.1 category ammunition stored in the location. Shri Pakhare led his team with self-example and assisted the crew to lay delivery hoses and directed to spray the water at multiple axes. At about 0120 hrs, there was a concurrent detonation of 134 Metric Tonnes of explosives which killed 19 including Leading Hand Fire, 02 Fire Engine Driver and 10 Firemen.

3. On hearing the sound of blast, Station Officer Shri Chandu Dada Parate voluntarily reported back on duty from off duty at Main Fire Station and rushed towards the site and took charge of fire fighting and rescue operation. Fire spread to the circular area of around 850 metre diameter, which was threatening 20 Explosive Store Houses (ESH) of 450 MT capacity spread in an area of 600 acres. Under such adverse circumstances, Shri Chandu Dada Parate took complete control of balance TFFs and motivated his team to save vulnerable ESHs. Truck Fire Fighting with crew members deployed in ESH No. 189, 191, 193, 194, 195, 196, 198 and 203. He led his team with self-example and assisted the firemen to contained the fire and ensure there were no secondary fire. He along with other crew members without caring to their lives, saved depot from further damages, and secured man and material till the fire was completely put off.

4. Station Officer, Shri Chandu Dada Parate, Leading Hand Fire, Shri Kishor Motilal Sahu, Fire Engine Driver, Shri Swapnil Ramesh Khurge, Fireman, Shri Ram Namdeorao Wankar, Shri Satish Shalikram Gavhalkar, Shri Rajendra Gangaram Mahajan, Shri Santosh Babosa Patil, Shri Pradip Kumar and Shri Deepak Arjun Shinde, thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, unparalleled dedication, exemplary courage, leadership, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

5. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 31.05.2016

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 114-Pres/2017 —The President is pleased to award the Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Maharashtra Fire Service :—

1. Shri Deepak Bhatu Gaikwad

Sub-OfficerPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 965 2. Shri Devidas Dattatraya Ingale

Driver

3. Shri Hemant Baburao Belgaonkar

Fireman

4. Shri Shivaji Laxman Khulage

Fireman

5. Shri Shivaji Fakira Fugat

Fireman

6. Shri Avainash Subhash Sonawane

Fireman

7. Shri Balasaheb Popat Lahange

Fireman

2. On 12.07.2016 at 1600 hrs, a devastating flash flood reported in Khadak-Sukene Tal, Dindori, Nashik due to incessant torrential rains and release of 31,800 Cusecs water from Palkhed Dam. Six Fishermen got stranded on earthen Island 200 meters away from river banks. Immediately the rescue team under the leadership of Sub- officer Shri Deepak Bhatu Gaikwad rushed to the spot. After reaching to the spot they saw six fishermen trapped on the Island. It was impossible to rescue them in the turbulent and high current water flow of the river. The rescue team without caring to their lives approached the Island with the help of boat and through roaring turbulent water. The rescue team dexterously first went down by using of ropes. With great difficulties and by using ropes and boat and putting their own lives into great danger, they successfully reached to the Island and rescued all the six fishermen safely.

3. At 21.30 hrs the crew again received an information that three persons are trapped 40 KMs away from same river at Kundewadi, Tal, Niphad. Once again they saved three lives by using the above techniques with the help of army.

4. Sub-Officer, Shri Deepak Bhatu Gaikwad, Driver, Shri Devidas Dattatraya Ingale, Fireman, Shri Hemant Baburao Belgaonkar, Shri Shivaji Laxman Khulage, Shri Shivaji Fakira Fugat, Shri Avainash Subhash Sonawane and Shri Balasaheb Popat Lahange, thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

5. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 12.07.2016

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 115-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services Department :—

Shri Arjun Hamilpur Fireman

2. On 30.09.2016 at 08.15 hrs, a call was received in control room about the fire incident at Magnaquest, Plot No. 523 & 524, Road No. 12, Banajra Hills, Hyderabad. Immediately, Fireman Shri Arjun Hamilpur along with the crew rushed to the spot. After reaching they found two floors on fire and dense smoke in the building. It is informed to the crew that two employees are trapped inside the building. Fully aware of the risk involved in the operation Fireman Shri Arjun Hamilpur dared to enter inside the building to search the trapped persons. Negotiating the floors in search of trapped persons while withstanding the fire, bearing the heat radiation, known risk of backdraft and climbing the stairs in zero visibility, Shri Arjun Hamilpur continued search & rescue operation and finally locate two persons and rescued them one by one. During the search and rescue operation, Shri Arjun Hamilpur Fireman sustained injuries, exposed to excessive heat and radiation.

3. Fireman, Shri Arjun Hamilpur thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

4. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 30.09.2016

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty966 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 No. 116-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Fire Service Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services Department :—

Shri Sudhakar Veeragoni Fireman

2. On 15.08.2016 at 12.30 hrs, parents made a hue and cry to save their drowning son at Irikigudem Ghat, Krishna River, Nalgonda District, Telangana. Immediately Fireman, Shri Sudhakar Veeragoni, who was on standby duty, jumped into the river with a lifebuoy and rope without giving second thought to the high current of water flow, turbulence and crocodile zone downstream. The boy was swept away and disappeared. Fireman, Shri Sudhakar carried out search and rescue operation endangering his own life. As the boy was no longer visible, he went further deep into the water and rescued the boy alive.

3. Fireman, Shri Sudhakar Veeragoni thus displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary courage, professional expertise and devotion to duty of a very high order.

4. These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 3 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Fire Service Medal for Gallantry and consequently carries with it special allowance admissible under rule 5 (a) w.e.f. 15.08.2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 117-Pres/2017—The President is pleased on the occasion of the Independence Day, 2017 to award the President's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned officers :—

1. SHRI ABDUR RAHMAN

SR. STATION OFFICER ASSAM

2. SHRI VIPIN KENTAL CHIEF FIRE OFFICER DELHI

3. SHRI MADAN LAL THAKUR

STATION FIRE OFFICER HIMACHAL PRADESH

4. SHRI P. MURALEEDHARAN

STATION OFFICER KERALA

5. SHRI RAJKISHORE JENA STATION OFFICER ODISHA

6. SHRI SURESH KUMAR BARIK

LEADING FIREMAN ODISHA

7. SHRI NARHARI ROUT

DEPUTY COMMANDANT (FIRE) C.I.S.F., M.H.A.

8. SHRI SANAT KUMAR MAJUMDAR

ASST. SUB-INSEPCTOR (FIRE) C.I.S.F., M.H.A.

9. SHRI NEERAJ SHARMA

GENERAL MANAGER (FS) ONGC, M/O PET. & N. GAS

2. These awards are made under Rule 3 (ii) of the rules governing the award of President's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 967 No. 118-Pres/2017—The President is pleased on the occasion of the Independence Day, 2017 to award the Fire Service Medal for Meritorious Service to the undermentioned officers :—

1. SHRI K. YOUSUF

PC (DRIVER) ANDAMAN & NICOBAR

2. SHRI BALAKRISHNA LOHAR

PC (FIREMAN) ANDAMAN & NICOBAR

3. SHRI KIRON SALOI SUB-OFFICER ASSAM

4. SHRI BIMAL CHANDRA DAS

LEADING FIREMAN ASSAM

5. SHRI SHASHIBHUSHAN SINGH

SUB-OFFICER BIHAR

6. SHRI ARVIND PRASAD

SUB-OFFICER BIHAR

7. SHRI ASHOK KUMAR SINGH

LEADING FIREMAN BIHAR

8. SHRI NIYAZAHMED BADRUDDIN FADRA

STATION FIRE OFFICER DAMAN & DIU

9. SHRI RAJBIR SINGH SUB-OFFICER DELHI

10. SHRI HARISH CHAND

LEADING FIREMAN DELHI

11. SHRI RAJESH KUMAR

ASST. WIRELESS OFFICER DELHI

12. SHRI RAM GOPAL THAKUR

SUB FIRE OFFICER HIMACHAL PRADESH

13. SHRI JASOL RAM

LEADING FIREMAN HIMACHAL PRADESH

14. SHRI RAJENDRA RAM

SUB-OFFICER JHARKHAND

15. SHRI BHAGWAN OJHA

SUB-OFFICER JHARKHAND

16. SHRI RAMESH SOMASAMUDRA

DISTT. FIRE OFFICER KARNATAKA

17. SHRI VENKATARAMANA MOGERA

FIRE STATION OFFICER KARNATAKA968 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 18. SHRI VENKATASWAMY

ASST. FIRE STATION OFFICER KARNATAKA

19. SHRI REVANASIDDESHWARA S.M.

LEADING FIREMAN KARNATAKA

20. SHRI RAJAN V.N.

STATION OFFICER KERALA

21. SHRI SASI K.S.

DRIVER MECHANIC KERALA

22. SHRI KRISHNAN. S.

FIREMAN KERALA

23. SHRI K.T. CHANDRAN

FIREMAN DRIVER CUM PUMP OPERATOR KERALA

24. SHRI KHARGESWAR BORO

INSPECTOR MEGHALAYA

25. SHRI SYRMAN RYNGHANG

FIREMAN MEGHALAYA

26. SHRI BASANTA KUMAR SAMAL

STATION OFFICER ODISHA

27. SHRI BIBEKANANDA MALLICK

LEADING FIREMAN ODISHA

28. SHRI BALAKRISHNA SAMAL

DRIVER HAVILDAR ODISHA

29. SHRI GANESH PRASAD NANDA

FIREMAN ODISHA

30. SHRI JIT BAHADUR GURUNG

ASSTT. SUB FIRE OFFICER SIKKIM

31. SHRI BALAKRISHNA PILLAI PRADIPKUMAR

DISTRICT OFFICER TAMIL NADU

32. SHRI NAGALINGAM SAKTHIVEL

STATION OFFICER TAMIL NADU

33. SHRI SANTHIAGO LAWRANCE INICO

LEADING FIREMAN TAMIL NADU

34. SHRI VAITHIYALINGAM MUTHUVEL

FIREMAN DRIVER TAMIL NADU

35. SHRI RAJU

STATION FIRE OFFICER TELANGANAPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 969 36. SHRI VENKATESWARLU KANDIMALLA

DRIVER OPERATOR TELANGANA

37. SHRI MAHIPAL SINGH BHANDARI

SUB-OFFICER TRIPURA

38. SHRI MRIDUL KANTI NATH

LEADING FIREMAN TRIPURA

39. SHRI MANIK LAL SHARMA

FIRE STATION OFFICER UTTARAKHAND

40. SHRI HARISH GIRI

FIRE STATION OFFICER UTTARAKHAND

41. SHRI MILAN NAG

DIVISIONAL FIRE OFFICER WEST BENGAL

42. SHRI MD. HUSSAIN KHAN

FIRE OPERATOR WEST BENGAL

43. SHRI SHIBU CHANDRA DAS

FIRE OPERATOR EST BENGAL

44. SHRI DAWA TSHERING TAMANG

FIRE OPERATOR WEST BENGAL

45. SHRI GURMUKH SINGH SUB-INSPECTOR (FIRE) C.I.S.F., M.H.A.

46. SHRI TRINATH BHOI

HEAD CONSTABLE (FIRE) C.I.S.F., M.H.A.

47. SHRI JAI KISHAN SHARMA

CHIEF FIREMAN, ONGC M/O PET. & N. GAS

48. SHRI GADADHAR TALUKDAR

FIRE ENGINE OPERATOR- II, OIL M/O PET. & N. GAS

49. SHRI DULEN BORAH

TECH. ASSTT. (F&S) NUMALIGARH REFINERY LTD. M/O PET. & N. GAS

50. SHRI HARESH BORAH

TECH. ASSTT. (F&S) NUMALIGARH REFINERY LTD. M/O PET. & N. GAS

2. These awards are made under Rule 3 (ii) of the rules governing the award of Fire Service Medal for Meritorious Service.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty970 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 No. 119-Pres/2017—The President is pleased on the occasion of the Independence Day, 2017 to award the President's Home Guards & Civil Defence Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned officers :—

1. SHRI LAKHI RAM BORDOLOI

DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF CIVIL DEFENCE & DEPUTY COMMANDANT GENERAL OF HOME GUARDS ASSAM

2. SHRI SHEKHAR NARAYAN BORWANKER

DISTRICT COMMANDANT CHHATISGARH

3. SHRI KALAM SINGH JHOUTA COMMANDANT HIMACHAL PRADESH

4. SHRI RAMESH

DEPUTY COMMANDANT KARNATAKA

2. These awards are made under Rule 3 (ii) of the rules governing the award of Home Guards & Civil Defence Medal for Distinguished Service.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 120-Pres/2017—The President is pleased on the occasion of the Independence Day, 2017 to award the Home Guards & Civil Defence Medal for Meritorious Service to the undermentioned officers :—

1. SHRI NABAJYOTI BORAH

SENIOR STAFF OFFICER ASSAM

2. SHRI MUKUT ALI

SUBEDAR ASSAM

3. SHRI INDER MOHAN SINGLA

PLATOON COMMANDER CHANDIGARH

4. SHRI DAVINDER SINGH

PLATOON SERGEANT CHANDIGARH

5. SHRI RAMANUGRAHA WISHWKARMA

HAV. STOREMEN CHATTISGARH

6. SHRI CHUMAN LAL NAMDEV

NAIK CHATTISGARH

7. SHRI DHARAM DAS SAHU

HAVALDAR CHATTISGARH

8. SHRI NAROTTAM LAL NETAM

NAYAK (HG) CHATTISGARH

9. SHRI HIMMATKUMAR DAYALBHAI PATEL

HOME GUARD DAMAN & DIUPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 971 10. SHRI DINA NATH YADAV INSTRUCTOR (CD) DELHI

11. SHRI RAMESHWAR PRANSHANKER VYAS

TRAINED INSTRUCTOR GUJARAT

12. SHRI BABUBHAI DEVRAJBHAI ZADAFIYA

CHIEF WARDEN GUJARAT

13. SHRI DEVENDRA ISHWARLAL PATEL

DIVISIONAL COMMANDER GUJARAT

14. SHRI ROHITKUMAR JAYNTILAL BRAHMBHATT

COMPANY COMMANDER GUJARAT

15. SHRI HARILAL GORDHANBHAI KALARIA

HEAD CLERK GUJARAT

16. SHRI KISHORSINH VIJAYSINH CHUDASAMA

CENTER COMMANDER GUJARAT

17. SHRI KHODABHAI PATHUBHAI VEN

HAVALDAR GUJARAT

18. SHRI RAKESH KUMAR BHARDWAJ DIVISIONAL COMMANDANT HIMACHAL PRADESH

19. SHRI SURESHA NAND SHARMA COMPANY COMMANDER HIMACHAL PRADESH

20. SMT. RANJANA

PLATOON COMMANDER HIMACHAL PRADESH

21. SHRI HARDYAL SINGH THAKUR

HOME GUARD HIMACHAL PRADESH

22. SHRI K.V. MANJUNATH SECTION LEADER KARNATAKA

23. SHRI B.K. BASAVALINGA PLATOON COMMANDER KARNATAKA

24. DR. H.J. CHANDRAKANTHA

SENIOR PLATOON COMMANDER KARNATAKA

25. SHRI P.T. BASAVARAJAPPA

SARGEANT KARNATAKA

26. SHRI L. SOKENDRO SINGH

SUBEDAR (HG) MANIPUR

27. SHRI HOLWING JALONG

HAVILDAR MEGHALAYA972 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 28. SHRI RESTERWEL MUKTIEH

NAIK MEGHALAYA

29. SHRI APURBA MARAK

LANCE NAIK MEGHALAYA

30. SHRI PRATAP KUMAR PARIDA

CIVIL DEFENCE VOLUNTEER ODISHA

31. MS. MANJULATA HOTTA

LADY HOME GUARD ODISHA

32. SMT. BASANTI SINHA

LADY HOME GUARD ODISHA

33. SHRI SUJIT DIGAL

PLATOON COMMANDER (HG) ODISHA

34. SHRI NIRANJAN DEHURY

HOME GUARD ODISHA

35. SHRI PARAMJIT SINGH

COMPANY COMMANDER PUNJAB

36. SHRI SUKHRAJ SINGH

COMPANY COMMANDER PUNJAB

37. SHRI TR. P. DURAI SINGH COMPANY COMMANDER TAMIL NADU

38. TR. K. PANNEERSELVAM COMPANY COMMANDER TAMIL NADU

39. SMT. M. KAVITHA

PLATOON COMMANDER TAMIL NADU

40. SHRI TR. C. THUYAMANI

ASSISTANT PLATOON COMMANDER TAMIL NADU

41. SHRI TR. R. KALAIVASAN

ASSISTANT SECTION LEADER TAMIL NADU

42. SHRI BABUL CHAKRABORTY

HOME GUARD TRIPURA

43. SHRI PREMANANDA BHOWMIK

HOME GUARD TRIPURA

44. SHRI VINOD KUMAR RATRA DIVISIONAL WARDEN UTTAR PRADESH

45. SHRI SUNIL KUMAR YADAV DIVISIONAL WARDEN UTTAR PRADESHPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 973 46. SHRI RAVI SHANKAR DWIVEDI

I.C.O. CIVIL DEFENCE UTTAR PRADESH

47. SHRI AMITABH SRIVASTAVA

SR. STAFF OFFICER UTTARAKHAND

48. SHRI SAHAJAN GAZI HOME GUARD WEST BENGAL

49. SHRI PALAN CHANDRA MONDAL

HOME GUARD WEST BENGAL

50. SHRI ASHOK KUMAR BARVE

JR. DEMONSTRATOR NCDC, MHA

2. These awards are made under Rule 3 (ii) of the rules governing the award of Home Guards & Civil Defence Medal for Meritorious Service.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

The 9th November 2017

No. 121-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Andhra Pradesh Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. B. Balaji Naik

Senior Commando

02 B. Narasimha Reddy

Junior Commando

03. P. Mallesh

Junior Commando

04. K. Harikrishna

Junior Commando

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

In the exchange of fire that took place at Ramgurha village under Chitrakonda PS limits of Malkangiri District in Odisha State on 24th and 25-10-2016, the CPI Maoists suffered a crippling blow and lost (26) of their important cadres. The Grey Hounds parties started retreating in the intervening night of 26/27-10-2016. They trekked for (10) KMs through highly inhospitable and treacherous terrain riddled with land mines and possible ambushes by the Maoist cadres under the cover of darkness and reached the outskirts of Sirilimetta village under Munchingput PS limits of Visakhapatnam Rural District of Andhra Pradesh by 3.30 am.

A group of Maoists with the intention to wreak vengeance on the Grey Hounds parties which were retreating, laid ambush in the outskirts of Sirilimetta village. The Maoists who were anticipating the movement of Police parties suddenly opened fire on sighting them. The Grey Hounds parties immediately retaliated and tactfully wriggled out of the killing zone and countered the ambush. The Maoists realized that they were on the back-foot and started fleeing the area under the cover of darkness. The Grey Hounds parties pursued the Maoists undeterred by darkness and treacherous nature of the terrain. When they reached the forest area between Damaguda and Ramgurha villages after trekking for another (7) KM in pursuit of the enemy, the Maoists once again opened fire at the Grey Hounds party. The Grey Hounds Commandos without caring for their lives pressed on and chased the Maoists. They faced heavy and continuous firing and yet were undaunted, encouraged each other and proceeded tactically taking cover of the available ground features and trees.

Senior Commando (SC) 7456 Sri B. Balaji Naik, Junior Commando (JC) 3444, B. Naraismha Reddy, JC 3716 P. Mallesh and JC 4487 K. Hari Krishna exhibited tremendous courage in the face of incessant fire from the Maoists and chased them taking extreme risk to their lives. The Maoists climbed up a hillock and unleashed an avalanche of fire against the Grey Hounds party. But, the Commandos exhibited extraordinary courage and determination and continued to climb the hillock while chasing the Maoists taking all tactical precautions. SC Sri B. Balaji Naik led the party from the front. The Commandos supported one another and made determined progress while giving cover fire to facilitate movement. The thick forest cover and steep slope of the hillock were a major deterrent but the Commandos acted with exemplary grit in making advance. They displayed tremendous team spirit which is the hallmark of a successful operation.

After fierce gun battle, they neutralized (2) Maoists and recovered (1) SLR rifle and (1) .303 rifle and (2) Hand Grenades. The deceased Maoists were later identified as Gowtham, Area Committee Member (ACM), hailing from Chhattisgarh State and Naresh, Party Member (PM) belonging to Odisha State. This Exchange of Fire coming in the aftermath Ramgurha (v) EoF further demoralized the Maoist cadres and boosted the morale of the security forces.

In this encounter, S/Shri B. Balaji Naik, Senior Commando, B. Narasimha Reddy, Junior Commando, P. Mallesh, Junior Commando and K. Harikrishna, Junior Commando displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 27/10/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 122-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Andhra Pradesh Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Md. Abubakar

(Posthumously)

Senior Commando

02. J. Eswara Rao

Asst. Assault Commander

03. V. Subba Rao

Junior Commando

04. K. Bhanu Prasad

Junior Commando

05. P. Nagendra

Junior Commando

06. P. Rama Krishna Rao

Sub Inspector

07. D. Satheesh Kumar

Junior Commando

08. M. Ramaiah

Senior Commando

09. P. Sreeramulu

Senior Commando

10. M. Narayana Rao

Asst. Assault Commander

11. V. Arun Kiran Sub Inspector

12. A. Shiva Shankar

Junior Commando

13. K. Eswara Rao

Junior CommandoPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 975 14. R. Appala Naidu

Junior Commando

15. D. Hari Kiran

Junior Commando

16. B. Appala Naidu

Asst. Assault Commander

17. Y. Anji

Junior Commando

18. V. Shiva Prasad

Senior Commando

19. A. Rama Krishna

Junior Commando

20. V. Satheesh Kumar

Junior Commando

21. Tirumala Setti Anil Kumar

Senior Commando

22. D.V. Mahesh

Junior Commando

23. K. Suresh

Junior Commando

24. M.K. Narasimhudu

Asst. Assault Commander

25. P. Durga Prasad

Junior Commando

26. B. Satish

Junior Commando

27. R. Lakshmana Rao Junior Commando

28. R. Ramesh

Junior Commando

29. R. Asiritata

Asst. Assault Commander

30. K. Govinda

Junior Commandop

31. K. Raghuram Reddy, IPS

Superintendent of Police

32. Rahul Dev Sharma, IPS

Superintendent of Police

33. A Babujee, IPS

Addl. Superintendent of Police

34. K. Narayana Reddy

Addl. Superintendent of Police

35. A Bhaskara Rao

Junior Commando

36. Ch. Srinivasa Rao Senior Commando

37. Ch. Madhusudhana Rao Junior Commando976 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 38. E. Sivanarayana

Senior Commando

39. K. Chiranjeevi

Junior Commando

40. R. Durga Rao

Junior Commando

41. K. Dora Babu

Junior Commando

42. P Simhachalam

Junior Commando

43. S. Mehar Vasu

Junior Commando

44. R. Suri Babu

Senior Commando

45. G Adinarayana

Junior Commando

46. G Vasu

Senior Commando

47. B. Venkatesh

Junior Commando

48. Ch.V. Bhaskara Rao

Junior Commando

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On credible information that Maoists were gathering in large number including their top leaders from Andhra Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC) in the cut-off area of Andhra Odisha Border (AOB) with intention to commit violent actions against the State, three Assault Units of Grey Hounds with representatives of local Police and Special Intelligence Branch (SIB) were deployed for operations on 23.10.2016 in the evening. Odisha Police deployed cut-off parties on the western side of the Balimela Reservoir. The teams trekked cross country through very difficult and inhospitable terrain covering highly Maoist infested villages for more than 26 Km throughout the night, braving land mines and possible ambushes by the Maoist patrolling teams and Armed Militia and reached the outskirts of Ramagurha (v) on 24.10.2016 by about 6 am. There, they divided themselves into small sub-units and advanced further as assault and cut off groups.

A group of Commandos led by Deputy Assault Commander (DAC) Sri K.Rama Rao consisting of Assistant Assault Commander (AAC) 5098 B.Appala Naidu, Junior Commando (JC) 3:666 Y. Anji, Senior Commando (SC) 3375 V. Siva Prasad, JC 3703 B.Sathish, JC 3681 P. Simhachalam, JC 3547 K. Chiranjeevi, JC 3689 Meher Vasu, SC 8650 E. Sivanarayana, JC 3568 ARama Krishna, JC 3626 K. Dorababu, JC 3586 R. Durga Rao and JC 3297 P. Durga Prasad and other commandos were searching the hilly landscape on the northern side of Ramagurha (v). At about 0600 hrs, they found some tents and suspicious movement of persons in the forest area and approached the location making tactical movements. However, they were sighted by the Maoist sentries and were fired upon with automatic and semi-automatic weapons. Though, they came under heavy and incessant fire, the Grey Hounds Team advanced without caring for their life and approached the enemy location. They neutralized (4) Maoists after a fierce gun battle and continued to chase about 60 -70 Maoists though outnumbered manifold. JC Sri A. Ramakrishna received a pellet injury on his head in the process but fought valiantly in retaliating the Maoist attack. Later, the deceased Maoists were identified as (1) Yamalapalli Simhachalam @ Murali, District Committee Member (DCM), (2) Rajesh @ Bhimal, District Committee Member (DCM) (3) Lacha Modili, Party Member (PM) and (4) Daniel @ Dasuramu, Party Member (PM) and (I) SLR, (2) .303 rifles and (1) SBML weapons were also recovered from the scene.

The Maoists took cover of a Nala, forest and the hilly terrain and ran towards Ramagurha (V). Under the leadership of Assistant Assault Commander (AAC) 4512 Sri M.K.Narsimhudu, AAC 7841 R. Asiritata:. Senior Commando (SC) 8708 Sri MD Abubakar, JC 3335 R.Ramesh, ,Junior Commando (JC) 32`..R.Lalcshrnana Rao and JC 3600 K.Govinda faced a group of Maoists firing with automatic and semi automatic weapons and at great risk to their lives chased them and neutralized two of them. SC Md. Abubakar jumped into a deep Nala in order to chase the Maoists and was pinned down by incessant fire from the Maoists. He breathed his last while valiantly defending his colleagues. Later, the neutralized Maoists were identified as (1) Gammeli Kesava Rao @ Birsu, Divisional Committee Secretary (DCS) and (2) Sindhe Killo, Party Member (PM), (1) 1NSAS rifle and (1) .303 rifle weapons were recovered from the scene.

Another group of Commandos led by Sri A. Babujee, IPS OSD along with Assistant Assault Commander (AAC) 3413 Sri P.Trinadha Rao, AAC 4615 Sri J.Eswara Rao, Junior Commando (JC) 3705 V.Subba Rao, JC 3693 P.Nagendra, JC 3645 K.Bhanti Prasad, JC 3730 K.Suresh, JC 8752 D.V.Mahes, Senior Commando (SC) 8612 T.S.Anil Kumar, SC 3431 Ch.Srinivasa Rao, JC 8782 A.Bhaskara Rao and JC 3498 Ch.Madhusudhana Rao found 20-25 Maoists running towards Ramagurha (v). They immediately realized that it would be easy for the Maoists to escape if they entered the village and mixed with the villagers. They chased the Maoists at great risk to their own lives while coming under burst fire and grenade attacks from the Maoists. The Maoists started climbing the hillock and assumed dominant position. The Grey Hounds Commandos came under an avalanche of fire and AAC Sri P.Trinadha Rao received bullet injuries. Even then, AAC Sri P.Trinadha Rao forged ahead undeterred and the Grey Hounds Commandos exhibited extraordinary courage and determination and continued to climb the hillock while chasing the Maoists. They supported each other giving cover fire and made progress little by little. They neutralized (5) Maoists and were successful in reaching the top of the hillock. The thick forest cover and steep slope of the hillock were a major deterrent but the Commandos acted with exemplary grit in making advance. Later the neutralized Maoists were identified as (I) Bakuri Venkata Ramana @ Umesh; ,Special Zonal Committee Member (SZCM), (2) Prudhvi @ Munna, District Committee Member (DCM) (3) Budri, Area Committee Member (ACM) (4) Kommula Surma Basai, Party Member (PM) and (5) Kaveri Modili, Party Member (PM) and (1) AK-47 rifle, (1) SLR, (2) .303 rifles, (I) SBML and (1) IED were recovered from the scene.

Meanwhile, Sri K.Raghuram Reddy, IPS, Group Commander, GreyHounds, along with Sri P.Ramakrishna Rao, SI, Peddabayulu PS, Assistant Assault Commander: (AAC) 5049 Sri M.Narayana Rao Junior Commando (JC) 3461 V.Satheesh Kumar, JC 3283 R.Appala Naidu, JC 3563 D.Satheesh, Senior Commando (SC) 8635 M.Ramaiah, SC 6435 P.Sriramulu, JC 3287 K.Eswara Rao, JC 8713 A.Siva Shankar ran for almost 1 Km and covered the southern side of the hillock. The Maoists who escaped from the advancing party of OSD, Sri A.Bapujee, IPS., and AACs Sri P.Trinadha Rao and Sri J.Eswara Rao started climbing down on the south eastern side of the hillock while raining bullets with automatic weapons on AAC Sri M.Narayana Rao and his group. JC Sri D.Satheesh Kumar, SC Sri M.Ramaiah and Sri P.Sreeramulu ran towards the south eastern side while coming under heavy fire taking all precautions. They neutralized (2) Maoists firing with AK-47 and SLR weapons. In the meanwhile, AAC Sri M. Narayana Rao, Sri V.Arun Kiran, SI Munchingput PS, JC A. Shiva Shankar and JC Sri K. Eswara Rao and JC R. Appala Naidu ran from cover to cover, chased the Maoists and neutralized (2) cadres at tremendous life risk with the help of their associates. Later, the neutralized Maoists were identified as (I) Gangadhar @ Prabhakar, Special Zonal Committee Member (SZCM), (2) Rhino, District Committee Member (DCM), (3) Janeela @ Malathi, District Committee Member (DCM), (4) Ruppi, Party Member (PM), and (1) AK-47 rifle, (1) SLR, (1) Pistol and (1) SBML weapons were recovered from the scene.

Senior Commando (SC) 5966 Sri Ch.G.V. Ramachandra Rao ran towards .eastern side of the hillock for more than one KM and joined Junior Commando (JC) 3563 D. Satheesh Kumar and JC 3553 D. Hari Kiran. He exhibited exceptional leadership qualities, moved from place to place on the eastern side giving the impression that the Commandos were everywhere. The Maoists rained automatic fire and threw grenades at the Commandos. JC Sri D. Satheesh Kumar received a bullet injury in his thigh and was incapacitated. However, he was undeterred and exhorted his colleagues to fight. SC 5966 Sri Ch.G.V. Ramachandra Rao entrusted the care of the injured Commando to one of his colleagues and continued to fight defending himself and his injured colleague. He was alone fighting from the location but kept the Maoists at bay with his accurate firing. He fired from his UBGL and neutralized (5) Maoists and caused injuries to several others. Later the neutralized Maoists were identified as (I) Chamala Kistaiah @ Daya, Special Zonal Committee Member (SZCM) (2) Inaparthi Dasu @ Madhu, District Committee Member (DCM), (3) Vanthala Shand, Party Member (PM), (4) Tubri, Party Member (PM), and (5) Jayaram Killo, Party Member (PM) and weapons viz., (1) AK-47 rifle, (1) SLR, (1) .303 rifle, (1) Pistol and (1) SBML were recovered from the scene.

Another party consisting of Sri Rahul Dev Sharma, IPS, Supdt. of Police, Sri K.Narayana Reddy, Add1. SP, Senior Commando (SC) 6306 Sri R. Suri Babu, Junior Commando (JC) 3629 B. Venkatesh, SC 3246 G. Vasu, JC 3499 G. Adinarayana and JC 8741 Ch.V.Bhaskara Rao noticed (4) Maoists firing with INSAS and .303 rifles from under the bushes by the side of a Nala on the southeastern side of the hillock. Even then, they advanced forward at great risk to their lives. They took cover of the thick bushes and trees and continuously engaged the enemy valiantly. They exhibited tremendous grit and determination and neutralized the enemy after a long exchange of fire'. Later the neutralized Maoists were identified as (1) Geddam Suvarna Raju @ Kiran @ Ramesh, Divisional Committee Secretary (DCS) (2) Boddu Kundanalu @ Mamatha, District Committee Member (DCM), and (3) Latha @ Bharathi, District Committee Member (DCM), (4) Shyamala Pangi, Party Member (PM) and weapons (1) INSAS rifle, (1) .303 rifles, (1) Tapancha and (1) Land Mine were recovered from the scene.

In this operation, the Maoists suffered the highest number of casualties ever in a single operation in their history and lost (24) cadres including (3) Special Zonal Committee Members, (2) District Committee Secretaries, (8) District Committee Members, (I) Area Committee Members and (10) Party/Members. The Maoists lost (3) AK-47 rifles, (4) SLR rifles, (2) INSAS rifles, (7) .303 rifles, (4) SBML rifles, (2) Pistols, (1) Tapancha, (1) IED and (1) Land Mine in this operation.

The success of this operation was entirely due to the indomitable spirit and courage of the Grey Hounds Commandos and other participating officers who exhibited indescribable courage and bravery. They trekked in treacherous terrain for the whole night and then had the energy to face the Maoist onslaught and inflict huge casualties to the enemy side.

The Grey Hounds Commandos have always been at the fore-front of fighting the Maoist armed formations and with this operation, they set a new bench mark for all the security forces engaged in anti-Maoist operations. Their act of valor uplifted the fighting spirit of innumerable officers and men all over the Country engaged in similar work and boosted their morale to new heights. This is a historical and inspiring achievement in our fight against the Maoists and the Commandos and officers who contributed to the success of this operation acted beyond the normal call of duty at tremendous risk to their lives.

In this encounter, the above named police personnel displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 24/10/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 123-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the President's Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Chhattisgarh Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

(Posthumously)

Shri Shankar Rao Platoon Commander

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 10th April 2015, Platoon Commander Shri Shankar Rao, temporarily camping at police Station Polampalli, District Sukma got an intelligence input about the presence of 25 armed CPI (Maoist) cadres near village Pidmel. Platoon Commander Rao, immediately briefed his team of 49 personnel, took extra ammunition & planned an offensive operation. As per plan, PC Rao left with his team for operation on 11th April 2015 at around 02:00 hours, taking a cross country route to Pidmel.

On conducting search, STF team did not find Maoists presence near village Pidmel. The team, left the village and decided to halt on a small hillock near Pidmel in the morning for a break. Meanwhile, Maoists, who were camping in between Pidmel & Dabbakonta got information of police movement, stealthy followed the police party and on reaching the hillock, started encircling the STF party.

After the search the security personnel halted near RV point. 209. Platoon Commander Rao noticed some suspicious movement and exhibiting exemplary leadership qualities moved in that direction to ascertain the cause of the sudden movement. But the brave leader was hit on the chest by a bullet from the Maoists who were in the process of encircling the hillock. Platoon Commander Rao even after being mortally wounded alerted the rest of the party. His prompt alertness was able to curtail further casualties that could have happened as the security party was temporarily halting and therefore not in position for quick action. But after Platoon Commander Rao's call, the party immediately took position and retaliated against the indiscriminate fire of the Maoists. Platoon Commander Rao put up a valiant fight but succumbed to his injuries after sometime.

Head Constable R.K. Atra suo moto took command of the party. HC R.K. Atra showing great presence of mind decided to move ahead by breaking through the Maoist ambush. For this, he himself fired with UBGL and the impact of this area weapon succeeded in scattering the Maoists party. However, moving ahead the party was caught in a second ambush. But HC R.K. Atra and his men valiantly fought the Maoists and come out of the ambush. The intensity of the Maoist attack and the number of Maoists involved in this attack can be understood by the sheer fact that a third ambush was planted ahead. HC R.K. Atra fired the UBGL cel: which resulted in the death of three Maoists and the third ambush also failed miserably. All the injured police personnel were brought back by the security party and the arms of the martyred officer/jawans could not be looted.

During this fierce gun battle 07 Jawans, including PC Shankar Rao, got martyred & 10 Jawans sustained bullet injuries. The party reached Kankerlanka camp at about 16:15 hrs. Deployment in the area mainly exists along. Dornapal- Jagargunda (56km) & Sukma-Konta (78km) axis. The area encircled in between Kankerlanka-Chintagufa and Bhejji- Kistaram has gradually converted into Maoists guerilla base area due to complete security vacuum & hilly tough inaccessible terrain abreast with jungles and river/rivulets. Maoist PLGA Bn No. 1 along with military platoon. LOS, LGS and janmilitia etc. is active in the area and has inflicted significant casualties to the SFs in the past.

On 16.04.2015, Sodi Rama, Janmilitia Commander of Karrigundam. who was involved in the incident surrendered before police at PS Polampali. He revealed that more than 250 Maoists were involved in Pidmel encounter and that 35PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 979 Maoists were killed & 15 got injured in the encounter. He further told that Maoists Bn. No. 1 Dy. commander Situ & Konta Area Committes Secretary/Division Committee Member (DVCM) Madkam Arjun were among the killed Maoists. Dead bodies of all 35 Maoists were taken to the nearby jungle areas of Endapar and pentapad by the Maoists with the help of villagers and cremated.

Thus, a small contingent of STF personnel under the leadership of PC Shankar Rao exhibited exemplary courage & fought bravely with more than 250 armed Maoists in their base area. STF's movement throughout the operation, was tactical and they made best use of the terrain. They did not allow the Maoists to loot their weapons.

With utter disregard to his personal safety, PC Shankar Rao moved in the direction of fire and tried to engage the Maoists who intended to cause heavy casualties to his men. In a rare display of dauntless courage, he alerted the force to take position to eliminate/neutralize the enemy forces. Thus very rightly PC Shankar Rao displayed dauntless courage and extraordinary valour under heavy fire from close quarters in face of certain death. Platoon Commander Shankar Rao and other Police personal displayed exceptional valour, audacity in face of fire and made the supreme sacrifice beyond the call of duty. They placed themselves in extreme danger for safely of their colleagues in the highest traditions of Indian police.

In this encounter, late Shankar Rao, Platoon Commander displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of President's Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 11/04/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 124-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Chhattisgarh Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

(Posthumously)

Shri Avinash Sharma Sub Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 19/01/2013, Shri Avinash Sharma received information that some naxalites were seen near village Bhurbhusi. Shri Avinash Sharma (SHO of Police Station Bande) immediately shared the information with his superior officers and BSF officers. On 19.01.2013 a joint operation was launched under the leadership of Shri Avinash Sharma. A joint party comprising of DEF and BSF set off tactically towards village Bhurbhusi of PS Bande distt. Kanker (C.G.). When the operational force were moving towards the area and on arriving near village Bhurbhusi, as soon as the naxalites saw the police party, they started indiscriminate firing. The police party also retaliated in self defence and fired on the naxalites. When naxalites realised that the police party was stronger than them, they ran away towards the dense forest. After this, the police party cordoned and searched the surrounding area. The Police party recovered bodies of two dead unknown female naxalites.

In this exchange of fire, police party not only succeeded in defending themselves against the naxal firing but also destroyed a temporary naxal camp. The Police Party recovered 06 live cartridges of 12 bore rifle, 10 live cartridges of .303 rifle, 18 live cartridges of .315 bore rifle, 3 live cartridges of AK-47 rifle, 01 blank cartridge of SLR rifle, naxal uniforms etc. Of the recovered two dead bodies of unknown female naxalites, they were later identified as Sumitra Bai (Deputy LGS Commander) and Sanoti Bai.

Shri Avinash Sharma showed exceptional leadership and bravery during his tenure as Station House Officer (SHO) . He planned and lead many successful Anti Naxal operations. On 2nd Feb 2015, SI Avinash Sharma along with AC 122 BN Shri Vivek Rawat and small team of 6 BSF personnel and 5 DEF Jawan went for intelligence collection on Motor Cycles. At about 1445 hrs 50-60 Maoists ambushed the party near Hawalbaras village and started indiscriminate firing in which Sub Inspector Avinsh Sharma and one Assistant Constable sustained bullet injuries. Sub Inspector, Avinash Sharma and injured Assistant Constable in spite of being injured fought bravely and defended their men as well as arms and ammunitions. In this incident SI Avinash Sharma and One Assistant Constable later succumbed to the injuries.

During the anti naxalite operation conducted on 19-01-2013 in Bhurbhusi forest Sub Inspector Avinash Sharma exhibited exemplary leadership qualities, extra ordinary gallant act and selfless devotion towards the nation.

In this encounter, late Shri Avinash Sharma, Sub Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 19/01/2013.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 125-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Chhattisgarh Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Rameshwar Deshmukh Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

A reliable input was received in the evening of 29th January 2016 about the presence of Nagesh, Arun, Sitakka, Vinod, Jitru and 15-20 other members of Madded Area Committee. A search operation was planned to cordon and search the jungles near the Bade Punnur village in the Awapalli Police Station limits. The troops were divided into three operational teams under the overall command of Addl SP (Operations), Bijapur. Inspectors of Police Rameshwar Deshmukh, Ramakant Tiwari and Laxman Kevat and other members of the operational team was briefed by the troop commander about the field crafts and tactics to be followed during the operation.

The troops reached the jungles of Bade Punnur at around 0700 hrs on 30-10-2016 and tactfully advanced towards the hillock, where the members of the banned maoist formations were suspected to be camping. After crossing a series of hills, the troops reached closer to the target and moved in three parties parallel to each other. While ascending a steep hill, there was a sudden burst of fire upon the police parties. The troops in the midlle flank led by Additional SP Kalyan Elesela came under severe firing from the Maoists, who were positioned on a dominating feature in the hill top. The troops immediately took cover and tried to assess the direction from where the Maoists where firing upon them. Meanwhile, the party on the left flank led by Inspector Rameshwar Deshmukh also came under heavy fire from Maoists.

Inspector Rameshwar Deshmukh maneuvered his troops with great courage to successfully came out of the killing zone and tactfully advanced towards the location from where the naxalites were indiscriminately firing upon the security forces. In spite of repeated warning from the party commander to stop firing, the Maoists continued to fire upon the security forces with an intention to cause serious damage to the troops and loot their weapon. In self defense the troops also opened retaliation firing and advanced towards the hide out from where the Maoists were firing. Inspector Rameshwar Deshmukh regrouped his men and tactfully retaliated in order to neutralize the heavily armed Maoists. With virtually no cover available, owing to the fact that troops were ascending the hill, he exhibited tremendous determination to fight back the enemy and not yield the ground. The exchange of fire continued for about half an hour and not able to withstand the retaliation action of the security forces, the naxalites fled the scene taking advantage of their familiarity with the terrain and the cover of thick jungles.

As the firing ceased, a search operation was carried out near the spot of the encounter. During the search, a male dead body in Maoist uniform was found from the sport, who was later identified as Ramsu, Member Awapalli LOS. Further search of the area from where the Maoists fired, yielded one 7.56mm pistol with 3 rounds loaded in the magazine, 1 live round of .303 caliber, 1 misfired round and 4 fired cases of .303 caliber, 1 local made hand grenade, 8 fired cases of AK 47, 2 of INSAS and cordex wire were recovered. Apart from the arms and ammunition, huge quantities of medicine, pittus, water cans, uniforms, magazine pouch etc were also recovered. The recoveries established the presence of Maoist leaders of Madded Area Committee.

Inspector Rameshwar Deshmukh displayed great professionalism and courage when his party came under heavy firing. His swift and decisive response when he himself and his men came under the killing zone demonstrated exemplary courage and gallantry. His ability to motivate the troops, calculated risk taking and completing the task successfully demonstrates exemplary leadership and self-confidence. His sharp operational sense under great adversity ensured the safety and success of all the troops.

In this encounter, Shri Rameshwar Deshmukh, Inspector, displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 30/01/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 981 No. 126-Pres/2017-The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Chhattisgarh Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Laxman Kewat Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 08.10.2014 at about 1200 hrs, Inspector Laxman Kewat received information that a large number of naxalites alongwith some prominent naxal leader were seen near village forest area of Jangla Police Station limits. A joint team of DEF and CRPF was sent for patrolling, cordon and search operation under the leadership of Inspector Laxman Kewat on 08.10.2014. A joint party comprising of DEF and CRPF set off tactically towards village Potenar-Titopara, Gundipur, Hakwa, Peddajojer, Kudmer and Reddy of PS Jangla, distt. Bijapur (C.G.). When the operational force were moving towards the area and on arriving near village Potenar, as soon as the naxalites saw the police party, they started indiscriminate firing. The police party also retaliated in self defence and fired on the naxalites. Inspector Laxman Kewat took the bold and courageous step and tactfully moved forward by adopting fire and move tactics and asked his men to follow him. When naxalites realised that the police party was stronger than them, they ran away towards the dense forest. After this, the police party cordoned and searched the surroundings area. The Police party recovered bodies of three dead unknown female naxalites, carrying one .303 musket rifle, 06 rounds of .303, 02 nos. 12 bore rifle, 04 nos. 12 bore rounds, 08 nos. empty cases of AK-47, 15 nos. empty cases of SLR, 05 empty cases of INSAS, 03 pitthus, 10 detonators, medical kit, naxalite literature and other daily use items.

In this action, Inspector Laxman Kewat provided exemplary leadership to his troops at the hour of crisis. When his party was attacked by naxals, he exhibited great presence of mind and superb operational sense. Inspector Laxman Kewat fought without caring for his life. He motivated his men to defend each other, under his able guidance and leadership, the police personnel kept moving forward to counter the naxal attack, knowing fully well that every step could have been fatal. The exemplary courage, lion hearted effort and gallant action without caring his life, in service of the Nation has brought laurels to the Chhattisgarh Police.

In this encounter, Shri Laxman Kewat, Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of 1st Bar to Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 08/10/2014.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 127-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Chhattisgarh Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Gorakhnath Baghel Addl. Superintendent of Police

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 21.11.2015, based on a specific intelligence information regarding presence of around 50 to 60 armed CPI (Maoist) cadres belonging to Darbha Division Committee, Malangir Area Committee, Malangir LOS, LGS and 24 no. Platoon between Rewali and Nagarguda forest area, an operation was launched under the command of Shri Gorakhnath Baghel, Additional SP Operations, Dantewada to apprehend the armed naxalites.

The operational team comprised of 39 security personnel from DRG Dantewada and STF. The troops advanced towards the jungle of Nagarguda after searching forest of Kidiras, Periaya and Rewali. In the morning of 22.11.2015 at around 07:15 hrs, when the troops reached the jungle area in between Rewali and Nagarguda, CPI (Maoist) cadres indiscriminately fired upon the security forces, with an intention to cause severe casualities to the police personnel and loot their weapons. Although the naxals mounted a massive attack on the security forces, the troops bravely faced the situation and followed the field craft and tactics to counter the situation. Additional SP Gorakhnath Baghel instructed his men to take position with the available cover in the forest and by disclosing his identity warned the armed naxalites to stop insdicriminate firing. The armed naxalites with an intention to inflicit severe damage to security personnel didn't stop the firing and in turn scaled up the attack on the troops.

Additional SP ordered his troops to retaliate in self defence and advance towards the naxal location to neutralize the threat. The additional SP exhibited conspicuous courage and by risking his own life, led the troops to cordon the naxals, who were firing from a dominating position. After breaking the naxal ambush, the troops tactfully advanced up to the location from where they were indiscriminately firing upon the security personnel. Not able to withstand the tactful action of the troops, the armed naxals retreated from their position and by taking advantage of dense foliage and hilly tracts fleed away from the spot.

After the exchange of fire, thorough search of the spot was conducted and 04 dead bodies of female CPI (Maoist) cadres were recovered, who were later identified as (01) Rame, Member of Malangir Area Committee, (02) Sanni, Member of Malangir LOS, (03) Maase, Member of Malangir LOS and (04) Pande, Member of Malangir LOS. One .303 rifle, two 12 bore rifles with 44 rounds of ammunition, Cash of Rs. 19,000/-, and other daily use items were also recovered from the spot.

In this action Shri Gorakhnath Baghel, ASP Dantewada provided exemplary leadership to his troops during the challenging situation. When his party was attacked by naxals he exhibited great presence of mind and superb operational sense. Shri Gorakhnath Baghel, ASP Dantewada fought without caring for his own life and motivated his men to face the challenge. The exemplary courage and gallant act exhibited by Shri Gorakhnath Baghel, has brought laurels to the Chhattisgarh Police.

In this encounter, Shri Gorakhnath Baghel, Addl. Superintendent of Police, displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 21/11/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 128-Pres/2017-The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Delhi Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri S.K. Giri Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 05.05.2006 an information received in Special Cell/NDR that a notorious, rewarded & Inter-state gangster Ayub @ Lambardar @ Azam @ Masterji, involved in over 70 heinous cases in Delhi/NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Uttranachal etc along with his gang members would come in Delhi in a white Tata Sumo No. UP-I I E-3770 with deadly weapons via Sonia Vihar Pushta to commit dacoity in the area of Timarpur Delhi. On this input, a team led by ACP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav reached at 5th Pusta Sonia Vihar, Delhi and took their position accordingly. At about 10.45 p.m. the said Tata Sumo arrived from Tronica city side and it was signaled to stop by the police party but the driver of' the car accelerated speed to escape resulted- in the vehicle collided with road divider. No sooner did, the vehicle collided with the divider, 6 occupants of the vehicle including 2 occupants identified as Aslam and Ayub jumped from Tata Sumo by opening indiscriminate firing on police party and rushed towards West side to escape. The bullets fired by the desperados hit to the chest of bullet proof jackets of ACP Sanjeev and Inspr S.K.Giri and also passed close to Insp. Manoj Dixit. SI Ranbir Singh. SI Ashok Tyagi, HC Satish Kumar, HC Harish Kumâr and HC Devender. Immediately ACP Sanjeev Kurnar Yadav and Inspector Manoj Dixit took their position towards East side whereas Inspector S.K. Giri and HC Harish Kumar to the right of ACP to confronting with gangsters. SI Ranbir Singh and HC Devender took their position to the right of Inspector S .K Giri and SI Ashok Tyagi HC Satish Kumar took their position diagonally in the left of ACP to confront with gangsters. The police team challenged all 6 desperados to surrender but the desperados continued firing on the police party. The above police officers showed exceptional courage at that moment and with the apprehension to avert casualties of police party and apprehended criminals, fired in self-defence. The cross-fining from both sides continued for about 20-25 minutes. In cross-firing, one criminal managed to escape despite chase due to heavy darkness and dense bushes while 5 criminals sustained bullet injuries. The injured criminals were immediately shifted to hospital wherein they were declared brought dead. Two 9 MM Pistols & 29 live cartridges, one .32 Revolver, two .32 Pistols, one live Hand Grenade with detonator. one Country made Pistol of .315 bore with 4 live cartridges. 1- knife, 1 Tata Sumo car and fired cartridges etc were recovered from the desperados and a case under relevant sections of law was lodged at P.S. Khajuri Khas, Delhi. The team of Special Cell was working on a desperate gang of criminals involved in spates of armed dacoities/robberies in Delhi/NCR in first quarter of year 2006. It was an open challenge for Police to nab the gang. The team of Special Cell collected intelligence and finally succeeded to trace the gang of notorious, rewarded & Inter-state gangster Ayub @ Lambardar @ Azam Masterji of Sardhana, Meerut UP involved in those incidents.

In this encounter, Shri S.K. Giri, Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of 1st Bar to Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 05/05/2006.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 129-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Haryana Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Anil Kumar Rao, IPS Inspector General of Police

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

'Operation Samvedi' was launched by the Haryana Police to execute the non-bailable warrants issued by the Hon'ble Punjab and Haryana High Court against contemnor Rampal under the leadership of Shri Anil Kumar Rao, IPS, IGP/Hisar Range, Hisar. Rampal and his supporters had planned to pitch a battle against the police in case any attempt made by the police to arrest Rampal. There were about 30,000 to 40,000 people inside Satlok Ashram' Barwala, district Hisar. The women and children were made human shield by Rampal to evade his arrest. A private army of commandos equipped with anti-riot gears, firearms, petrol bombs, acid-pouches, sling-shots and pebbles/stones etc was raised and trained to prevent any attempt by police to arrest Rampal. Keeping in mind the likelihood of large collateral damage, the police under his leadership, undertook the operation in a professional manner. The 'Satlok Ashram was completely cordoned off by 17th Nov. 2014 and an order under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code was promulgated by the District Magistrate, Hisar. All efforts to persuade the Ashram followers to leave the Ashram peacefully failed. On 18th Nov. 2014, at around 12:00 P.M., a planned and co-ordinate attacks began from within the fortified walls of the Ashram. Shri Anil Kumar Rao, IPS along with Shri Satender Kumar Gupta,IPS, SP/Hisar, Shri Sumit Kumar, HPS, the then DCP/Faridabad, Shri Rajbir Singh, HPS, DSP/Barwala, Shri Bhagwan Dass, DSP/Siwani (now DSP/Hisar) Inspector Jeet Singh, Gunpal Singh ORP/ASI (lncharge Cyber Cell, Hisar Range, Hisar) and other police force warned the followers of Rampal who were standing in front of the main gate of the ashram armed with deadly weapons like guns, lathis, acid pouches, chilly bombs and slings etc. Repeated announcements were made by Shri Anil Kumar Rao, IPS, IGP/Hisar Range, Hisar, Head of Operation "SAMVEDI" and Shri Satender Kumar Gupta, IPS, SP/Hisar to the followers to vacate the Ashram. In the meantime, the followers attacked on police officers and men pelted stones, threw acid pouches, used chilly bombs and sling shots etc.There was intermittent firing from inside the Ashram simultaneously. One gunshot was fired from the Ashram aiming Shri Anil Kumar Rao but fortunately it did not hit him. The whole operation was successfully accomplished without any loss of life from any side due to professional approach adopted by police under the leadership of Shri Anil Kurpar Rao, IPS.

Shri Satender Kumar Gupta, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Hisar was also present at the main gate of the Ashram during the operation. He led the police party in accomplishing the said operation. At the place of their presence, few followers of Rampal suddenly came having canes of kerosene oil in their hands. They poured the kerosene oil on their body and lit fire upon their body in order to commit self-immolation. It was due to the efforts of Shri Satender Kumar Gupta and his team that these followers were saved and removed from the place.

Shri Anil Kumar Rao and SP Hisar were very near to the violent and attacking mob. The attackers had attacked both of them and other police force but they played a great role in order to fail their aim. They have given a valiant fight and were able to break the front boundary and first gate of Ashram. Both of them had sustained injuries but keeping in view the morale of police they also did not get themselves medically examined. SP, Hisar sustained injury on his head and his spectacles and mobile phone were broken. Blood was oozing from his head despite that he did not care for his injuries and life and fought bravely. Because of immense courage and conspicuous gallantry shown by both the officers, the whole operation was accomplished successfully without any loss of life from any side. Apart from the above, both the officers successfully removed the thousands of people safely from the Ashram to their homes.

In this regard, the case FIR No. 428 dated 18.11.2014 was registered initially under sections 107/147/148/149/186/188/120B/121/121A/122/123/224/225/307/332/342/353/436 of IPC and section 25 of Arms Act, Explosives Substances Act, 3/4 PDPP Act and Sections 16/18/20/22-C/23 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 PS Barwala against Rampal and his aides (followers). A Special Investigation Team was constituted to investigate the above said case. During the course of investigation, 18 fire arms, 19 Air guns, 45 Petrol Bombs, One Chilli Grenade, 04 Bullet proof jackets, 9675 lathies, 228 helmets and 26 cane shields were recovered from the Ashram.

In this action, Shri Anil Kumar Rao, IPS, Inspector General of Police, displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 17/11/2014.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 130-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Saqib Bashir Wani

Sub Inspector

02 Tariq Ahmad SGCT

03. Jagjit Singh SGCT

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 24/02/2015, Shopian Police, received an information that some dreaded terrorists are hiding in Village Heff District Shopian. Accordingly, the village was cordoned off with the assistance of 55 Bn RR & 14th Bn CRPF. After laying the cordon at 1700 hours search operation was started. During search process, presence of two terrorists in the house of Ahsan Padder R/o Heff was confirmed. At the first instance, cordon around the target/adjacent houses was tightened/strengthened and civilians including Children & women were evacuated out of the cordoned area. In order to make the operation successful, two assault groups were formed, first led by Shri Attaf Khan, SSP Shopian including SI Saqib Bashir which took position on the front side of the house while as second group led by Shri Sajjad Ahmad Shah, ASP Shopian including Sgct Jagjit Singh, Ct Tariq Ahmad took position on rear side of the house. In the meantime, terrorists were asked to surrender which they declined and in response started indiscriminate firing on assault groups to break the cordon and escape. However assault groups, led by SSP Shopian and ASP Shopian exhibited extra ordinary courage/determination and retaliated the fire in full volume without caring for their own lives. The ensuing gun battle resulted in elimination of one militant. However, other holed-up militant fired continuously/indiscriminately with the intention to keep the forces busy till dusk so that he could manage his escape under the cover of darkness. In the meantime, DIG of Police SKR Anantnag also arrived on spot to take stock of the situation. In order to avoid collateral damage during night hours, it was decided to suspend the operation for the night and maintain vigil around the target house. On the first light of 25-02-2015, the holed-up militant was again asked to surrender which he rejected and instead hurled grenades followed by firing. The above three police personnel, remained steadfast at their assigned positions, launched final assault with full strength and after a while firing from other side stopped. It was believed that the terrorist may have died in retaliatory fire. To ascertain the facts, a joint party of Police/SFs, under the supervision of SSP Shopian approached the main entrance of the house, however the injured terrorist suddenly came out & hurled grenades, followed by indiscriminate fire to which the operational party retaliated bravely/dedicatedly in self defense and eliminated the terrorist on spot. The slain terrorists were later identified as Ashiq Hussain Dar S/o GH Hassan Dar R/o Turkawanagam Shopian & Shabir Ahmad Ganie S/o Mohd Akram Ganie R/o Rabgam Pulwama of JeM outfit. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from the encounter site and case FIR No. 10/2015 U/S 307 RPC,7/27 A. Act was registered in PS Zainapora in this regard. SSP Shopian, ASP Shopian, SI Saqib Bashir, Sgct Jagjeet Singh and Const. Tariq Ahmad, exhibited extra ordinary courage and operational ability which resulted in completion of the successful operation without any collateral damage. The above police personnel, displayed presence of mind while evacuating the civilians, trapped in encounter area without caring for their lives. Although both the terrorists had tried their best to disrupt the evacuation process, the above police personnel without losing their cool, exhibited good application of mind and succeeded in their goal. The slain terrorists were involved in many terrorist activities. Their elimination gave a shocking jolt to terrorist groups and public heaved a sigh of relief in general and political activists/Panchs & Sarpanchs in particular.

Recovery:

1. Rifle AK- 47 (damaged) - 02 Nos.

2. Mag AK-47 (damaged) - 03 Nos.

3. UBGL - 01 No.

In this encounter, S/Shri Saqib Bashir Wani, Sub Inspector, Tariq Ahmad SGCT and Jagjit Singh, SGCT displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 24/02/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 131-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the 2nd Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Tanweer Ahmed Jeelani

(2nd Bar to PMG)

Dy. Superintendent of Police

02 Mohd Nawaz Khandey

(PMG)

Dy. Superintendent of Police

03. Irshad Ahmad Reshi

(1st Bar to PMG)

Inspector

04 Salfie Arshid Bangroo

(PMG)

Sub Inspector

05. Vinny Safaya

(PMG)

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 21.06.2015, Police Kulgam received a specific information regarding presence of terrorists in village Redwani Bala Kulgam, who had arrived in the area to carry out some subversive activity. Accordingly, a Police team under the command SSP Kulgam, rushed to the spot and cordoned the entire hamlet. In the meantime, operational men were divided into two teams one headed by Shri Tanweer Ahmed Jeelani-DYSP (Ops) Hatipora including Inspr. Irshad Ahmad, and another led by Shri Nawaz Ahmad Khanday, Dy.SP OPS Manzgam including S.I Salfie Arshid, Ct. Vinny Safaya & search operation was started. During search, militants were found hiding in the house of Muzaffar Ahmad Dar S/o Abdul Rehman Dar. After strengthening the cordon around target house, hidden militants were asked to surrender, however, they declined the offer and resorted to heavy fire followed by grenade lobbing so as to inflict collateral casualties and break the cordon to escape from the scene. However, advance parties particullarly Shri Tanweer Ahmed Jeelani-DY.SP (Ops) Hatipora, Shri Nawaz Ahmad Khanday, Dy.SP OPS Manzgam, Inspr. Irshad Ahmad, S.I Salfie Arshid, and Ct. Vinny Safaya, exhibited extra ordinary courage and retaliated the fire effectively which forced the militants to retreat. At that stage, first priority of the operational teams was to evacuate the civilians, trapped in the target house/adjacent houses. For the purpose operational teams in general and above police personnel in particular, showed presence of mind and extra ordinary courage and evacuated all the trapped civilians. The exchange of fire continued throughout the night at regular intervals, during which holed-up militants made several attempts to escape from the house, however operational party remained firm and did not provide any chance to them. The ensuing gun battle lasted for about twenty hours and culminated with the elimination of two hard core terrorists of LeT identified as Javeed Ahmad Bhat R/o Redwani and Idrees Ahmad Nangroo R/O Badroo. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from the encounter site and case FIR No. 114/2015 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 A. Act has been registered in P/S Kulgam.

The gallant and courageous action exhibited by Shri Tanweer Ahmed Jeelani-DY. SP (Ops) Hatipora, Shri Nawaz Ahmad Khanday, Dy.SP OPS Manzgam, Inspr. Irshad Ahmad, , S.I, Salfie Arshid, and Ct. Vinny Safaya, led to the elimination of these two hardcore militants who were active in the area, for pretty long time and were involved in number of criminal/tenor cases including killings of Police Constable Zahoor Ahmad Dar and follower Mohd Rafiq Mir, besides, they were also involved in four other case FIRs. With the elimination of slain terrorists, LeT received a tremendous set back.

Recovery:

1. AK 47 rifle : 01 No.

2. Magazine AK 47 : 01 No.

3. AK 47 rounds : 05 Nos.

4. SLR Rifle : 01 No.

5. SLR Magazine : 01 No.

6. SLR rounds : 30 Nos.

7. UBGL : 01 No.

8. UBGL thrower : 01 No.

In this encounter, S/Shri Tanweer Ahmed Jeelani, Dy. Superintendent of Police, Mohd Nawaz Khandey, Dy. Superintendent of Police, Irshad Ahmad Reshi, Inspector, Salfie Arshid Bangroo, Sub Inspector and Vinny Safayale, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of 2nd Bar to Police Medal/ 1st Bar to Police Medal/Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 22/06/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 132-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Zahoor Ahmad Wani Sub Inspector

02. Faisal Khan

Assistant Sub Inspector

03. Manzoor Ahmad Mir

Assistant Sub Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 04-10-2015, a specific information was received/developed by Police regarding presence of JeM operational Chief Saleem @ Aadil R/o Pak alongwith an associate, in the house of Manzoor Ahmad Bhat S/o Gh. Ahmad Bhat of village Hariparigam Awantipora. The operation was planned and cordon established around target house at 1600 hrs by Police Awantipora. After establishing the cordon, 03/42 RR and 10 Para were also inducted in the operation.

On noticing the presence of operational forces, militants, all of a sudden jumped out of the target house, firing indiscriminately followed by grenade lobbing to break the cordon and escape from the scene. However, SI Zahoor Ahmad Wani, ARP-115653, ASI Faisal Khan, 113/Awt, ASI Manzoor Ahmad, 213/Awt, and other team members, retaliated the fire effectively, forced militants to retreat and hide behind the compound wall of target house at two different locations. In the meantime, family members of target house rushed out towards the main gate for safety, however one of them stumbled and fell down inside the house compound who was instantly taken as hostage by one of hidden militant. The militants, through PA system were asked to surrender & set hostage member free which they declined. It was planned to evacuate the hostage civilian first, for which two parties were constituted one comprising upon ASI Faisal Khan, Sgct Tariq Ahmad, Ct. M. Shameem, Sgct Arfat Ahmad, Ct. Shabir Ahmad, Ct. Javid Ahmad and 10 SPOs, who without caring for their lives, very tactfully/professionally with courage & bravery managed to reach rear side of the wall where the civilian was kept hostage. The party engaged the militant in firing without targeting him owing to the fact that hostage person may get hit. As the militant got engaged in cross firing, the civilian got an opportunity to leap to other side of the wall where ASI Faisal along with his party was already waiting for him. The militant in a fit of rage also jumped the wall to shoot the civilian but was eliminated by the vigilant police party by responding with quick fire. On the other hand, another hidden militant was approached by second party comprising of ASI Manzoor along with Sgct Mukhtar Ahmad, Ct. Manzoor Ahmad, Ct. Mukhtar Ahmad, Ct. Muneer Ahmad, Ct. Amir Rasool and 09 SPOs, in the same professional manner. A fierce face to face gun battle started which lasted for some time & fire from the other end stopped. It was difficult to ascertain whether the militant was dead or alive, however, SI Zahoor Ahmad, ASI Manzoor with some police men volunteered to go ahead to ascertain his death. They moved towards the militants in a skillful manner, militant who had sustained bullet injuries and was pretending to be dead, abruptly tried to lob grenade towards the approaching party, however the vigilant party fired and eliminated him. The slain militants were later identified as (1) Saleem @ Aadil and (2) Rehman @ Chota Burmi R/o Pak of JeM outfit. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No.101/2015 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 A.Act stands registered in P/S Awantipora. The Slain militants were involved in various criminal/terror cases including grenade attack at Bus stand Tral on 05-12-2014 in which 05 civilians died and 23 got injured. The militants were also involved in kidnapping of Shakeel Ahmad Shah and Mousin Majid R/O Peernar, and indiscriminately firing on a patrolling party at Gadpora Tral.

Recovery:

1. AK 47 : 02 Nos.

2. AK Mag : 04 Nos.

3. AK Rounds : 80 Nos.

4. Hand grenade : 01 No.

In this encounter, S/Shri Zahoor Ahmad Wani, Sub Inspector, Faisal Khan, Assistant Sub Inspector and Manzoor Ahmad Mir, Assistant Sub Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 04/10/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 133-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Mumtaz Ahmed

Superintendent of Police

02. Zaheer Abbas

Dy. Superintendent of Police

03. Davinder Singh Sub Inspector

04. Sonam Stobgais SGCT

05. Mohd Hussain Wani SGCT

(1st Bar to PMG)

(1st Bar to PMG)

(PMG)

(PMG)

(PMG)

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 28.10.2015, Shri Mumtaz Ahmed, SSP Kulgam generated a specific intelligence regarding presence of LeT terrorist commander Abu Qasim in village Khandipora Kulgam, who had arrived in the area to revive strategies/plans of his outfit and to chalk out future activities. Operation was planned strategically, keeping in view the significance of the information and before launching the operation, information was shared with 09-RR/18th Battalion CRPF. Operational men, under the supervision of SSP Kulgam, moved covertly towards target area through multiple directions. Chink proof cordon of entire hamlet was established to ensure that said militant may not be provided any chance to escape, as he had several times managed his escape from cordons even after inflicting casualties to police/SFs.

After laid down of unyielding cordon, search operation was started and location of militant was ascertained in Bonpora Mohalla of village Khandipora. All possible escape routes of the target Mohalla were sealed and first priority was given to evacuation process of civilians, trapped in cordoned area. At that time, SSP Kulgam alongwith other team members of advance party which include Shri Zaheer Abbas, DYSP Ops Kulgam, SI Davinder Singh, ARP-115630, Sgct. Sonam Stobgais, ARP-996597 and Sgct. Mohd Hussain, EXK-984253 made several attempts and succeeded in evacuation of all civilians. As it was getting dark, proper arrangements including illumination of the target area and laid down of concertina wire on all possible escape routes were made. Operational men were accordingly briefed/sensitized by Shri Mumtaz Ahmad, SSP Kulgam regarding importance of the operational and capabilities of trapped terrorist. In the meantime, SSP Kulgam constituted two teams, one under his command and second under the command of Shri Zaheer Abass, Dy. SP operation Kulgam for result oriented operation. Hidden terrorist through Public Adress System was asked to surrender which he declined and under proper planning came out with indiscriminate firing and grenade lobbing in order to break the cordon and escape from the scene. However, Shri Mumtaz Ahmad, SSP Kulgam and Shri Sajad Ahmad, Dy. SP operation Kulgam alongwith their team members which included SI Davinder Singh, Sgct. Sonam Stobgais, and Sgct. Mohd Hussain, exhibited extra ordinary courage and bravery and retaliated the fire effectively which forced the militant to retreat. The holed up militant made several such attempts to create a chink in the unyielding cordon but operational men in general and the above police personnel in particular kept their nerves and did not provide any chance to holed up militant to break the cordon from988 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 any of the side. In the meantime militant sensing noose around his neck, made an attempt with full volume of firing and grenade lobbing and came out, but with effective retaliation by above police personnel, militant was forced to take shelter behind mosque of target Mohalla. The above police personnel pinpointed the hidden militant behind mosque and made a final assault which resulted in elimination of terrorist later identified as Abdul Rehman @ Abu Oasim R/o Bahawalnor Pakistan Div Commander of LeT. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No.223/2015 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 I.A Act, stands registered in P/S Kulgam in this regard.The exceptional/instrumental role, exhibited by Shri Mumtaz Ahmad, SSP Kulgam, Shri Zaheer Abbas, Dy SP operation Kulgam, SI Davinder Singh, Sgct. Sonam Stobgais, and Sgct. Mohd Hussain during the entire operation was remarkable. It was only immaculate intelligence generation, planning, extreme presence of tactical acumen/mind, and determination which led to successful operation without any collateral damage. The elimination of militant was great success to SFs and a big jolt to LeT outfit in the State.

The slain militant was active in the state since last 05 years. He was involved in a number of terror/criminal cases including Udhampur attack on the BSF Convey on 5th of August 2015 in which two BSF Jawans lost their lives and 12 others sustained injuries, killing of Inspector Mohd Altaf Dar at Gund Dachin Bandipora on 7th of Oct 2015, fidayeen attack at Hayderpora Srinager Bypass in which 08 Army Jawans lost their lives and several others sustained injuries, killing of Dr. Jalal ud Di, Ex. Director of SKIMS and his PSO, attack on BSF Bus near Kadlabal Pampore in which six BSF personnel including Dy. Commandant sustained injuries, attack on police party at Galander Pampore in which two constables got killed, killing of SHO P/S Chadoora in year 2013, killing of 02 .CRPF personnel in the year 2013, killing of two SPOs at Court Complex Pulwama in year 2014, in firing at Batapora Tokuna on 04/11/2014, killing of one policeman and one Army Jawan at Qaiser Mullah Chadoora, killing/weapon snatching of CRPF personnel at Awnuoora Zainpora Shopian, attack on CRPF election party at Nagbal Zain Pora Shopian in which several CRPF personal were injured and one teacher was killed, attack on police party at Shopian and attack on Hotel Silver Star at Bypass Srinagar in which two innocent civilians were killed . He was the main recruiter and recruited about 25 local youth into Let outfit.

Recoveries made :—

1. AK 47 rifle - 01 No.

2. Mag AK - 02 Nos.

3. Live round - 09 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Mumtaz Ahmed, Senior Superintendent of Police, Zaheer Abbas, Dy. Superintendent of Police, Davinder Singh, Sub Inspector, Sonam Stobgais, SGCT and Mohd Hussain Wani, SGCT displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of 1st Bar to Police Medal/Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 29/10/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 134-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Tanveer Jeelani

(1st Bar to PMG)

Superintendent of Police

02. Sajad Ahmad Malik

(PMG)

Dy. Superintendent of Police

(PMG)

03. Gulzar Hussain Khan Head Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 12.09.2015 at about 1400 hours, Police Srinagar received a specific information about presence of Militant in village Naman, Begambagh Kakpora, Pulwama. Accordingly Police Srinagar and troops of 50 RR under the close supervision of Shri Tanveer Jillani„ SP, PC Srinagar immediately rushed to the spot and cordon off the entire hamlet. For result oriented operation, the operational men were divided into three teams. First team headed by Syed Majid Mosavi, Dy.SP PC Srinagar and troops of 50 RR, was tasked to lay outer cordon of the targeted area, second team headed by DySP, FurqanPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 989 Qadir of PC Srinagar cordoned the target Mohalla and the third party under the supervision of Dy. SP Sajad Ahmad Malik included HC Gulzar Hussain, EXK-973256 was tasked to lay inner cordon of the target house belonging to Mohammad Yousuf Dar. In the meantime, hidden militant on noticing the presence of the operational men under proper plan to escape from the scene, came out suddenly and started indiscriminate firing. However, advance party which included the above police personnel, chased the militant with effective retaliation, which forced him to take shelter in nearby maize fields. Keeping in view the presence of civilians in the maize field and in adjacent paddy fields, retaliation fire was stopped.

At the stage, Shri Tanveer Jellani SP PC Srinagar constituted two small parties, one headed by. DySP Sajad Ahmad Malik and another by HC Gulzar Hussain and started to Zero the target from all directions. As soon as advance parties which included the above police personnel started to proceed towards holdup militants, he out of frustration started indiscriminate firing. However, men of advance parties kept militant busy from different directions and Shri Tanveer Jeelani SP, PC Srinagar alongwith DySP Sajad Ahmad Malik, Dy.SP PC Srinagar and HC Gulzar Hussain, crawled closer to militant and made final assault effectively without caring for their personal lives which resulted in elimination of the militant later identified as Irshad Ganai @ Abu Abdullah Naveed @ Rehman-ul-Umar S/o Ab. Majeed Ganai R/o Larikipora, Awantipora Group Commander of Let outfit. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No. 289/2015 U/S 307 RPC, 7/25 A. Act stands registered in P/S Pulwama in this regard. The slain terrorist was active in South/Central Kashmir Ranges for last five years and was involved in various criminal/terror incidents including attacks on SFs, grenade lobbing at crowded/market places, weapon snatching incidents and was responsible for threatening/resignation of Sarpanchs/Panchs in the area. The elimination of slain militant was a big jolt to Let outfit, great success for security forces and was a big sigh of relief for general public, particularly in Central/South Kashmir Ranges.

Recoveries made :—

1. AK 56 rifle : 01 No. damaged

2. Magazine AK-56 : 02 Nos. (01 damaged)

3. Live rounds : 59 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Tanveer Jeelani, Superintendent of Police, Sajad Ahmad Malik, Dy. Superintendent of Police and Gulzar Hussain Khan, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of 1st Bar to Police Medal/Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 12/09/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 135-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Javaid Iqbal

Superintendent of Police

02. Rakesh Pandita

Assistant Sub Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 06-08-2015 at 1350 hours, Police Pulwama received information about the presence of a militant at village Astan Mohalla Kakapora who was planning to carry out terror activities in the area. Information was further developed/specified by Shri Javaid Iqbal-KPS ASP Pulwama and it was ascertained that militant is hiding in the jointly owned house of Abdul Majid Sofi S/o Ali Mohd and Arshid Ahmed Sofi S/o Abdul Gani. After sharing the information with 50 RR, 182/183 Bns CRPF, joint cordon of the target Mohalla was established under the command of ASP Pulwama Shri Javaid Iqbal, KPS assisted by a police party from PC Pulwama which included ASI Rakesh Pandita No. 252/PL, troops of 50 RR and 182/183 Bns CRPF.

During, search operation of the area, the militant hiding in the target house started indiscriminate firing on the police party in order to break the cordon and escape from the scene. However, due to presence of mind and extra ordinary courage, exhibited by Shri Javaid Iqbal-KPS (ASP Pulwama) assisted by other team members including ASI Rakesh Pandita, fire was retaliated effectively which triggered an encounter. The first challenge for the operational party was to evacuate civilians, trapped in the target house and in adjoining houses. Accordingly, a Police team under the supervision of ASP Pulwama990 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 including ASI Rakesh Pandita who without caring for their precious lives, succeeded in evacuating all the trapped civilians. After evacuation process, militant was asked to surrender, which he declined and instead fired indiscriminately. As it got dark, several measures like laying down of concertina wire and illuminating of target area etc. were taken so as to foil every attempt of militant to escape from the cordoned area. However, firing continued throughout the night and same was retaliated with full volume. In the morning at about 0400 hours, operation was re-started and it was decided to launch a final assault. For the purpose, two teams were constituted one headed by Shri Javaid Iqbal, KPS ASP Pulwama included ASI Rakesh Pandita and another troops of Army/CRPF. These teams, particularly the police team started the final assault which resulted in elimination of holed up militant later identified as Mohd Afzal Shah @ Talib S/O Shamsdin Shah R/o Kakapora of LeT outfit. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from the encounter site and case FIR No.36/2015 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 I. A. Act stands registered in Police Station Pulwama in this regard. The slain militant was active for last 2 years and was involved in 14 case FIRs. Furthermore, slain was mastermind in motivating the new youth to join the militant ranks, he succeeded in motivating terrorists like Adil Ahmed Shergojri, Mohd Ayoub Lone Kakpora, Reyaz Ahmed @ Sheeraz, Mansor Ahmed Bhat and Azad Ahmed Lone. Slain was also a big threat for Panchayat members of the area and was responsible for resignation of many of them. His elimination was a huge setback to militant cadres particularly for LeT outfit and was a great relief for security forces/civilians in Kashmir province particularly in south Kashmir.

Recoveries made :—

1. Rifle (AK 56) without Butt : 01 No.

2. Mag (AK 56) : 04 Nos.

3. Rounds (AK-56) : 105 Nos.

4. Grenade : 01 No.

In this encounter, S/Shri Javaid Iqbal, Superintendent of Police and Rakesh Pandita, Assistant Sub Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of 1st Bar to Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 06/08/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 136-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Pankaj Sharma Sub Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 26/10/2015 at about 1620 hours, a specific intelligence was generated by Police Pulwama regarding presence of militants in village Drubgam Bala. Accordingly joint cordon around the entire hamlet was established with assistance of 44-RR, 182/183 Battalions CRPF, four teams were constituted and the team headed by Dy.SP and S.I Pankaj Sharma started search of the target area and the search party reached near the house of Abdul Ahad Bhat. Militants hiding inside jumped from the rear window and under the cover of indiscriminate firing ran towards the orchards, adjacent to said house. However, advance search party which included Dy.SP and S.I Pankaj Sharma, exhibited extra ordinary courage and retaliated the fire effectively, thereby provided no chance to militants to break the cordon. One militant took position behind an apple tree and advance party which included SI Pankaj Sharma engaged him in close fire fight which lasted for some time and culminated with the elimination of that militant.

Another militant was continuously firing from another direction due to which one Army personnel of 44-RR Shri Kankara V.Subba Reddy sustained injuries. He was immediately evacuated and shifted to the nearest medical establishment for first aid/treatment. By that time, it was noticed that some civilians were also got trapped in the target/adjoining houses. The team under the supervision of Dy. SP which also included S.I Pankaj Sharma started evacuation of trapped civilians and by repeated attempts all the trapped civilians were evacuated. After completion of rescue operation, the team made a final assault on hidden militant and succeeded in eliminating him. The slain militants were later identified as Aafaqullah Bhat S/O Ab Rashid Bhat R/O Karimabad Pulwama and Abdul Manan Dar S/O Bashir Ahmad Dar R/O Amerbough Shopian of HM outfit. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No.71/2015 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 A. Act stands registered in P/S Rajpora in this regard. The slain militants were involved in number of criminal/terror activities including three FIRs registered in three different districts. S.I Pankaj Sharma fought bravely without caring for his personal life during the whole encounter process right from laying of cordon to final assault and took front in elimination of both the militants.

Recovery:

1. Rifle (AK-47) : 01 No.

2. Rifle (AK-56) : 01 No.

3. Mag AK : 03 Nos.

4. AK rounds : 109 Nos.

5. AK rounds : 05 Nos. (damaged)

In this encounter, Shri Pankaj Sharma, Sub Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of 1st Bar to Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 26/10/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 137-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Tsewang Namgail Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 30/12/2015, at about 1802 hours, SP Pulwama received a specific information regarding presence of militants in the house of Mohd Altaf Bhat S/o Mohd Ali Bhat of village Gusoo, who were planning to carry out some terror activity in the area. Accordingly, operational men of Police, 53-RR and 182/183 Battalions of CRPF rushed to the target village and laid cordon of entire hamlet including target village. In the meantime, while zeroing the target house, hidden militants on noticing the presence of operational men started indiscriminate firing in order to escape from the scene. However, advance party which included Inspr. Tsewang Namgail, EXK-046064 exhibiting presence of mind, quickly took positions, retaliated the fire with full volume which forced the militants to retreat. In the meantime, it was observed that some civilians got trapped in target area and for their evacuation, a team which included Insp Tsewang Namgail was constituted. The team despite heavy firing from other side, succeeded in evacuation of trapped civilians in various attempts. The operation was suspended, owing to darkness after ensuring all required measures for checking militant escape during dark hours. Next day in wee hours, holed-up militants were asked to surrendered, but they denied the offer instead started indiscriminate firing and hurled grenades, however, advance party which include Inspr. Tsewang Namgail, again exhibited extra ordinary courage and bravery and retaliated the fire with full volume in fierce gun battle. The gun battle lasted for some time and culminated with elimination of holed up militants without any collateral damage and loss of property. The slain militants were later identified as Manzoor Ahmed Bhat District Commander of LeT outfit S/o Abdul Rashid Bhat R/o Alochibagh Sajnboora Pulwama and Ukasha @ Muslim Bhai R/O Pakistan who was recently accessed in district Pulwama from Kupwara/Handwara area. A huge cache of arms ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No.413/2015 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 A. Act stands registered in Police Station Pulwama.The slain militants were most wanted by security forces, as they were involved in various criminal/terror attacks and were also involved in the conspiracy of BSF Convoy attack at Udhampur. The elimination of duo was a huge setback to LeT outfit and a relief for security forces/civilians in Kashmir province particularly in South and Central Kashmir ranges.

Recoveries made :—

1. Rifle (AK-47) : 02 No. ( one damaged)

2. Mag AK 47 : 04 Nos. (02 damaged)

3. AK Rounds : 66 Nos.

In this encounter, Shri Tsewang Namgail, Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 30/12/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty992 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 No. 138-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jammu & Kashmir Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Amit Verma

Dy. Superintendent of Police

02. Shakil-Ur-Rahman

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 13.03.2013, a fidayeen attack was carried out by two Pakistani terrorists namely Saif and Haider of LeT outfit at Bemina Police Public School. During the fierce gun battle, five CRPF personnel lost their lives, six CRPF personnel and four civilians were injured. During the gun battle, both the terrorists were also eliminated. Immediately, after this gruesome attack, a special team of Police Component Srinagar under the supervision of SSP Srinagar including Dy.SP Amit Verma, Sgct. Shakil-ur-Rahman, and others was constituted to identify and subsequently neutralize the culprits behind this attack. During investigation, a suspicious mobile number was identified which was subsequently analyzed to unearth the real conspiracy. Meanwhile, a shabby character hailing from Uri area, who was believed to be behind this incident was identified. Inputs generated in this regard revealed that Bashir Ahmad Mir @ Haroon S/O Mir Zaman Mir R/O Uri, Baramulla of LeT outfit with the assistance of one Mukhtar Ahmad Shah and Pradeep Singh Bali of LeT outfit were responsible for this attack.

In the follow up action to intelligence input generated, men from PC Srinagar were deputed to Batamaloo bye-pass in the evening of 13/03/2013 where it was reported that Bashir Ahmad Mir @ Haroon of LeT outfit was to travel towards some unknown place in a private vehicle. The men laid a NAKA and started searching vehicles and pedestrians. After some time, Police party noticed that one passenger travelling in a private vehicle while passing through checking point tried to avoid search. The NAKA party acted swiftly and caught hold of the passenger. He was put on spot questioning during which he disclosed his identity as Bashir Ahmad Mir @ Haroon S/O Mir Zaman Mir R/O Uri Baramulla, affiliated with LeT outfit. During further interrogation, he accepted responsibility of Fedayeen attack carried out a Bemina Bye-pass. Upon his disclosure, it came to surface that one terrorist namely Mohammad Zubair @ Talha Zarrar R/O Multan Pakistan, who was also a part of Fedayeen attack made his safe passage and has been provided shelter by the said terrorist in the residential house of one of his relative at Chattabal Srinagar. Accordingly, an operation was planned and a party was dispatched to the location in advance to identify the target house where the said Pakistani terrorist was hiding.

On 14.03.2013, a Police team from PC Srinagar led by Dy. SP Amit Verma assisted by SGCT Shakil-ur-Rahman laid a secret cordon in Chattabal area. Target house was spotted where the above said Pakistani terrorist was hiding. To avoid any collateral damage, the police party was divided into two groups, one group comprising of Dy.SP Amit Verma, Inspr. Sgct. Shakil-ur-rahman and others for laying the inner cordon and second group laid down outer cordon. At 0130 hours, SP PC Srinagar who was the overall incharge of the operation formed a small team of PC Srinagar under the command of Dy.SP Amit Verma for evacuation of the inmates of the target house and subsequently elimination of the terrorist. The team very tactfully and bravely evacuated the inmates and civilians from adjoining houses of old densely inhabited city. In the first instance, the holed up terrorist was asked to opt for surrender, which he ignored and opened fire on operational party. The inner cordon party retaliated. After this at around 0400 hours intervention of the house was planned. However, as the intervention party reached near the target house, it came under heavy volume of fire from the hiding terrorist. Terrorist also lobbed two grenades towards the operational party. At this stage, Dy.SP Amit Verma, who was the Incharge of the inner cordon party constituted two more small teams to enter the house from front side as well as from rear side. As the second party tried to enter the house from the rear side, the holed up terrorist lobbed grenade from a window. Then first party headed by Amit Verma, crawled nearer to the window which frustrated the terrorist who started firing indiscriminately in an attempt to break the cordon and runaway. Noticing the attempts of terrorist, second party headed by Inspr. Sheetal Charak retaliated fire effectively without caring for their personal lives and did not allow the terrorist to flee, with the result the terrorist got frustrated. At this stage silence was noticed for at least two minutes. It was guessed that either the ammunition of holed terrorist has finished or he is trying to make final attempt to make safe passage with more and more collateral damage. At this stage, a call of surrender was given to the holed terrorist again. The terrorist in a clever move agreed for surrender, only to give slip to the police party. The police party including Dy.SP Amit Verma, and Sgct. Shakil-ur-Rahman came openly in the hall and bravely asked the terrorist for surrender. The terrorist came in front of Police party from behind the wardrobe and jumped out of a window to escape but the police party reacted swiftly and apprehended a Pakistani trained terrorist alongwith weapon and live ammunition. The bravery and courage shown by Dy.SP Amit Verma and Sgct. Shakil-ur-Rahman in making the apprehension of Pakistani terrorist possible and recovery of huge quantity of Arms/Ammunition from his possession.

Recovery:

1.   AK 47-                              :       01 No.
2.   Mag AK 47                           :       04 Nos.
3.   Rds AK 55                           :       177 Nos.
4.   Hand grenade(Blue)                  :       17 Nos.
5.   Hand grenade(grey)                  :       19 Nos.
6.   UBGG thrower                        :       01 No.
7.   UBGL grenade shell silver colour    :       40 Nos.
8.   High explosive box (filled)         :       02 Nos.
9.   Timer (casio-F-19W)                 :       02 Nos.
10.  Fuse cum detonator                  :       02 Nos.
11.  Remote control kit                  :       12 Nos.
12.  Map                                 :       01 No.
13.  GPS German ETREX                    :       03 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Amit Verma, Dy. Superintendent of Police and Shakil-Ur-Rahman, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 14/03/2013.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 139-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Jharkhand Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Md. Arshi, IPS

SDPO

02. Ajay Thakur

Sub Inspector

03. Subodh Kumar Constable

04. Javed Akhtar

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

Based on specific intelligence input, a special Ops "NEPTUNE SPEAR-15" was launched on 12/03/2015 with an objective to search and destroy Maoists camps functioning near village Sargaon, under PS- Chainpur, Distt- Gumla (Jharkhand). For the special Ops, a joint ops party involving 4 teams of 209 CoBRA, one Assault Group of Jharkhand Jaguar and the officers and personnel of Gumla Police were desolved to form other strike Teams, One Cut-Off Team and Two Base Camps.

As per Operation-Plan, out of the two Strike teams, One Strike team was under the Leadership of SDPO, Gumla cum ASP Gumla Mr. M. Arshi, IPS accompanying with his Bodyguards CT Subodh Kumar, Ct Javed Akhtar and Sub Inspector Ajay Thakur officer in charge, Palkot Police Station, Gumla along with four teams of 209 battalion Cobra and one Assault Group of Jharkhand Jaguar with officer and jawans.

It was decided that Strike Team led by Mr M. Arshi, SDPO, Gumla would enter forest of village Sargaon from East direction. On 13/3/2015 at about 0730 hrs, when the Strike Team was approaching the target area, with in the Strike Team its commander Mr M. Arshi SDPO Gumla with his bodyguards Ct Subodh Kumar, Ct Javed Akhtar, SI Ajay Thakur and Mr. Vivekanand Singh, Deputy Commandant, SI/GD Lakhan Lal Meena, moving in the front and were few yards ahead of rest of the Team. These members at the front observed some suspicious movement in a nallah just few meters before the994 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 target. The Strike Commander Mr M. Arshi SDPO Gumla immediately alerted the whole party and advanced ahead tactically along with his bodyguards Ct Subodh Kumar and Ct Javed Akhtar and Mr. Vivekanand, Deputy Commandant, SI/GD- Lakhan Lal Meena of 209 CoBRA, but the Maoists sensing the movement of the troops in their direction, opened heavy volume of fire, hurled Grenades and exploded IEDs to deter advance of this front Team. On attack Strike Team at the front immediately took position and Mr M. Arshi SDPO Gumla warned Maoists that "We are Police, drop weapons and surrender" but the Maoist did not deter by the warning and kept targeting team from different directions with LMG, Grenade and other sophisticated automatic weapons. The attacking Maoist were repeatedly and loudly warned to surrender by SDPO Gumla and SI Ajay Thakur but the Maoists did not lend their ear to the call of surrender and carried on targeted firing at police force. Then in the self defense Strike Team Commander Mr M. Arshi SDPO Gumla ordered troops to open fire at intervals to repulse the Maoist attack.

Mr M. Arshi SDPO Gumla without caring for personal safety was firing at Maoists and was crawling to other operation team members to encourage and directing them about firing. Mr M. Arshi alongwith his bodyguards Ct Subodh Kumar and Ct Javed Akhtar and Mr. Vivekanand, Deputy Commandant, SI/GD- Lakhan Lal Meena of 209 CoBRA, exhibiting exemplary courage continued to advance in the direction of coming fire from Maoists side. Due to their audacious action, the other team members were also encouraged to retaliate effectively. The retaliatory firing by front team under leadership of Mr M. Arshi caused severe damage to attacking Maoists, deteriorated morale of Maoist weakened them and made them receded continuously thus forcing the Maoists to dislocate from the defended location held by them.

While the Front Team under the leadership of Mr M. Arshi was engaged in fire at the front, SI Ajay Thakur, OC Palkot PS observed some suspicious movement on the hillock on his right side. He immediately alerted his team about the suspicious movement. SI Ajay Thakur, with his troops advanced tactically towards the hillock along with 209 CoBRA personnel but as soon as they started negotiating the hill, the Maoists holding defended position on the hillock resorted to incessant fire and IED explosion to deter their advance. Despite coming under hostile fire, SI Ajay Thakur, along with 209 CoBRA personnel undeterred by the sudden attack, continued negotiating the hillock and retaliated effectively. Due to their daredevil action the other team members were also encouraged to charge in the direction and repulse the maoist attack by neutralizing one Maoist and forcing others to flee. The firing continued till about 0900 hrs and despite incessant firing and IED explosions by the Maoists, the troops under exemplary command of Mr M. Arshi SDPO Gumla foiled the nefarious attempt of Maoists and saved many precious lives.

The entire operation was executed in an exemplary manner which is an epitome in the annals of successful operations. The Maoists, who were in advantageous position, were taken by surprise, repulsed and compelled to abandon their position. They escaped from their location leaving behind 01 dead body of Maoist. During the search operation, blood spots and blood trails were also found towards escape route of Maoists. It was informed by the reliable sources that few other Maoists were killed and few were critically injured during encounter but they were carried by Maoists taking advantage of dense forest and hills. Along with the dead body of Maoist an American Semi - Automatic Rifle(US Rifle, Springfield), 02 Magazines, 110 bullets, 01 Hand Grenade, 01 walky-talky (Motorola) and other items were found. The deceased was later identified as Sub-Zonal Commander Bhupesh @ Deepak Jee. The operation inflicted an unprecedented damage on the morale and preparation of Maoists.

In this encounter, S/Shri Md. Arshi, IPS, SDPO, Ajay Thakur, Sub Inspector, Subodh Kumar, Constable and Javed Akhtar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 13/03/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 140-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Maharashtra Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Nitin Ankush Mane

Asst. Police Inspector

02. Mallesh Pocham Kedamwar

Head Constable

03. Jitendra Motiram Maragaye

Naik

04. Gajendra Hirji Saunjal

ConstablePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 995

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 08/05/2016, at 1645hrs, Addl SP (Ops.), Gadchiroli received intelligence from reliable sources about the presence of 10 to 12 armed naxalites in the forest area of Horrekasa and also presence of 2-3 naxal cadres in the village. He immediately planned an operation and tasked Mallesh Kedamwar C-60 party led by PSI Rajesh Khandwe to conduct anti naxal operation in the area. PSI Rajesh Khandwe, C-60 Party commander Mallesh Kedamwar along with his 14 commandos set out for the operation at 1730 hrs.

The police party reached the forest of Horrekasa at 1830 hrs and then it split into three small groups as per the plan. They surrounded the village from three directions and began to close in searching through every lane and house. As the police parties approached a house situated at the middle of the village, suddenly a volley of fire was shot at them from a house. The police personnel immediately took cover on the ground and appealed the naxalties for surrender. Three sides of the house were surrounded by homes of villagers and the fourth side was surrounded by fixed bamboo fencing/wall. The location of the house was challenging to the police since there was hardly any place to take cover and fire at the enemy. Moreover, the enemy was at the 1st floor of the house and the 1st floor was accessible only through a ladder fixed at the opening on the roof of ground floor.

The naxals in the house took hostage of two villagers already present in the house. HC/1961 Mallesh Kedamwar and his team requested Gaon Patil (village Pramukh) and villagers to give a message to naxal cadres to surrender before police. However, the naxal cadres present in the house sent the Gaon Patil back and warned them that, "the issue is between police and us. villagers better not interfere in the matter, we are not going to let go the police party so easily. Thereafter, the naxalites opened intense fire upon the police party in which two policemen namely NPC/1683 Jitendra Margaye and PC/3083 Ramesh Asam were injured. HC Mallesh Kedamwar, without wasting time, putting his life at risk, rushed ahead and opened counter fire at the naxalites, while NPC/1693 Jitendra Margaye gave him cover fire. At this time, API Nitin Mane and PC/830 Gajendra Saunjal taking high risk climbed the wall with the help of a ladder and smashed the window with an iron rod. Thereafter, they opened rapid fire into the room through the open window space. Then the duo climbed onto the roof top and opened burst fire from there (after having dislodged some roof-top tiles). This was extremely risky maneuver since they fired from a very close range without cover. PSI Rajesh Khandwe passed message to Addl. SP and requested for additional force.

Addl. SP(Ops) Gadchiroli, upon receipt of such information, immediately chalked out a plan, suitably briefed the men and sent additional manpower. Accordingly, at 2100 hrs, PC/2279 Shamrao Dugga along with the police party reached Horrekasa and flanked the house from southern side. At around 2100 hrs, API Nitin Mane along with 9 men flanked the house from northern side and at 2130 hrs, Dy SP, along with 15 men and a team of doctors reached the place of incident and sent the injured men for medical treatment while the naxalites kept firing at the direction of police parties.

Some naxal supporters in the village started interfering the ongoing operation and created further trouble for the police party. Dy. SP (Ops) with the help of his team ensured the evacuation of villagers from the firing spot. He once again appealed naxalites to surrender but they opened fire on police party. Dy.SP, asked the men to resort to control fire. He along with five other men risking their lives, brought the mine protected vehicle close to the house for the cover and opened controlled fire at the naxalites. Despite the heavy-fire from naxalites, he then marched up to the house and-pulled out the staircase leading to the first floor of the house. He and his team first evacuated the two hostages in the house. Thereafter, he tactically whirled a hand grenade at the ground floor causing them to setback for a while considering the gravity of the situation, Superintendent of Police, Gadchiroli decided to send Add1. SP Operations to the spot. Addl. SP along with 11 commandos rushed to the spot by mine protected vehicles. He assumed the leadership of the ongoing operation. Naxalites in the house continued to fire indiscriminately at police party. Main challenge for the police was to evacuate the civilians in the neighboring houses so as to avoid casualties and collateral damage. Addl. SP and his team putting their life at risk-ensured safe evacuation of villagers and naxal supporters from the spot and surrounding houses. Along with three commandos, he approached the house from northern side. As he was crawling forward, he faced volley of fire. Just in front of him. Without yielding to the fire opened by the naxalites, in such a frightful situation, he helped other men in maintaining their morale and reached up to the bamboo fencing put up at one side of the house. Addl. SP along with PC/3634 Shiva Gorle was engaged in dislodging the bamboo fencing with the help of cover fire, another volley of bullets were fired at them by the naxalties. After bringing down the bamboo fencing, he order Shiva Gone to fire an UBGL shell through the door of ground floor and gave cover fire to Shiva Gone. Then under the cover fire opened by the policemen behind him, he along with PC/3634 Shiva Gone reached up to the door of the house and opened fire from a close range.

Because of this heavy exchange of fire, the house was -caught in a fire; roof of the ground floor started falling down and began to burn. Hence, API Nitin Mane, PC/830 Gajendra Saunjal, Addl. SP (Ops.) and Shiva Gorle they all at once distanced themselves from their spots and took position. In the meantime, the naxalite came out of the house opening heavy fire upon the police cut off party lead by PC/165 Arvindkumar Madavi. He risking his life, attacked this naxalite by opening counter fire and he succeeded in injuring the hardcore naxalite. But, despite sustaining injury, the naxalite fled away taking cover of forest in the darkness of night. When the firing completely subsided, the police party with the help of villagers made an all-out effort for extinguishing the fire. Addl. SP (Ops) called for the fire brigade and when the fire was completely996 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 brought under control, he along with other policemen entered the house. Upon searching the house, one burnt dead body, one AK-47 rifle, one .303 rifle, empty cases of AK47 rifle & .303 rifle were found.

The entire operation took 11 hours to finish. In the history of naxal affected area, this is the first time where exchange of fire between naxals and police continued for such a long duration, that too in the village. The greatest achievement of the police in this Operation is that there was not a single casualty of either civilians or police. The 11 hour long hostage situation like operation resulted in eliminating hardcore naxalite and senior naxal cadre named Rajita @ Samma Birja Usendi, Area Committee Secretary, Chatgaon Dalam. She had committed hundreds of crime in Gadchiroli district in the past and had a reward of Rs. 16 lacs on her head.

In this encounter, S/Shri Nitin Ankush Mane, Asst. Police Inspector, Mallesh Pocham Kedamwar, Head Constable, Jitendra Motiram Maragaye, Naik and Gajendra Hirji Saunjal, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 09/05/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 141-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Maharashtra Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Dattatray Bhimrao Kale

Sub Inspector

02. Doge Dolu Atram

(Posthumously)

Naik

03. Swarup Ashok Amrutkar

(Posthumously)

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 22/03/2015 based on a secret information received from the informant and as per orders and guiding instruction of seniors, PSI Dattatray Kale and PSI Dilip Lokhande along with three party commanders namely, NPC/531 Vinod Hichami, NPC/2320 Shankar Gota, NPC/2276 Rajesh Topo with their teams launched an anti-naxal search operation in the Hikker forest area, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Etapalli which is a strong hold of Naxalites. They tactically divided in two groups and traversing through the hilly and thickly forested terrain of Hikker forest area on foot. At about 1650 hrs, the parties were moving towards Musparshi Village-1 KM North. While the Police Party was crossing the river Parlkota, they were suddenly attacked by 60 to 70 armed naxalites. The naxalites who were laid an ambush in the forest, at once opened indiscriminate fire on finding the police team in the killing zone. The police personnel immediately took position on the ground taking available cover behind the rocks and simultaneously retaliated the fire of naxalites.

In spite of initial domination by naxals due to prior advantageous positions of terrain, NPC/2724 Doge Atram opened fire towards Naxalites to pressurize them to restrain from moving forward and selflessly advanced towards the group of naxals. However, due to indiscriminate fire from left side NPC Doge Atram was hit by bullets and fell down. The naxalites were about to whisk him and his arm-ammunition away, but PC/5589 Kanna Hichami started giving cover fire and proceeded towards NPC Doge Atram crawling on his knees and fired upon naxalites and held them up from doing a gory act. At that movement, he received bullet shot injury on his left shoulder. Despite being injured, he ensured that his fellow soldier and his weaponry is saved.

Simultaneously, PSI Dattatray Kale and NPC/2990 Swaroop Amrutkar, who were on the other flank, opened fire towards naxals who were trying to encircle the party from left side, but unfortunately during the- exchange of gun fire NPC Swarop Amrutkar was hit by a bullet fired by naxalite and he collapsed there. However, PSI Dattatray Kale continued advancing amidst firing by Naxals and ensured that the damage to his party is minimized. At that time NPC/2718 Gomji Mattami bravely supported PSI Dattatray Kale by giving cover fire and moved ahead tactically towards the hills where the naxals were positioned.

During this firing, NPC/2438 Yakub Pathan, immediately took a section of men and began to proceed towards the naxalites from one side and braving the bullets fired by naxalites, continued to advance at the direction of enemy by puttingPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 997 his own life in peril and simultaneously without, caring for his own life so that his fellow-men and officers are not encircled and massacred. Initiative taken by the above police personnel motivated the fellow party men and they also began to fire aggressively from different angles and positions. This aggression created panic among the naxalite and they began to flee towards the far side taking cover of dense forest and hilly terrain. The exchange of gun fire continued for about 30 to 35 minutes.

Thus, the extra-ordinary courage and dedication towards their duties, as displayed by the above police personnel have set an example to other police personnel working in the highly naxal infested district.

In this encounter, S/Shri Dattatray Bhimrao Kale, Sub Inspector, Late Doge Dolu Atram, Naik and Late Swarup Ashok Amrutkar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 22/03/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 142-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Maharashtra Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. M. Rajkumar, IPS

Addl. Superintendent of Police

02. Parfull Prabhakar Kadam

Sub Inspector

03. Vijay Rameshrao Ratnaparkhi

Sub Inspector

04. Pramod Rangnath Bhingare

Sub Inspector

05. Motiram Bakka Madavi

Head Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 13/06/2014, under the leadership of the Addl. SP M. Rajkumar police team was formed. It comprised API Parfull Kadam, API Vijay Ratnaparkhi, PSI Pramod Bhingare, party commander ASI/1331 Motiram Madavi and 23 men, party commander Prabhudas Dugga and 24 men. They reached the forest of Zuri and then discarded the vehicles. Thereafter, the team chalked strategy and proceeded on foot into the forest of Mandoli, Mendhari, Paidi and Gadpalli and began conduction anti-naxal operation.

On 14/06/2014 in the morning at around 0900 hrs. the police party was combing through the forest of Mandoli and Paidi, 30 to 40 armed naxalites clothed in olive green uniforms suddenly opened indiscriminate fire upon the police party with an intention of killing police party and to snatch their fire arms. At the instruction of Shri. M. Rajkumar, Addl. S. P. (Ops.), the police party shielded themselves behind trees and rocks near by taking position. Accordingly police parties also retaliated in self defense, Shri. Rajkumar along with API Parfull Kadam cautiously moved towards the naxalites and at the same time opened fire at the direction of naxalites, through their relentless efforts and courageous co-ordination of the counter moves boosted the morale of the police parties. While API Ratnaparkhi, PSI Bhingare, party commander ASI/1331 Motiram Madavi along with his men advanced from eastern side. These men kept advancing despite heavy firing by the naxalites and risked their lives.

In the meanwhile, a section of naxalites attacked API Ratnaparkhi, PSI Bhingare, ASI Motiram Madavi by opening a volley of bullets. Realizing that above personnel were trapped in an ambush, Shri. Rajkumar, Addl. S. P. rapidly advanced to their help without caring his life and bombarded the naxalites with bullets. At this point, API Parfull Kadam joined Shri. M. Rajkumar and combined they engaged the naxals in a fierce gun battle. In the meanwhile Motiram Madavi also sustained bullet injury. The naxalites were addressing their accomplices loudly by names and asking one another to surround the policemen. There was no let up in naxal firing.

Despite sustaining injury, party commander AS1 Motiram Madavi also made advances in the direction of Naxalites and encountered the naxalite attack with full zeal and dedication. Through the firing, Shri. Rajkumar, personally took active998 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 role in the battle against Naxalites and ensured that nobody in the party is left vulnerable to attack. After the firing stopped, the police party conducted a search of the area and recovered the following :—

1) 9mm Pistol (Service)-1, 2) Hand made Pistol-1, 3) 9mm rounds-7, 4) .303 rifle Cartridges-1, 5)Claymore Mines Pipe-3, 6) Mine (Steel Kettle) 1, 7) Gelatines, 8) Detonators-6, and 9) Naxal Dangri. In addition to these, they recovered one dead body of Naxalite clothed in olive green uniform.

The Mandoli encounter was the result of an anti-naxal operation launched on the basis of reliable information and it was proceeded by chalking of strategy. The police party shown very extraordinary courage and highest degree of professionalism in the discharge of their duty. Apart from this, throughout the operation they exhibited their tactical skills and ensured minimum causality on the party of police force.

In this encounter, S/Shri M. Rajkumar, IPS, Addl. Superintendent of Police, Parfull Prabhakar Kadam, Sub Inspector, Vijay Rameshrao Ratnaparkhi, Sub Inspector, Pramod Rangnath Bhingare, Sub Inspector and Motiram Bakka Madavi, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 14/06/2014.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 143-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Meghalaya Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Deven Mawlein Inspector

02. Jose Sumer

Constable

03. Grohon K Marak Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

Based on reliable source information about the presence of heavily armed militants belonging to banned outfit Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) numbering about 10(ten) to 12(twelve) at Rongthok village, an operation plan was drawn by Shri B D. Marak, MPS, Deputy Commandant, 4th MLP Bn, camped Shallang, West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya to launch a search operation by the SWAT of Meghalaya police to apprehend the militants. The search team comprising of Inspector Deven Mawlein, Circle Inspector, Nongstoin along with BNC/562. Jose Sumer and BNC/2712. Grohon K Marak was sent to the outskirts of the Rongthok village at about 01.00 hrs on 2nd March, 2016.

To avoid detection by the villagers, the search team negotiated the undulating and unfriendly terrain in the pitch of darkness and on reaching Rongthok village, they hid themselves in the forested area before reaching the suspected place. The team led by Inspector Deven Mawlein, along with BNC Jose Sumer and BNC. Grohon K Marak proceeded towards the target area at around 0700 hrs where GNLA cadres were taking shelter. It is to be noted that the team leader has delayed the search operation unto day light because it is the traditional method to hit the militants every time during first light. However it is learnt from the previous operations that they are extremely alert and vigilant at that time. Due to the above stated reasons, Inspector Deven Mawlein, BNC Jose Sumer and BNC Grohon K. Marak purposely delayed the search operation. When the suspected area was approximately about 200 metres, the police team split into buddy pairs and advanced. The search team had to move very carefully and tactically. As Inspector Deven Mawlein, BNC Jose Sumer and BNC Grohon K Marak moved forward, about 7 to 8 heavily armed GNLA cadres who were at a dominating distance of about 30 metres, opened indiscriminate fire upon the approaching police team from their sophisticated weapons and forced the approaching team to take cover.

Inspector Deven Mawlein, BNC Jose Sumer and BNC Grohon K. Marak retaliated by counter firing in self defense and exhibited extraordinary courage and determination by not only advancing forward towards the hints who were continuously firing at the police team but also by risking their lives. Simultaneously they also had to take care many children and women who were present.

Inspector Deven Mawlein, BNC Jose Sumer and BNC Grohon K Marak continued to fire with grit and determination at the continuously firing militants, exhibiting conspicuous courage and forced the militants to run for their lives. While on the run, the militant got scattered into two directions. The police team also split into two teams and made a hot pursuit of the fleeing militants. In the process, the Police Team again came under heavy firing from those fleeing militants who had positioned themselves on a hill top. Even in such a situation, they showed grit and determination and advanced by opening counter fire. The firing lasted for about 30(thirty) minutes which resulted in the death of one militant. However, other GNLA cadres managed to escape and recovered the following items from the slain GNLA cadre :—

1(one) AK 56 series rifle

2(two) AK magazines

12(twelve) live AK ammunition

11 (eleven) empty cases of AK rifle

1(one)7.65 pistol

1 (one) 7.65 magazine

2 (two) live 7.65 ammunition

1(one) hand held set

1(one) mobile handset

The unwavering determination, extraordinary courage, grit, devotion to their duties of the high order displayed by the three of them even in the verge of gravest danger and life threatening situation endangering their very lives is commendable.

In this encounter, S/Shri Deven Mawlein, Inspector, Jose Sumer, Constable and Grohon K Marak, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 02/03/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 144-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Meghalaya Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Victor Nengminza Sangma

Dy. Superintendent of Police

02. Nikcheng Senga Ch. Momin Dy. Superintendent of Police

03. Jester A Sangma Constable

04. Macdonald Thongni

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 13th April, 2016, on receipt of reliable information, the operation was made under the leadership of Dy.SP(P) Victor N Sangma and Dy.SP(P) Shri Nikcheng Senga Ch Momin proceeded to Chichra area from Williamnagar and inducted at Rongjeng Reserve Forest. The whole team was divided into three sub teams. As they waited in ambush for an hour, one suspicious looking person in civil dress appeared as the suspected person came very near to the ambush site they caught him and questioned him, he revealed that around 10 - 12 militants with AK rifles came to his house at night on 12th April 2016, beat him up and threatened his wife and later gave him a mobile phone with SIM card forcefully at gun point to inform them about police movement. On further questioning and inspection, the inspect person identified himself as Shri Walsrang N Arengh. At that moment, an SMS on his mobile phone was received asking about the presence of police in the area. On further questioning, the Operation team decided to continue to pursue their task. Using this opportunity, Dy.SP(P) Nikcheng1000 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 Senga Ch Momin initiated and gave a reply to the SMS from the same mobile of the apprehended person by saying, 'Didn't see any police. Then, the police team told to make a mobile call to the militants and inform them that he did not see any police and they could come to the village safely. After 15 minutes two cadres with one AK rifle came out from the jungle and went to the targeted house. After a while, another three cadres having two AKs arrived at the scene. However, absence of Shri Walsrang N Arengh in the targeted house made them suspicious as they could not find him. So they must have alerted the remaining group and were returning back to their hideout. As the retreating groups of militants were going back again, team led by Shri Victor N Sangma Dy. SP(P) tried to apprehend them and moved forward towards the militants, but the militant on seeing the police team, opened fired upon them heavily with their sophisticated weapons. Even though the team was under heavy fire from the enemy, they retaliated effectively against the enemy in the exchange of fire which lasted for about 15 minutes. After a heavy exchange of fire the militants started to retreat to the valley taking the advantage of thick jungle. The militants kept on firing and the police teams retaliated the fire. Both Dy. SP(P) Victor N Sangma and Dy. SP(P) Nikcheng Senga Ch Momin along with BNC Macdonald Thongni and BNC Jester A Sangma gallantly charged towards the firing militants and fired heavily upon them to give cover for both the officers i.e. Victor and Nikcheng which thwarted the attack of the militants. Thus the police team fought gallantly against the militants and militants finally disappeared from the scene taking advantage of thick forest. During thorough search, one dead militant with arms and ammunitions were recovered. Later identified the dead body as that of Augustine Marak, Commander-In-Chief of LAEF.

Recovery:

1. AK-47 : 01 No.

2. AK Magazine : 01 No.

3. AK Ammunition : 72 Rounds

4. Mobile phone : 03 Nos.

5. SIM cards : 10 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Victor Nengminza Sangma, Dy. Superintendent of Police, Nikcheng Senga Ch. Momin, Dy. Superintendent of Police, Jester A Sangma, Constable and Macdonald Thongni, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 13/04/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 145-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Odisha Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Bhabani Pradhan Havildar

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

Based on specific intelligence input, a joint operation namely 'SARGRAM' was conducted in the area of Asurkhol Pahar and adjoining area under PS Chandiposh and Gurundia w.e.f. 2300 hrs on 10.11.15, by four parties of Rourkela Police, F/19 Bn CRPF, DVF and SOG. During the operation on 11.11.15 at about 0930 hrs, exchange of fire took place between SOG Crack Team and Maoists in the area of Asurkhol Pahar near Kuljhar Nala under PS Chandiposh in which one dead body of Maoist along with huge cache of arms/ammunition and other articles were recovered.

After exchange of fire, further information was received from reliable sources that one splinter Maoist group numbering around 03-04 have moved to Gahami and adjoining area under PS Chandiposh. Based on intelligence input, another operation 'SARGRAM-2' Combing & Search w.e.f. 2000 hrs, 11.11.15 for 24 hrs was planned by the SP Rourkela and Commandant 19 Bn CRPF, Rourkela and a party of B/19 along with ASI, PS Chandiposh and Hav/604 Bhabani Pradhan, DVF u/c Sh Rakesh Sharma, Asstt Comdt was detailed/briefed for operation in the jungle area of Gahami which is situated Western side of Brahmani River U/PS Chandiposh. The operation party left Chandiposh Camp at 2000 hrs and after tactically carrying out the dropping drill the party moved further towards the Brahmani River area on foot with the help of GPS and crossed Brahmani River by 2130 hrs. After crossing the river, party reached at Point No. 05. Based on the latest intelligence input, the route of ops party was diverted towards North-West direction from Point No-5, which was communicated to the Party Commander Shri Rakesh Sharma, AC. Accordingly, the ops party guided by Hav Bhabani Pradhan, moved towardsPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1001 North-West direction from Point No-5. During Combing and Search in jungle area nearby village Gahami, the guide Hav Bhabani Pradhan, DVF and scouts CT/GD Gangandeep Singh and CT/GD Vishal Patel detected a group of Maoists in dark with arms coming towards the river ghat amidst jungle. The entire ops party was made alert. At this Shri Rakesh Sharma, AC assessed the situation and formed three parties within the team. Party 1 was Left cut-off, Party 2 was Right Cut-off and 3rd Party was Assault Party consisting of Shri Rakesh Sharma, AC, CT/GD Gangandeep Singh, CT/GD Vishal Patel and Hav Bhabani Pradhan, DVF. Team leader immediately signaled the parties to take respective position and wait for the Maoists to come within identifiable distance. At this, the first member of the Maoists coming from the front suddenly shouted "Police" and opened indiscriminate fire on the ops party. The whole Maoist group probably 08-10, started indiscriminate fire by lethal/sophisticated weapons with intention to kill the Police Force. The party commander and the local guide Hav Bhabani Pradhan insisted the Maoists to stop firing and surrender, but the Maoists did not stop and they continued to fire towards police party. Assessing the imminent danger to the life and property of own party members and local villagers, and in the right to self defense, the ops party retaliated with controlled fire in which AC and two scouts of the CRPF ops party opened restrained fire and Hav Bhabani Pradhan moved ahead by crawling after signaling the own party members not to fire towards his direction and watch for the activities of enemies from right and left direction to avoid probability of cross firing. In spite of heavy fire by enemies and without caring for their own lives, Shri Rakesh Sharma, AC, CT/GD Gagandeep Singh, CT/GD Vishal Patel and DVF Hav Bhabani Pradhan crawled ahead to take on the enemies from the front while rest of the ops party members were in position to give cover fire, as a result of which Maoists could not hold the ground and started retreating towards the jungle. The firing from the Maoists side was intensive, probably by automatic weapons. Such act of the Maoists was with intention to strike terror in the mind of the Police Force as well as of the general public of the locality. The exchange of fire continued for about 10 to 15 minutes and when firing stopped from both sides Shri Rakesh Sharma, AC signaled ops party to tactically search the area using cover and move tactics. The Police Team guided by Hav Bhabani Pradhan conducted Search in the area and could find one Maoist in Uniform lying dead with profuse bleeding, 02 nos. of .303 rifles (Mark-IV), 02 nos. of .303 rifle Magazines, 113 nos. ammunitions of .303 rifle, 11 nos. Air gun ammunitions, 03 nos. of .303 charger clip, 01 no of Motorola man pack set, Maoists literature and other miscellaneous items etc. at the spot and also blood stains in the Operation area. Because of gallant retaliation from police, the Maoist group escaped under the cover of thick forest. The successful yet risky operation resulted in the neutralization of one hardcore cadre of Saranda Sub Zonal Committee of CPI (Maoist) namely, Sangram Bari (Section Commander), the police party searched the nearby area to find out the injured if any but no injured was found.

Gallant Action by Hav Bhabani Pradhan:

DVF Hav Bhabani Pradhan being the local guide and well acquainted with the terrain who guided the whole team towards the direction of the Maoists to take on the enemies from the front, volunteered to be the part Assault Team. His position in the Assault team was in the extreme left and played a vital role in the success of operation. It was he, who was familiar with the local terrain and guided the entire ops team during the course of operation. He was the one who could notice the movement of the Maoists first and intimated the same to the team leader Shri Rakesh Sharma. During the course of the exchange of fire with Maoists, he risked his life as he was in the extreme left position and was closest to the enemy as the position of the enemy was towards left and there were chances that Maoist might corner him and fire on him from that side. It was due to his alertness and quick response that the lives of other team members were saved as he was navigating in the hilly terrain in pursuance of their goal. DVF Hav Bhabani Pradhan was in extreme left position of the assault group and marched according to the demand of the situation. He advanced further to observe detailed positions of Maoists and their firing direction. As he was nearer to the Maoists, he had more risk from both sides i.e. Maoists and police party. Since, he was pivot of the operation party and was constantly coordinating with the team leader. But his coordination as well as bravery was remarkable at the time of hardship. Due to his valor act not only one dreaded Maoist was eliminated but others also suffered serious injuries as informed by villagers later.

In this encounter, Shri Bhabani Pradhan, Havildar displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 11/11/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 146-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Odisha Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Kiran Kumar

Dy. Subedar1002 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 02. Manoranjan Nayak

Constable

03. Uday Sankar Patra

Constable

04. Dhaneswar Muduli

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 10/11/2015, a reliable input regarding the movement of around 30 armed CPI (Maoist) in the area of Asurkhol and adjoining border jungle/village area under PS Chandiposh & Gurundia, Dist- Sundargarh under the leadership of Anmol was received. As per input, the Maoist had plan to kill some of the civilians in the name of police informer to create terror in the mind of the local villagers and bring the locals to their fold. To counter the same, three units consisting of DVF (District Voluntary Force), SOG (Special Operation Group) & CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) were deployed to conduct combing and search operation. Sri Kiran Kumar, SI (Arms) and his Crack Team was also deputed for Combing Operation duty. While performing Combing Operation on Jaljala Pahad of Asurkhol Forest, the scout of the Team detected a suspicious movement of some group. The team took position and observed that it was the Maoists group as some of them were in Olive Green uniform and holding Arms. The police party observed further to be doubly sure about the identity of the suspicious group for some times to be sure that it was a Maoist group. By that time, the Maoist noticed the presence of police party. Seeing the police party, the Maoists started firing from their automatic weapon with intention to kill the police party. After taking all precautionary measures, the party commander and members shouted to stop firing and surrender but Maoist didn't listen and continued firing towards police party indiscriminately. The firing was so heavy that the police had to take cover to protect themselves. The Maoist kept on firing for more than half an hour. The risk to life of police personnel was very high. Entire team was under the killing zone of the Maoist. At this point of time, the team leader decided to do something to protect the lives of the police personnel. Team was divided into three parts. One team consisting of SI (A) Kiran Kumar along with CT Dhaneswar Muduli, CT Manoranjan Nayak and CT Udaya Kumar Patra formed the Assault team. Rest two team formed the Cut Off teams to give the cover fire to the Asasult team when they advance to attack the Maoist camp in order to save the lives of police personnel. One of the Cut off teams was assigned the task to cover the left flank and other cut off team was assigned the task to cover the right flank. The Assault Team was in the center. During continued firing by the Maoist, the two cut off teams, crawled and took position to the left and right of the Maoist camp. Once the team took the position, the Assault Team was to come out of cover to save the lives of the police team. After taking of the position by two Cut off teams, the Assault Team came out of the cover and attacked the Maoist camp without caring about their own lives and to protect the lives of their colleague police personnel. These four brave hearts showed gallant act of highest order without caring about their own lives to protect the lives and property of police as well as civilian. It is one of the rarest acts of gallant in the history of Rourkela Police. After about half an hour of the gun battle, the Maoists stopped firing and managed to escape into the deep forest. After the firing, the Police Team conducted search in the area and could find one Maoist in uniform lying dead with injuries on his head and leg with profuse bleeding, 2 nos. of .303 rifle, 2 magazines of .303 rifle and one magazine of SLR, 3 nos of hand grenades, kit bags, uniform of the Maoist, Maoist literature etc. at the spot and also bloodstains in the operation area. Because of gallant retaliation from police, the Maoist group escaped under the cover of thick foliage. The successful yet risky operation resulted in the neutralization of one Saranda Sub Zonal Committee Commander of CPI (Maoist) namely, Madhusudan Tarkot on whom the government of Odisha had declared award of Rs one-lakh. Further, the police party searched in the nearby area to find out the injured if any but no injured was found.

During the operation, police personnel have displayed bravery, courage, determination and devotion to duty of highest order to overcome extreme adversities in the extremely difficult terrain against a positional better placed adversary and ensured success without any collateral damage to the lives of civilians and police personnel.

In this encounter, S/Shri Kiran Kumar, Dy. Subedar, Manoranjan Nayak, Constable, Uday Sankar Patra, Constable and Dhaneswar Muduli, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 11/11/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 147-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Odisha Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Premananda Pradhan

ConstablePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1003 02. Mahadev Gahir Constable

03. Hemanta Pradhan Constable

04. Tunu Sahoo

Sergeant

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 30.04.2016, a reliable information was received regarding activities of armed cadres of CPI (Maoist) in the Sahajkhol Reserve Forest Area under Koksara PS limits that they, apart from motivating local youths to join the banned CPI (Maoist organisation ) were also planning to indulge in various violent activities like killing of civilians, destruction of Govt. property etc. Accordingly, SOG team No 5 under leadership of Sergeant Tunu Sahoo was sent for an anti-maoist operation to apprehend the members of the banned organisation. When the SOG team reached the forest area, the maoists resorted to sudden unprovoked firing from automatic weapons and mounted a flanking attack, making the police team vulnerable to heavy fire from two directions causing injuries to five SOG commandos. Unwavered by the firing, the SOG team under the leadership of Sergeant Tunu Sahoo retaliated valiantly despite numerical disadvantage and severe terrain limitations with total disregard to personal safety, Sergeant Tunu Sahoo along with commandos Sri Premananda Pradhan. Sri Mahadev Gahir and Sri Hemanta Pradhan charged the enemy in a very risky frontal attack braving heavy fire and forced the maoists to retreat. Another small team consisting of six commandos countered by a flanking attack from the right side and fearlessly took on the maoists. The team leader Sergeant Tunu Sahoo and other commandos rose to the occasion against over whelming odds and put on an inspiring fight against a numerically superior and tactically better placed enemy. Their acts led to the death of 3 lady maoist cadres belonging to 1st company of 1st Battalion of CPI Maoists and recovery of two .303" Rifles, one 12 bore gun, one 9mm pistol, two tiffin bombs, large numbers of ammunition and other camp items.

The brave and valiant acts of the team leader and other commandos wrecked havoc in the enemy lines, neutralized three maoist cadres and also thwarted the evil designs of the Maoists and prevented a major violent incident.

In this encounter, S/Shri Premananda Pradhan, Constable, Mahadev Gahir, Constable, Hemanta Pradhan, Constable and Tunu Sahoo, Sergeant displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 30/04/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 148-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Odisha Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Bikash Patra

Sub Inspector

02. Raj Kishore Pradhan

Constable

03. Hrushikesh Jal Constable

04. Ram Chandra Hembram

Constable

05. Samanta Majhi Constable

06. Suresh Chandra Hembram

(Posthumously)

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 23.01.2016, on intelligence input of presence of camp of Kalinganagar Division of banned CPI (Maoists) at hill top near Ganeswarpur village on the Angul-Deogarh border forest area having definite plans of violent activities like killing1004 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 innocent civilians to spread terror, an anti-naxal operation was launched by the team of SOG and SIW under the leadership of Bikash Patra, SI to apprehend the banned Maoist cadres accompanied by local police representative of Pallahara PS. After a thorough combing operation in dense hilly forest, next day (24.01.2016) afternoon, the operational team located Maoist camp at dense hilly forest around 5-6 kms away from village Ganeswarpur. The operational team attempted to cordon off the camp tactically to apprehend them. The direction of the police team to them to surrender in clear and loud voice was to no avail. Rather the Maoist started sudden and indiscriminate fire from automatic weapons in which three members of the operational team sustained injuries. Given the treacherous lay out of the terrain and desperation of the armed extremists, the operation was fraught with risk and danger. But the above police personnel despite bodily injury and numerical disadvantage, tactically moved forward close to Maoist group unwavered to their firing putting their lives at risk and retaliated the Maoist fearlessly in a very risky frontal attack forcing them to escape. The exchange of fire continued for about 25 minutes. Because of their gallant action, two dreaded Maoist cadres identified as Sushil @ Sunil @ P.Kumar Swamy (Secretary, Kalinganagar Division and State Committee Member) and Sony @ Sindri Lingo (Divisional Committee Member) were neutralised with recovery of one 5.56 INSAS, one 9mm Carbine, 18 rounds live ammunition, 37 empty cartridges, mobile, laptop, Maoist literature and other camp articles etc. Both dreaded deceased Maoist leaders carried rewards of Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 5 lakhs respectively as declared by Govt. of Odisha. They were involved in many heinous crimes and disruptive activities in four districts during last one decade.

Being a harm's way, the above police personnel displayed exemplary courage, indomitable spirit & determination and extraordinary commitment to their duty. By their remarkable gallant action, they not only neutralised two dreaded armed Maoist cadres of the State with busting of camp but also foiled the pernicious design of the CPI (Maoist) to spread tentacles of terror.

In this encounter, S/Shri Bikash Patra, Sub Inspector, Raj Kishore Pradhan, Constable, Hrushikesh Jal, Constable, Ram Chandra Hembram, Constable, Samanta Majhi, Constable and Late Suresh Chandra Hembram, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 24/01/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 149-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Odisha Police :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Santanu Kumar Pradhani

Sergeant

02. Amit Kumar Biswal

Havildar

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 11.02.1016, an anti-maoist search operation was launched by S.P, Kalahandi based on a reliable information that a group of armed Maoists are camping near Kanamanjur Reserve Forest under Sadar PS Bhawanipatna near village Gachhkhola and criminally conspiring to create terror in the locality by killing civilians and by indulging in disruptions activities like attack on vital installations govt. buildings, etc in the area as a part of their war against the State. The team comprised of Sgt, Santanu Kumar Pradhani & 03 commandos of DVF, Kalahandi with SI, (A) Parameswar Hansda & 16 commandos of SOG.

While the said team was conducting search operation in the forest area near Kanamanjur forest under Sadar PS Bhawanipatna near village Gachhkhola on 11.02.2016, a group of armed Maoists came across and suddenly opened unprovoked and indiscriminate fire from sophisticated weapons at the police team with intention to kill them.

After eight police personnel sustained splinter injuries due to throwing of grenades, Sgct. Santanu Kumar Pradhani and others retaliated by counter attack. Sgct. Santanu Kumar Pradhani, alongwith others moved forward risking their lives and launched a massive flanking attack disregarding their personal safety despite the numerical disadvantage and severe terrain limitations forcing the maoists to retreat. The exchange of fire continued for half an hour.

In this operation a female maoist named Mitiki of 1st Company of 1st Battalion of banned CPI(Maoist) organization was neutralized and one MK-Ill .303" rifle with Magazine, 04 nos. of .303 rifle ammunition, 2 nos of Detonators, 13 nos. ofPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1005 haver sacks, Maoist literature, wire, electronic and household articles etc. were recovered. The maoists of 1st Battalion of CPI (Maoist) organisation are considered to be very ferocious and have killed large numbers of police personnel in the past. The members of Police team under Sgct. Santanu Kumar Pradhani as cited above successfully neutralized an audacious attack by the most ferocious maoist group which also prevented causalities from police side and also helped in preventing the violent act, the execution for which they had assembled.

In this encounter, S/Shri Santanu Kumar Pradhani, Sergeant and Amit Kumar Biswal, Havildar displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 11/02/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 150-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Border Security Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Gurnam Singh (Posthumously)

Constable

02. Bhupinder Singh

Inspector

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 19 Oct'2016 at about 2345 hrs, while No. 050011977 lnsp Bhupinder Singh, Post Comdr of BOP Bobiya Fwd (ex 173 Bn) was carrying out Vehicle patrolling in a BP Gypsy along the Border track, one RPG round followed with several long bursts of Automatic weapons fired by militants towards his Vehicle and Naka Mounds from a distance approx. 100 Mtrs from the IB inside Pak territory corresponding to BP No 96. Fortunately, the RPG round missed the target and exploded on the Border track. Meanwhile No. 110411381 Const Gurnam Singh who was deployed at Naka Mound No. 02, spotted the militants firing heavily from Pakistan side and without caring for his personal safety in face of direct & heavy militant firing, immediately resorted to heavy volume of aimed & accurate LMG fire on them. As a result, the militants were effectively pinned down. However, after some time another round of RPG fired by militants on the BP vehicle cover, but again it missed the intended target and exploded at approx 100 Mtrs behind Mound No 02. Const Gurnam Singh deployed at the same mound, displayed immense combat sense to retaliate the situation and resorted to heavy volume of accurate fire on the militants. Resultantly, two militants got grievously wounded and one of them forced to take shelter and started heavy volume of fire on Naka mounds as well as on the BP vehicle in which Inspr Bhupinder Singh was present with the apparent intention of targeting the Commander. In order to lead his troops effectively and handle the fierce situation, Inspr Bhupinder Singh without caring of his personal safety & life, tactically made his way to mound No. 02 braving heavy barrage of bullets. After taking stock of overall situation including identification of the spot from where the militants were engaging the adjoining Naka Mounds, he took control of the over all situation and directed troops deployed on the mounds to bring down heavy volume of fire in a coordinated manner on the militants' position. Accordingly, precise & effective coordinated fire was brought down by all the Naka Mounds on the militants, as a result the militants' ill design of infiltration has been foiled and ultimately they managed to flee away towards Pak side in order to save their lives.

Later, it was confirmed from the HHTI recording and illumination of area by firing 51 mm Illu bomb, the body of one of the dead/injured militant dragged away towards Pak side. The entire operation lasted for around 16 minutes, caused serious injuries to the militants forcing them to flee back.

During the attempt by the militants for forced infiltration inside Indian territory, Ct Gurnam Singh displayed conspicuous bravery under heavy militant firing and resorted to precise & effective fire on infiltrating militants, as a result militants were injured/killed and the remaining were forced to retreat back. However, Ct Gurnam Singh, who sustained bullet injuries on his right temple in the encounters and admitted in GMC Jammu, for treatment, unfortunately, succumbed to the injuries on 22/10/2016 at about 2315 hrs and attained martyrdom.

During the aforesaid operation, lnsp Bhupinder Singh, Post Comdr BOP Bobiya Fwd also played a pivotal role in the whole operation in directing fire efforts under heavy odds. Without caring for his personal safety in the face of heavy militant firing, he led from the front and with the sheer presence of mind, coordinated the whole Ops effectively, which resulted in killing/injury of 01 militant and foiling of a major forced infiltration bid.

In this encounter, S/Shri Late Gurnam Singh, Constable and Bhupinder Singh, Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 19/10/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 151-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry/1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Border Security Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Ashok Kumar

(PMG)

Assistant Commandant

02. Satish Chand

(PMG)

Constable

03. Tapan Kumar Raj

(PMG)

Head Constable

04. R. Siddaiah

(1st Bar to PMG, Posthumously) Assistant Sub Inspector

05. Ravichandran M

(PMG Posthumously)

Head Constable

06. G.S. Abilash

(PMG Posthumously)

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

Based on an information provided by the Police, Malkangiri regarding Naxal presence in area Sarkibandha, about 6 Kms South-East of COB Janbai; an operation, after detailed planning by Commandant 104 Bn BSF, was launched by a BSF Ops party led by Shri Ashok Kumar, Assistant Commandant, alongwith Shri Rajesh T K Lakra, Assistant Commandant/Company Comdr, COB Badapada, 11 SOs, 63 ORs, 04 BSF Water Wing pers and 01 OSAP rep (total - 81).

Shri Ashok Kumar, AC, himself led the operation in the first boat with 12 pers. The Ops party of first boat, as planned, reached Palangraighat at about 0630 hrs on 26 Aug 2015 for further move to target area. Immediately on reaching at the Ghat; and while disembarking and anchoring the Boat to secure the Ghat; the Naxals hiding at an advantageously located higher position on adjacent hillock, detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and started indiscriminate firing on the BSF Ops party from multiple directions. BSF troops under the direction of Shri Ashok Kumar, Asstt. Comdt, immediately retaliated the fire and fought without losing their nerves and successfully countered the ambush of Naxals. In the mean time, the Naxals also initiated three more IEDs in conjunction with indiscriminate fire due to which nine members of BSF Ops party sustained bullet and splinter injuries.

Despite having sustained grievous bullet and splinter injuries caused by the IED blast and indiscriminate firing by Naxals; the party under the command of IRLA No. 11216360 Shri. Ashok Kumar, Assistant Commandant, displayed indomitable courage and fought valiantly alongwith comrades and counter-ambushed the Naxals without caring for their safety due to which the Naxals who were in a most advantageous position and also outnumbered BSF troops many times could not succeed in their design and were beaten back. The second party which was tailing the first boat also provided cover fire and pinned down the Naxals. Due to the determined gallant fight put up by BSF troops, the Naxals could not initiate remaining four IEDs planted by them, fled with their dead and walking wounded and also failed to loot the weapons which were their main intention.

In the valiant action, unfortunately three brave soldiers of 104 Bn BSF attained martyrdom and six soldiers sustained grievous injuries in the line of duty.

The role played by members of the party:

(i) Critically injured but undeterred Sh Ashok Kumar, AC, instantly analysed the situation and sensed type and directions of maoist firing, acted as live wire, led from the front and motivated men who followed to neutralize and defeat the maoists.

(ii) No. 901110015 Head Constable (ED) Tapan Kumar Raj unmindful of his injuries, guided the boat to safety and displaying great courage and presence of mind valiantly fought with Maoists till they fled .

(iii) No. 092543962 Constable Satish Chand unmindful of grievous injury to his person due to IED blast/naxal fire, retaliated effectively at Maoists injuring and preventing them from triggering more IEDs.

(iv) No. 870091250 late ASI(G) R Siddaiah, despite the grievous bullet and splinter injuries to him, kept firing on the Maoists. His aggressive and courageous act foiled the nefarious designs of Maoists and made the ultras flee and ultimately made supreme sacrifice. (v)A grievously injured and undeterred No. 930096229 Late Head Constable (GD) Ravichandran M kept on firing from personal weapon towards Maoists aggressively which foiled the nefarious acts of Maoists and made the ultras to flee. He exposed himself to intense fire of Maoists and displayed great courage and valiantly fought with the Maoists and ultimately made supreme sacrifice.

(vi) No. 112050032 Late Constable (Crew) G S Abilash, unmindful of grievous injury sustained, engaged the Maoists and stopped them from triggering more IEDs. He exposed himself to intense fire of Maoists and displayed great courage and valiantly fought till the ultras fled and ultimately made supreme sacrifice.

Recovery:

1. IEDs : 04 Nos. ( 03 kg each)

2. Umbrellas : 04 Nos.

3. 7.62 mm SLF EFCs : 08 No.s

4. 7.62 mm SLR : 02 No. live round

5. AK-47 EFCs : 42 Nos.

6. AK 47 Amn : 01 round (misfire)

7 Flexible wire : 75 mtrs.

In this encounter, S/Shri Ashok Kumar, Assistant Commandant, Satish Chand, Constable, Tapan Kumar Raj, Head Constable, Late R. Siddaiah, Assistant Sub Inspector, Late Ravichandran M, Head Constable and Late G.S. Abilash, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal/1st Bar to Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 26/08/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 152-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Border Security Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Jitender Kumar Singh (Posthumously

Head Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On the night intervening of 26/27th Oct'2016 at about 0120 hrs, Pak Posts Jamshed, Labaik, Banout Tekri & chaprar Fwd in Chaprar Sector suddenly started unprovoked heavy volume of firing with Automatic weapons and shelling by Medium/Heavy Mortars in AOR of BOPS, Abdulian & Tubewell - 5 of 127 Bn BSF, mainly targeting the forward duty points (Naka Mounds), BOPS and also the adjoining civilian areas. No. 910061650 Head Constable Jitender Kumar Singh of 'D' Coy, 127 Bn BSF who was deployed at one of the forward duty points i.e. Naka Mound No. 02 of BOP Tubewell-5 along with his fellowmen, took stock of the overall situation and directed his fellowmen to take position and start firing on the Pak forward Morchs/Bunkers to give befitting reply. Further, HC Jitender Kumar Singh, himself, took position on the Anti- Material Rifle (AMR) deployed at the said duty point and promptly retaliated in an effective manner, targeting the forward Morchas/Bunkers of Pak Post Jamshed which were firing relentlessly at all the forward duty points. Being positioned at a closely located forward most duty point; the main brunt of the intense enemy fire was being faced by the troops deployed at Naka mound 2. However, with scant regard to his personal safety under intense enemy fire, Head Constable Jitender Kumar Singh effectively pinned down the forward Morchas/Bunkers of Pak Post Jamshed and injured the Pak Rangers/Army personnel deployed at those forward HMG Morchas. Consequent upon the accurate firing by HC Jitender Kumar Singh, the fire from Pak forward Morchas/Bunkers stopped for some time. However, during the early morning hours, Pakistan once again resorted to heavy volume of fire on BSF positions. Meanwhile, the forward Morchas/Bunkers of Pak post Jamshed started specifically targeting Mound No. 02 at which HC Jitender Kumar Singh was deployed with the AMR. Undeterred by1008 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 the intensity of Pak firing, HC Jitender Kumar Singh once again motivated his fellowmen to retaliate effectively and himself started firing from the AMR. However, in the renewed firing from Pak side which was much more fierce in intensity, Head Constable Jitender Kumar Singh sustained grievous bullet injury in his upper stomach region. Despite being fatally wounded & profuse bleeding, Head Constable Jitender Kumar Singh kept giving befitting reply to the enemy continuously without asking for immediate evacuation. However, immediate casualty evacuation party was sent from the post in BP Bunker Vehicle and the grievously wounded brave HC Jitender Kumar Singh was promptly evacuated to the nearby MI Room of 192 Bn BSF, where he was provided with the first aid and was further evacuated to 166 MH Satwari. Enroute to the Army Hospital Satwari, HC Jitender Kumar Singh succumbed to the injuries and attained Martyrdom on the same day at about 0940 hrs. Later on, as confirmed through int sources, Pak side had suffered heavy injury/losses of men and material including killing of two Pak Soldiers in the Chaprar sector.

In this action Late Shri Jitender Kumar Singh, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 27/10/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 153-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Border Security Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Nishi Kant

Assistant Commandant

02. Khade Nand Kishore Madhukarrao

Constable

03. Shahnawaz Wali Bhat

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

140 BN, BSF is deployed in one of the most hyper sensitive Naxal affected areas of Chhattisgarh, major portion of area of operation of the unit is extremely difficult due to its geographical characteristics and conducting operations in this area is extremely challenging in itself "A hard nut to crack". The general surrounding area of Village- Keshokori (POO) is one of the above area which is extremely notorious for presence of Maoists due to its geographical design.

On 2nd Feb' 2016, a joint ops by Commando Platoon of 140 Bn BSF and CGP/STF was launched after detailed analysis of available input under direct command of Shri Nishi Kant, AC in the area of Keshkori wherein SOs-04, ORs-31 of Unit Commando Platoon and STF/CGP left for target area at about 1330 hrs tactically maneuvering the terrain and maintaining surprise.

On reaching close to the village Keshokori, Shri Nishi Kant, AC anticipated ground situation and divided Ops party in two groups i.e BSF Commando Platoon and CGP/STF to cordon off the village from right and left flank respectively. While cordoning off the Village, Shri Nishi Kant, AC was leading the BSF Commando Platoon along with CT Khade Nand Kishor M, HC Ramesh Chandra Budhani and CT Shahanwaz Wali Bhat. While cordoning, Shri Nishi Kant, AC observed two armed unknown persons approaching towards the village in their direction, he immediately ordered Commando platoon to take position and asked them to allow these persons to come closer so that their identity could be confirmed. He also asked Police rep present with him to confirm from STF/CGP whether above personnel belongs to them or otherwise. Meanwhile, above armed persons saw Shri Nishi Kant, AC and No. 02216490 CT K Nand Kishor M who were in position together at about 80 mtr distance and Maoists immediately opened fire on Shri Nishi Kant, AC and Ct K Nand Kishor M. On being fired upon, above officials opened burst fire on above armed unknown persons in their self defence. Resultantly, both the Maoist sustained bullet injuries and fell on ground but subsequently one of them got up and continued firing by changing his position. Shri Nishi Kant, AC and CT K Nand Kishor M kept on effectively retaliating the fire upon Maoists despite being at less advantageous position.

When Shri Nishi Kant, AC and CT K Nand Kishor M were fired upon by armed Maoist, CT Shahnawaz Wali Bhat who had taken position slightly behind from leading section immediately positioned and moved forward in the direction of Maoists, fire with utter disregard and joined Shri Nishi Kant, AC and CT K Nand Kishor M who were continuouslyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1009 retaliating the Maoist's fire. While shifting his location, one of the bullets fired by Maoists hit CT Shahnawaz Wali Bhat's left foot and started bleeding profusely, but he did not lose courage and continuously kept on retaliating the Maoists fire.

The officer showed outstanding bravery, commendable leadership traits, high standard of professional approach along with CT Khade Nand Kishor M. and No.124204210 CT Shahnawaz Wali Bhat during the operation which resulted in killing of one Hardcore Maoist, recovery of SLR and other maoists related items and compelled other Maoists to flee away to save their lives. A successful and result-oriented operation was executed by the troops of 140 BN BSF and an example of unparalleled conspicuous gallant action, and professionalism which brought laurels to the Border Security Force was set by them.

In this encounter, S/Shri Nishi Kant, Assistant Commandant, Khade Nand Kishore Madhukarrao, Constable and Shahnawaz Wali Bhat, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 02/02/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 154-Pres/2017-The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Border Security Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Sushil Kumar (Posthumously)

Head Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

During the Cross Border Firing on Jammu IB from 21 Oct 2016 to 01 Nov 2016, in the intervening night of 23/24 Oct 2016 at about 2315 hrs, Pakistani Rangers suddenly started heavy volume of unprovoked firing and shelling with heavy automatic/flat trajectory weapons and medium/heavy Mortars from Pak Posts, Putwal Morcha, Chaprar & Chaprar Fwd in the AoR of BOPs Mangral, Sangral and Khatmarian of 127 Bn, mainly targeting the forward duty points (Naka Mounds), BOPs and also the adjoining Civilian areas. No. 920061969 Head Constable Sushil Kumar of 'G' Coy, 127 Bn was deployed at Naka Mound No. 04 of BOP Sangral as Naka Commander along with his party comprising Ct Purshottam Dhruv & Ct Dharambir Singh. Due to intense and concentrated firing from Pak side, a number of forward duty points incl Naka Mound No. 4, came under heavy fire of Pak HMGs/BMGs and were badly pinned down. On sensing the gravity of situation, Head Constable Sushil Kumar, as Naka Comdr of Naka Mound no 4, took stock of the overall situation and on careful analysis, appreciated that one of the forward Morchas/Bunkers of Pak Post Putwal Morcha, firing with HMG was effectively pinning down own positions. Head Constable Sushil Kumar directed his party to engage the forward enemy positions by their personal weapons and he himself took over the charge on the Automatic Grenade Launcher (AGL), deployed at the Naka Point and started targeting the said forward Morcha/Bunker. As a result of pinpoint retaliation by Head Constable Sushil Kumar, the said bunker of Pak Post Putwal Morcha was badly damaged and fatal injuries were also inflicted on the Pak Rangers/Army personnel inside said bunker. Not stopping at the immediate success, Head Constable Sushil Kumar continued with his resolute fervor in engaging other forward enemy positions knowing fully well that in view of his fierce firing, he had become obvious target of the enemy fire and his life was in danger. As a result of the sudden and effective retaliation from Naka Mound No. 4, almost all the forward enemy bunkers were effectively pinned down and immediately stopped the fire. However, after a brief hiatus, the Pak Rangers supported by Pak Army personnel resisted their positions and again started firing heavily, specifically targeting Naka Mound no 4. However, with utter disregard to his personal safety & life, Head Constable Sushil Kumar kept on engaging the enemy positions and also encouraged his under command troops to respond in hard hitting manner.

During the continued heavy exchange of fire, at about 0025 hours on 24 Oct 2016, an 82 mm Mortar shell landed near the Mound No. 4 and its splinters hit Head Constable Sushil Kumar through the loop hole and injured him grievously on his upper body i.e. on chest/neck area. Despite being grievously wounded, Head Constable Sushil Kumar refused for immediate evacuation and kept on firing relentlessly at the enemy positions which were bringing down effective fire on forward duty points/Naka Mounds. In the process, once again he dealt the lethal blow and damaged another forward morcha/Bunker of Pak Post, Putwal Morcha. Meanwhile, casualty evacuation party was immediately called from the post in BP Bunker Vehicle and the grievously wounded HC Sushil Kumar was promptly evacuated to the nearby MI Room of 192 Bn BSF, where he was provided with the first aid and was further evacuated to Govt. Medical College & Hospital, Jammu. However, he succumbed to his injures enroute and was unfortunately declared as brought dead by the medical authorities at about 240230 hours. Due to the gallant and daring action displayed by HC Sushil Kumar in the face of heavy enemy fire, two of the forward Morchas/Bunkers of Pak Post Putwal Morcha were effectively destroyed besides causing other damages to men & material.

Head Constable Sushil Kumar of 127 Bn, BSF not only displayed tremendous courage under fierce enemy fire & extraordinary combat audacity in giving befitting & hard hitting response to the enemy but also motivated his under command & fellowmen to retaliate effectively. However, in the process, he made supreme sacrifice while defending the motherland.

In this action Late Shri Sushil Kumar, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 24/10/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 155-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Border Security Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri N. Bino

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

Pakistan started unprovoked firing Mor shelling across the IB on night intervening 23/24 Oct 2016 in AOR of 192 Bn BSF & other units of Ftr Jammu and continued unabated firing/shelling up to 01 Nov. 2016. During this period i.e. on 27 Oct 2016, No. 021641042 Ct N Bino, Ct J S Amit and Ct Rajath Kumar Behra were deployed for OP duty from 1200-1800 hrs at one of the most vulnerable forward duty points i.e OP No. 02/Naka Mound No. 03 of BOP S H Way, 192 Bn BSF. The said OP/Naka mound of BOP S H Way has been sited very carefully in close proximity to the IB for keeping a direct & close observation on enemy activities in the forward positions. The said OP/Naka mound is located at a distance of 30 mtrs, as from the Morchas/Bunkers on Pak forward bundh. As such, being closely deployed in almost an eyeball to eyeball situation, the troops deployed at the said OP/Naka Point always remain vulnerable to direct enemy fire. Thus keeping in view the overall vulnerability and in order to increase the overall fire power of the said duty point, a 7.62 mm MMG has also been deployed. The said 7.62 mm MMG was also considered as a threat by the Pak Rangers as it was effectively engaging most of the forward Morchas/Bunkers on Pak Bundh and Pak Post New Hut was also on its target hit.

When unabated firing & Mor shelling was going on in entire area of 192 Bn BSF, at about 1315 hrs, Ct N Bino and his party observed two Pak Rangers moving stealthily at the rear side of the Pak forward Bundh along with a Rocket Launcher mounted on shoulder of one of the Pak Rangers, with an apparent intention of destroying their duty point i.e the OP No 2/Naka No 3 and also to inflict casualties to the deployed BSF troops. Meanwhile, both the Rangers quickly climbed up and appeared on Pak forward Bundh with the Rocket Launcher still mounted on the shoulder of one of them and the other supporting/directing him. On noticing the Pak Rangers, Ct N Bino, understood their evil intentions and with scant regard to his personal safety from the direct and imminent fire of Rocket Launcher; decided to take a bold initiative knowing fully well that an imminent threat was looming large over his own life and promptly fired a long burst of 14 rounds from 7.62 mm MMG in the face of direct RL firing and in the process also alerted other OP points. As a result of his accurate firing, combat audacity and bold action, one Pak Ranger was shot & fell down on spot whereas the other one also sustained bullet injuries. Both the Rangers instantly slid backwards taking advantage of the cover of the forward Bundh & dense vegetation. Due to effective and accurate firing by Ct N Bino, a temporary Pak OP point located at the Forward Bundh also caught fire and subsequently got burnt. Later, on the basis of the int reports from BSF as well as reports from the other sister agencie, it was confirmed that one Pak Ranger namely Manzoor r/o village Daluwali near Sialkot of 12 Wing CR was killed and other one was grievously injured due to accurate fire. The gallant and daring action by Ct N Bino not only saved the life of his fellowmen but also neutralized the ill design of enemy by pre-emptive action.

The sheer combat audacity, steel nerves under imminent RL firing from enemy side wherein a slightest mistake could have put his own life into risk but undeterred by the consequences, he challenged the enemy directly by giving hard hitting blow to them. Regt No 021641042 Constable N Bino of 'SP' Coy,192 Bn BSF has proved his mettle of being a gallant Border man.

In this action Shri N. Bino, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 27/10/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1011 No. 156-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Balen Harizan (Posthumously)

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

An intelligence input was received on 16/06/2016, through own sources, by 203 CoBRA about the presence of a group of maoists in the general area of villages Ghatiari, Jamua and Hesalo, U/PS Pirtand, Dist: Giridih, Jharkhand. Based on the information, an operation was planned by Commandant 203 involving three teams of 203 CoBRA and State Police component. To target the area, teams left PS Pirtand at around 2130 Hrs and reached at the company base Madhuban by 2330 Hrs. From there, the teams left in a staggered way at 0245 hrs on 17/06/2016 to converge at the target from three different directions. One of the teams debussed near village Chirki while the other two teams debussed near village Palgang. The three teams then moved towards the target adopting different routes and directions.

As one of the teams i.e. team no. 1 was moving toward their target while carefully searching the region, the team personnel observed some footprints on a wet land. At that time, the team was barely 300 metres short of the target. Growing extra cautious, the team inched closer to the target but all of a sudden maoists started heavy and indiscriminate fire on the team. The team personnel immediately took positions and retaliated the fire by firing heavily on the maoists. The Maoists were securely entrenched behind covers and had plans to inflict heavy casualty on the Security Forces. The amount of fire and lobbing of grenades were making the intentions of the Maoists clear. To counter the tactics and negate the advantage of strategic height which the Maoists were enjoying, the team got divided into small groups and stretched to the flanks of Maoists. On gaining the desired formation, the team members fired heavily at the Maoists. The heavy firing was proving the might of the well trained team, seeing which the Maoists began retreating in a bid to escape into the jungles.

At this juncture, Ct Balen Harizan who was actively directing his fire on the maoists bravely came out of his cover and without any second thought about his personal safety, started chasing the fleeing maoists while simultaneously firing on them. The team personnel saw a maoist falling down after being hit by the bullets fired by Ct Balen Harizan. Soon enough, Ct Balen Harizan saw a group of maoists trying to escape aided by cover fire from other maoists. He decided to take a shot at these maoists and took kneeling position to load his UBGL. While Ct Balen Harizan was loading his UBGL, a bullet fired by maoists pierced his face under left side of nose and gravely injured him. Even the excruciating pain and profuse bleeding did not deter him from taking up lying position and firing on the maoists. Despite sustaining injuries and finding it difficult to move ahead, he kept encouraging his team to carry on the assault. The continuous assault by the team members inflicted severe loss to the Maoists before their fleeing from the place. Due to heavy bleeding, brave Ct Balen Harizan who till then had held his ground in spite of the grave injuries, he had suffered fell unconscious. He was subsequently evacuated to PHC Pirtand where he was declared brought dead. Brave Ct. Balen Harizan sacrificed his life in the line of duty and attained martyrdom.

During the whole operation, Ct Balen Harizan displayed exceptional courage and bravery. Consistent fire from the brave trooper even after injury added strength and confidence to his team to fight the maoists bravely. In subsequent search of the region, dead body of a maoist namely Behram Hansda alias Gajo alias Pankaj Manjhi, Zonal Commander of North Chotta Nagpur was recovered with one SLR, 02 magazines, 130 live rounds and cash.

In this encounter Late Shri Balen Harizan, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 17/06/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 157-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Pawan Kumar Singh

Assistant Commandant

02. Somdev Arya Sub Inspector1012 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 03. Hari Singh

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On receipt of credible intelligence regarding presence of Maoist's training camp in the general area of villages Dual Lendra and Etwar under Police Station Basaguda, District- Bijapur, a Searth And Destroy Operation (SADO) was planned and launched by 204 CoBRA Bn under the command of Sh Hanuman Prasad, DC and Sh Pawan Kumar Singh, AC along with the Chhattisgarh Police in the target area. Since exact location of the camp could not be ascertained, an exhaustive operation for 03 days and 02 nights was planned, which was further extended to 05 days and 04 nights to locate the Maoist training camp and nab the Maoists. The area of operation is allegedly considered to be a Maoist bastion and planning/executing such a long and exhaustive operation was in itself a real feat.

Taking this opportunity on the hand, joint operational parties left the base camp on 22/11/2015. Following the ops planning, troops tactically dominated/searched the target area to locate the Maoist training camp and halted in the jungles of the target area on 22/11/2015, 23/11/2015 and 24/11/2015. Troops were continuously striving to locate the target for 03 days, but found nothing notable. It was the zeal and enthusiasm of the troops and their Commanders that they decided to continue the operation.

Staying for a long time in the core Maoist-infested area has always been perilous. Ignoring the threat involved due to above, troops continually endeavoured for their target. The peril took its shape when on 25/11/2015 at around 1730 hrs, as the troops were tactically wending through the jungle area of village Kurcholi, got trapped in the Maoists ambush. Finding the security forces in their ambush zone, Maoists started indiscriminate fire on the party of State Police, which was well retaliated by the party in self-defence. Meanwhile, the party commander asked for reinforcement from 204 CoBRA troops. On hearing the above, the CoBRA commandos swung into the action and moved tactically towards the firing spot in mutual support from all sides to encircle the Maoists.

Undaunted by the extensive fire of Maoists and their fortified tactical positions, Sh. Pawan Kumar Singh, AC displaying extraordinary courage and tactical acumen, launched a counter offensive assault on Maoist positions. Amidst raining bullets where any move could have been fatal, Shri Pawan Kumar Singh, AC, SI(GD) Somdev Arya and CT(GD) Hari Singh gallantly attacked the Maoists and advanced towards their positions. Adopting sensible fire and move tactics and exhibiting conspicuous bravery, they firmly held their ground in spite of grave threat to their lives and put effective fire to neutralise the Maoists. Firing continued for about an hour. Taken aback by this extraordinary courage and strong counter- offensive, Maoists fled away taking advantage of thick forest and terrain. During post encounter search, troops recovered dead body of one hardcore Maoist in uniform, later identified as Kunjam Sukau S/O Kunjam 'Sandi, along with arms/ammunitions, hand grenade and other incriminating items.

Despite lassitude of the 4th continuous day of operation, the troops fought valiantly putting their lives in the line of fire for their objective and to. defend one another.

Recoveries made :—

1. 12 Bore rifle : 01 No.

2. Country made rifle : 01 No.

3. .303 Amns : 07 Rds.

4. Hand Grenade No. 36 : 01 No.

5. Detonator : 02 Nos.

6. Tiffin Bomb : 01 No.

7. Cortex wire : 200 Mtrs.

8. Electric wire : 30 Mtrs.

9. Pithu : 04 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Pawan Kumar Singh, Assistant Commandant, Somdev Arya, Sub Inspector and Hari Singh, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 25/11/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1013 No. 158-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Niraj Kumar

Assistant Commandant

02. Kishore Lal

Inspector

03. Pawan Kumar

Constable

04. Naini Gopal Maiti

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

An operation to conduct massive combing in the jungles of villages Basaguda, Chinnagelur, Peddagelur, Gundam, Koteguda, Tarrem and Pegdapalli, a maoist stronghold, under PS Basaguda, District Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, was planned by Shri Niraj Kumar, Asst. Comdt., 168 Bn. CRPF. Accordingly, one platoon each of A/168 and Special Action Team along with State Police personnel stealthily entered in the jungle in the wee hours of the morning of 18/08/2015 and started combing the area. After conducting a massive search of the villages i.e. Chinnagelur, Peddagelur and Gundam, the troops took LUP in the jungle near village Koteguda. Next day, the troops conducted search of the villages Pushwaka and Pegdapalli but when contact with the Maoists was not established they planned to withdraw from the area adopting a strategically different route.

At about 1730 hrs., while withdrawing, when the troops were negotiating a hillock, the Maoists hiding in an ambush at the top opened heavy fire at them. The leading troops mainly Constable Pawan Kumar and Constable Nani Gopal Maity under command Inspector Kishore Lal immediately retaliated and took positions behind available covers. Inspector Kishore Lal, while retorting to the fire of the Maoists, assessed the location of enemy and its strength and conveyed the same to his commander Sh Niraj Kumar, Asst. Comdt. To launch a strategic counter-attack, Shri Niraj divided his troops into two and ordered SI Vaibhav Dixit to advance to the hillock from left along with his team to further launch a concerted two directional attack. Thereafter, he himself advanced ahead under incessant rain of bullets in support of his troops. On reaching at the front, he assessed the situation and with the amount of fire coming at them could make out that the Maoists were not more than a platoon in strength. Considering the limited strength of the enemy, he decided to take them head-on and along with Inspector Kishore Lal, Ct Pawan Kumar and Ct Nani Gopal Maity, crawled ahead under covering and supportive fire. The troops too followed their commanders and the team moved ahead using tactics of fire and move.

Hardly had the troops advanced 20 meters when the amount of fire coming at them, suddenly with increased use of automatic weapons. Shri Niraj took no time to understand that it was a much-much bigger ambush than he had anticipated. It seemed a ploy of the Maoists to first employ limited fire power and when the troops reach close to them, a fierce assault be launched. Well prepared for such a contingency and surprise attack, Shri Niraj ordered SI Vaibhav Dixit to hurry his advance and counter-attack the Maoists. As SI Vaibhav Dixit found his Commander and other troops under grave threat of their lives, he took along Constable Sobha Ram Barman and Constable Dhiraj Singh and the three literally ran uphill towards the Maoists positions without caring for the bullets being flying all around. On reaching close to the Maoists positions, they opened heavy fire coupled with firing of grenades at the safely entrenched Maoists. To accomplish their task and to uproot the Maoists, they even took the risk of their own lives by firing grenades from standing position with minimal cover at front. Surprised by the move of brave troops and the counter-attack, the Maoists had to unwillingly open a second battle front. As the fire power of the Maoists got divided, Sh. Niraj manoeuvred his team towards the Maoists positions. The troops crawled ahead for final assault but found that the Maoists were well entrenched behind temporarily built secured Morchas. Any further move towards the enemy with its gun blazing would have been detrimental to the troops.

To overcome the stalemate, Sh. Niraj formed two buddy groups to launch a flanking attack at the first Morcha in front. The first group of Shri Niraj and Ct Pawan Kumar crawled towards the right and the second group of Inspector Kishore Lal and Ct Naini Gopal Maiti crawled towards the left without caring for their lives, displaying great courage and conspicuous gallant the groups continued their movement under heavy bullets to gain an appropriate position to attack. Once they gained the position, they opened heavy fire at the Morcha. The Maoists soon realised that they have been cornered from three directions and used every weapon of their armoury coupled with lobbing of grenades to intimidate the troops but soon gave up and began to flee one by one. As the fire from the Maoists side decreased and the troops gained some space to advance, the three groups advanced undeterred without caring for the fire and grenade blasts displaying exemplary courage and bravery and launched the final assault on Maoists. In the ensuing close gun-fight, they shot down two Maoists while others began fleeing taking advantage of thick vegetation and undulating terrain. The troops chased the Maoists but they1014 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 managed to flee. The area was searched after the encounter and two dead bodies of Maoists ( later identified as of Hemla Nanda and Sodhi Vichyam) with one .303 Rifle, 33 rounds of ammunitions, 3 pipe bombs, 3 bundles of wire, 26 numbers of spikes, 1 Bow and Arrow, 1 ammunition pouch, 4 numbers of maoist banners and other incriminating items were recovered. It was later confirmed that in this fierce encounter, some other Maoists had also sustained injuries but they managed to flee from the spot.

Shri Niraj Kumar, Assistant Commandant (IRLA-8875), No. 971320263 Inspector Kishore Lal and their buddies namely No. 041662782 Constable Pawan Kumar and No. 065102605 Constable Naini Gopal Maiti played vital role in the operation right from the planning state to the perfect execution. They fought from the front during the counter-attack and despite being in the disadvantageous positions did not lose the composure. In the fierce gun-fight their bravery resulted in the neutralization of two Maoists.

In this encounter, S/Shri Niraj Kumar, Assistant Commandant, Kishore Lal, Inspector, Pawan Kumar, Constable and Naini Gopal Maiti, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 19/08/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 159-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Rajeev Kumar Chaudhary

Commandant

02. Naresh Kumar

Assistant Commandant

03. P.K. Panda

Constable

04. S. Prakash Constable

05. Vishwabhan Singh

Constable

06. Bajesh B

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

Observing the days of National importance in the Kashmir Valley brings new challenges to the Security Forces as the anti-national forces make all out efforts to disrupt the celebrations. The celebration of Independence Day'2016, turned out to be more challenging due to highly volatile and vulnerable Law & Order situation in the Valley in the aftermath of the killing of a "Hizbul Mujahedeen" Commander by SFs. To ward off disruptions and thwart the nefarious designs of militants, Srinagar city was kept under strict vigil.

On 15/08/2016, at about 0800 hours, militants, holed up in a building near Nowhatta Chowk, Srinagar, opened indiscriminate fire upon the troops of 28 Bn deployed at Nowhatta Chowk, Srinagar and a fierce encounter ensued. The information of the encounter reached all the concerned officers of the operational range and the units who reacted promptly and rushed towards the incident site along with their respective troops. Shri Rajeev Kumar Chaudhary, Comdt-28Bn, Shri Pramod Kumar, Comdt.-49Bn and Shri Rajesh Kumar, 2-I/C of 28 Bn along with other operational commanders analysed the situation and with a counter planning moved towards the area where militants were holed up. While advancing towards militants, 2-IC, saw CT/GD Dilip Das who was severely injured. Amidst the heavy firing by the militants, he, showing utter disregard to his life fired on the militants and daringly evacuated above injured jawan from the firing line of militants. Meanwhile, Valley QAT of CRPF U/C Sh. Naresh Kumar, AC reached the incident spot and started strengthening the cordon to prevent any possible escape of the militants.

QAT troops were welcomed with the heavy volume of fire by the militants while they were getting deployed around the target building where militants were holed up. Undeterred by the mortal threats, Sh. Naresh Kumar, AC, with his bravePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1015 troopers reached close to militant's position and located their position. While Valley QAT troops were engaged with militants, Shri Rajeev Kumar Chaudhary, Comdt.-28 Bn with CT/GD Bajesh. B, tactically moved towards the rear side of the hideout to block the escape route but were caught in the eyes of militants, who, in no time, inflicted a burst fire upon them which missed the duo brave troopers by a whisker, however, this could not deter them to move forward. The duo taking a calculated risk, reached near the hideout and lobbed HE-36 Grenades followed by the bunch of UBGLs on militant's position. The blast suppressed the fire of militants for a while and allowed the troops on another side to get closer and occupy an appropriate position to fire upon the militants. Taking advantage of the situation, Shri Pramod Kumar, Comdt. 49 Bn along with 2-IC stormed the militants imposing rapid fire of bullets towards them. While dominating the militants through their ferocious action, they decided to move out of their cover to give the militants the final blow. The duo, throwing all precautions into the air, came out of their covers, adopting fire & move tactics to neutralize the militants. While zeroing in towards the target, the valiant officers ignoring the grave risk of being noticed by the militants attacked fiercely and inflicted bullet injuries to one of the militants but in the process, one stray bullet pierced the skull of Shri Pramod Kumar, Comdt. The brave officer succumbed to his injuries and attained martyrdom. Despite, the fall of his brave fellow comrade, 2-IC did not lose his nerves and held the ground firmly by continuing the attack on militants.

While militants were engaged in firing with above troops, Sh. Naresh Kumar with Constable P K Panda, Constable Vishwabhan Singh and Constable S. Prakash took the position in a building in front of the hideout. At that time, Sh. Ajith Babu, DC, who also reached the encounter site along with IG Srinagar Sector, joined Valley QAT and strengthened them. Now it was their turn, as the QAT troops inflicted heavy retaliatory fire on the militants. Finding them in the baleful situation, militants lobbed a grenade towards the QAT troops which blasted in the close vicinity. Displaying their quick reflexes, troops saved themselves from the volatile situation. Due to the tactical advantageous position of the militants, bullets were not proving their worth. Hence, Constable Vishwabhan Singh was ordered to fire UBGL rounds precisely on the militant's position. Seeing this, the militants diverted their fire towards CT/GD Vishwabhan Singh to thwart his aimed fire from UBGL. Thereon, Shri Naresh Kumar, AC & Shri Ajith C Babu, moved ahead of their position and provided effective cover fire to CT/GD Vishwabhan Singh. The efforts of troops proved its worth as retaliatory fire stopped from the hideout after a while. Thereafter, a team of Valley QAT commandos comprising of Constable P.K Panda, Constable S. Prakash and Constable Vishwabhan Singh along with SOG (J&K Police) ignoring the impending threat to their lives, tactically entered the building and came out with the dead bodies of two foreign militants without any collateral damage.

During the operation, troops displayed unparalleled valor with utmost devotion and dedication towards the assigned task in adverse condition. They accomplished the task quickly, efficiently and effectively. Their unrelenting loyalty, initiative and perseverance in a life-threatening situation brought them wide acclaim and laurels to the Force.

Recoveries made :—

1. AK- 47 rifles : 02 Nos.

2. AK- 47 Magazine : 06 Nos.

3. AK- 47 rounds : 04 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Rajeev Kumar Chaudhary, Commandant, Naresh Kumar, Assistant Commandant, P.K. Panda, Constable, S. Prakash, Constable, Vishwabhan Singh, Constable and Bajesh B, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 15/08/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 160-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Dipu Das Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On receipt of intelligence input about presence of 30-40 armed maoists in general area of villages Puvarti and Tekalgurlam, an operation was launched in the general area of villages Nilamgutta, Kottaguda, Gundum, Tarem, Puvarti and Tekalgurlam under PS Basuguda, Distt.-Bijapur (Chhattisgarh) by troops of 204 CoBRA. Two Strikes of 204 CoBRA1016 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 comprising of 7 teams left for the operation on 25/04/2016 at 2000 Hours from two base camps i.e. Sarkeguda and New Tarem. The troops navigated in pitch darkness and negotiated every obstacle that came their way maintaining silence and surprise. Any breach of surprise in the area meant exposure of movement of troops and an opportunity for the maoists to lay ambushes. Not only did the troops have to clear the obstacles but also had to avoid the vigilant lookouts of the maoists who keep the area under their surveillance. Taking all precautions, the troops reached close to villages Gundam and Chutwahi on 26/04/2016 by 0225 hours.

To keep surveillance over the villages, a small team under command SI/GD Shravan Kumar, which had CT/GD Dipu Das as a scout, was sent close to the village, while the rest of the troops waited. The move was initiated to maintain the surprise of the troop's presence in the area. As the reconnaissance team had just crossed a Nallah to reach close to the village, the scout namely No. 065132291 CT/GD Dipu Das, through his night vision, observed a person standing at the fringe of the jungle just adjacent to the villages. The small team decided to catch that suspicious looking person while simultaneously informing the commander at rear about their move. The suspicious person after halting for a minute moved further ahead and entered the thick jungle.

The small team followed him and as it entered the jungle, a volley of indiscriminate fire came at them from inside the jungle. Prepared for such a surprise and sudden attack, the team retaliated and a fierce gunfight ensued at a close distance. Unfortunately in the close encounter, the scout namely CT Dipu Das of 204 CoBRA got hit by bullets and sustained injuries. Despite receiving bullets, he crawled bravely behind a tree, took his position and continued the engagement with the maoists. To attack the maoists hiding somewhere inside the thick jungle, it was imperative to further narrow down the distance and locate their exact position. But the task of getting closer to a well entrenched enemy under heavy gun fire entailed risk of life. The only possible way was to subdue the enemy fire and advance under cover fire. CT Dipu Das realized the importance of his position in the team i.e. scout and opted to advance under cover fire ignoring his injuries. Under excruciating pain and daring the whizzing bullets all around, the brave trooper advanced towards the enemy adopting tactics of fire and move and launched an attack. His ferocious attack forced the maoists to re-plan their strategy and make a retreat. The dedication and determination of the brave trooper was such that when he found that he was unable to fire from his right shoulder, used his left shoulder but not once thought of stopping his attack or withdraw. Due to his precise fire duly supported by other team members, the maoists hiding somewhere inside the thick jungle fled away taking advantage of darkness but not before sustaining severe injuries.

Troops searched the area thoroughly and recovered huge cache of arms and explosives from encounter site. Three Country Made Rifles, One Pipebomb, two set of maoist uniform, 50gms Gun Powder, 50cms Codex Wire and huge amount of other incriminating items were recovered. Further dragging marks with blood stains were also noticed, which indicated that some maoists must had been either killed or got severely injured during the encounter but managed to flee from the area.

In this encounter, Shri Dipu Das, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 26/04/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 161-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Keshaw Kumar Mishra Assistant Commandant

02. Bhumireddi Srinu

Constable

03. Surendra Budi Constable

04. Gummidi Sriniwas Rao

Constable

05. Surjeet Kumar ConstablePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1017 06. Ifran Ali

Constable

07. Babu Lal

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

An intelligence input given by I.B. indicated that Maoists were planning to attack a target near Bijapur town and for the purpose, 6-8 armed cadres would come in the town in a Scorpio vehicle. Based on the above information, a Small Action Team(SAT) of DIG (Ops) Bijapur under command Shri Keshaw Kumar Mishra, A.C. along with Shri Mohit Garg, Addl. SP of District Police, DRG and personnel from District police, Bijapur laid an Ambush/MCP (Naka) on Bijapur - Tumnar road near ITI College, Bijapur, Chhattisgarh on 10/7/2016 at around 1900 hrs. For an effective ambush, the joint teams were placed at dominating and tactically strong positions. F/No. 135271161 CT/GD Gummidi Sriniwas Rao and F/No. 035033037 CT/GD Babu Lal along with some DRG personnel were placed ahead of the main ambush to forewarn the arrival of suspects. As the duo was cautiously observing the movements along the road through their Night Vision Device, at around 1930 hrs, they noticed a Scorpio vehicle approaching towards them. The main ambush party was immediately alerted through wireless. This timely and well coordinated action later-on proved to be the pivot of a successful operation. As the suspected vehicle was ordered to stop and the occupants asked to disembark, the Maoists sitting in the vehicle opened fire at the troops and tried to break through the Naka. The hail of bullets missed the troops by a whisker but for a stray bullet which hit Sub- Inspector Devendra Darru of District Police, leaving him injured.

Shrugging off the shock of miraculous escape, the troops reacted promptly and blocked the road by taking positions in front of the vehicle, though the act posed serious threat to their lives. The swift, strategic and courageous move of the troops prevented the escape of the Maoists. The Maoists then got off the vehicle, got scattered and started fleeing in different directions, while firing indiscriminately at the troops, to disorient and avert a concentrated action. Two of the fleeing Maoists were intercepted by Shri Keshaw Kumar Mishra, Asstt. Comdt., CT/GD Bhumireddi Srinu and CT/GD Surendra Budi. On getting cornered, the two Maoists showered rain of bullets to get over them and escape from the site. But, the valiant trio, in turn, responded bravely and showing utter disregard to their lives, attacked fiercely on the approaching Maoists. In a fierce exchange of fire, at a close quarter, the valiant trio neutralized both the fleeing Maoists. Likewise, another Maoist attempting to dodge the troops and flee from the area was confronted by CT/GD Surjeet Kumar and CT/GD Han Ali. As the duo challenged the fleeing Maoist to surrender, he opened fire aiming at them. Displaying raw courage, undeterred to the threat to their lives and throwing all precautions into air, CT/GD Surjeet Kumar and CT/GD Irfan Ali boldly faced the fire of the Maoist and after parrying his bullets, neutralized him with the precise fire.

The strategy of encircling the Maoists was working effectively as few of the Maoists had been neutralized; however, some of the Maoists had got hid in the dense woods under the cover of darkness. At that juncture, the Commander, applied his tactical acumen and ordered the bomb detachment to fire Para illuminating bombs. The bomb detachment fired 3 consecutive Para bombs which exposed the position of a Maoist. The bomb detachment then opened concentrated fire at the Maoist who had positioned himself behind a tree. On getting exposed and receiving the fire, the Maoist then fired back at bomb detachment and tried to flee towards Tumnar, where CT/GD Gummidi Sriniwas Rao and CT/GD Babu Lal had already taken positions. The duo then came in direct line of fire of the fleeing Maoist, who, inflicted heavy volume of fire upon them to create a pass to escape. But, CT/GD Gummidi Sriniwas Rao and CT/GD Babu Lal, without caring for their personal safety, moved out of their covers and neutralized the Maoist. Once the firing was stopped, area was thoroughly searched during which four dead bodies of Maoists along with one 9mm Pistol, one country made .315 bore gun, one Muzzle loaded gun, one wireless set (Chinese), live rounds etc. were recovered.

During the operation, the dastardly misadventure of the Maoists was countered with the courageous decision making, selfless leadership, unparalleled bravery and team spirit by the troops. The party under the command of Shri Keshaw Kumar Mishra, Asstt. Comdt. fought valiantly, by putting their lives in the line of fire, to counter the enemy attack knowingly well that every step could have been fatal.

In this encounter, S/Shri Keshaw Kumar Mishra, Assistant Commandant, Bhumireddi Srinu, Constable, Surendra Budi, Constable, Gummidi Sriniwas Rao, Constable, Surjeet Kumar, Constable, Ifran Ali, Constable and Babu Lal, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 10/07/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty1018 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 No. 162-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Sunil Khinchi

Assistant Commandant

02. Bhanu Pratap Singh Sub Inspector

03. Lalit Kumar

Constable

04. Kavi Chaudhary Constable

05. Kinu Mundri

Constable

06. Raghunath Saren Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

A reliable intelligence input was received regarding the presence of top maoist military leaders of the Chhattisgarh region namely Hidma, Nagesh, Sonu and Udham Singh (all from the 1st Bn. of PLGA) along with other 200 cadres in the general area of Dubbakonta and Kolaiguda, under PS-Bheji, Sukma. These arrant maoist military leaders have created ghastly environment in the region by their cruel activities. The area of Dubbakonta and Kolaiguda is allegedly considered to be a maoist citadel and is deponent to number of fierce encounters. Undaunted to the above difficult conditions, teams of 208 CoBRA took this input as a rare opportunity to nab/eliminate the terror figures and based on the above input planned and launched an operation at 1700 hrs on 18/11/2015.

The three CoBRA teams under the overall command of Shri Sunil Khinchi, AC along with two teams of 219 Bn, one team of 217 Bn and two teams of DRG (District Reserve Guards) left Bheji base camp on specified time. In a dusky night and through formidable geographical terrain, the bravehearts negotiated all the obstacles and navigated to a pre decided launching point stilly. From the launching point, all the teams took their respective routes to the target area. While Team 1 was marching through its designated route, it was the unwinking consciousness and hawk-eye approach of scouts CT Pankaj Sharma and CT Sher Singh, as they overheard some suspicious sound in near vicinity. Immediately, they allusively alerted the troops at back.

Karthikeyan S, AC, who was leading the team and wending behind scouts, came forward stealthily, observed and assessed the situation using binocular and sighted a gathering of some uniformed maoist cadres at a distance of approx 70-80 meter having automatic weapons. He immediately conveyed the situation to the party commander Shri Sunil Khinchi, AC who was available with another team at a distance. Without hotfooting for an immediate action, in a bold and courageous decision, the party commander asked Karthikeyan S, AC to move closer to maoists positions and pluck specific information about their strength. Karthikeyan S, AC, without reckoning for subsequent risks adhered to the direction of the party commander and crawled stilly towards the maoists position along with three Constables. The four returned with the precise information on the strength and location of the maoists and passed it on to their commander. Based on the specific information, Shri Sunil Khinchi, AC then planned stratagem by exploring the area on digital map to encircle and nab the maoists. He chalked out all likely escape routes and directed all team commanders to place the cut-offs on specific points while placing his team also at a strategic escape route.

Meanwhile, he ordered team to mutely clutch the ground. It was a high voltage circumstance, in which the troops had to hold their nerves and breathe to maintain the secrecy. Any slipup may have resulted in a disastrous outcome both for the troops and the operation. To their high standards of training and discipline, team patiently maintained absolute silence at a distance of 50 meters from the enemy for about 30 minutes.

As all the teams occupied their respective positions, one team moved ahead to tighten the noose around the maoists but a sentry of the maoists sensed the unwanted presence and opened indiscriminate fire at it. Soon other maoists also got alerted and they also opened heavy fire at the troops. The sudden move of the maoists brought the team under grave threat to life especially the lead team members. However, the lead members though were exposed to raining bullets of the enemy in absence of any cover, yet retaliated with their full capacity and neutralized few maoists. Beaten by the fierce retaliation from the CoBRA troops, the maoists started fleeing from the spot toting their injured and dead by taking advantage of thick jungle and rocky terrain.

The strategic foresight of the Party commander Shri Sunil Khinchi got shaped into reality when after few minutes, fugitive maoists, who were ferociously attacked by the team, regrouped and started fleeing towards anticipated jungle area of village Kolaiguda and Entapad. Team of Sh Sunil Khinchi, AC had already taken its position on the above route. Fleeing maoists, who were around 30-40 in numbers, on sensing the presence of troops on their way opened indiscriminate fire from their automatic weapons on them. Due to the early detection of troops and heavy shower of bullets being fired by the maoists, Sunil Khinchi, AC improvised his plan of attack and directed SI/GD Bhanu Pratap Singh to move from left flank along with his section and encircle the maoists. Meanwhile, he along with CT Kinu Mundri, CT Raghunath Saren, CT Kavi Chaudhary and CT Lalit Kumar surreptitiously slipped from their positions and moved to the right flank. Amidst torrent of bullets, where troops were exposed to grave risk of their lives, the men at flanks displayed exemplary courage and mettle, as they moved ahead stealthy using fire and move tactics and started encircling the maoists.

The astounding move of Commandos left the maoists stunned and surprised. To counter the move, some of the maoists took positions behind big boulders and intensified their fire by using LMG and other sophisticated weapons. But the move did not deter SI Bhanu Pratap Singh to give covering fire using UBGL to the party of Shri Sunil Khinchi which was crawling ahead to occupy strategic positions while countering the attack of the maoists by their precise fire. On gaining the desired positions, the party then launched a fierce attack at the maoists while resulted in killing of some maoist cadres. Feeling badly pounded and seeing their cadres falling to the bullets of troops, the maoists started fleeing from the spot toting their dead and injured taking advantage of rugged terrain.

During search of the area, troops recovered two dead bodies, one of a female maoist cadre with Bharmar gun (later identified as Aas Jogi, I/C Military Intelligence Konta Area) and one male maoist in black uniform (later identified as Madkam Mukka @ Bhaskar, Commander Konta LOS) wearing CoBRA pattern pouch with two guns and two magazines of 5.56 mm INSAS rifle containing 31 rounds.

The teams fought fearlessly and valiantly during the encounter without caring for their lives. They placed their lives in the line of fire to defend the sovereignty of the Nation. This valorous act of above mentioned personnel resulted in killing of some dreaded maoists, out of which dead bodies of two maoists were recovered, and injuries to many more. The operation was a rare example of tremendous grit, courage, confidence, great tactical acumen and high order of command & control.

Recoveries made :—

1. Country made gun 12 Bore : 01 No.

2. Bharmer : 02 Nos.

3. INSAS magazine : 02 Nos.

4. Live rounds 5.56.MM : 31 Nos.

5. Empty case of 5.56 mm : 11 Nos.

6. 12 Bore live round : 13 Nos.

7. Country made grenade : 01 No.

In this encounter, S/Shri Sunil Khinchi, Assistant Commandant, Bhanu Pratap Singh, Sub Inspector, Lalit Kumar, Constable, Kavi Chaudhary, Constable, Kinu Mundri, Constable and Raghunath Saren, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 19/11/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 163-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Ashok Kumar

Second-in-Command

02. Shravan Kumar

Sub Inspector1020 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 03. Kaushal Singh Constable

04. Tapan Kumar Barman

Constable

05. Rajiv Ranjan

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

After receiving intelligence inputs about presence of Somdu (LOS Commander, Usur) and Manila (DVCM of Pamed Area Committee) along with 25-30 armed Maoists in the jungles of villages Nambi and Gunjepara and another group of 30-40 armed Maoists in the jungle adjacent to villages Paurguda, Pujarikanker and Tumrel, under PS :—Usur Dist: Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, a joint Search and Destroy Operation for 05 days and 04 nights was planned. To execute the operation, a team consisting of troops from 204 CoBRA, STF ,DRG and local police was formed under over all command of Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-IC, 204 CoBRA.

Weighing all the opportunities/threats and to operate effectively in the Maoists den, Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-IC divided the team into four strike parties, Party No. 1- State Police of Awapalli PS, Party No. 2- 204 CoBRA, Party No. 3 - DRG and Party No. 4- STF. As per the plan, joint troops left their base camp Awapalli at 0400 hrs on 15/07/2016 towards the target area. Throughout the day, troops strived ardently to locate the Maoists but couldn't succeed and took LUP in the jungle area near village- Tekmetla for night halt. Focusing the target, on 16/07/2016 at first brightening, troops started combing the jungle towards village Paurguda. Being the core Maoist dominated area; eventuality of Maoist ambush/attacks always prevails. Presumptively, presence of troops in the area was sensed by the Maoist and while troops were on the task, at around 1330 hrs, as the Party No. 1 was negotiating a hill, Maoists perched on the top opened indiscriminate fire on the troops with intention to kill and snatch the weapons. Acting promptly, troops immediately took position and retaliated in self-defense.

On getting the information about exchange of fire, Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-IC who was leading the Party No. 2, swung into the action. Using his tactical acumen, he instantly chalked out a counter action plan and ordered Party No. 3 and 4 to lay cut off from left, right & rear side of Maoists position. He himself with Party No. 2 moved ahead to encircle the Maoists from right side. By the time, the Party No. 2 had covered half of the distance to reach to the hilltop, the Maoists had begun to withdraw from their positions after firing heavily at Party No. 1. On hearing the decreasing volume of gunfire and anticipating the withdrawal of the Maoists, Shri Ashok Kumar hurried his advance and in an attempt to reach closer to the Maoists positions at the earliest, he took along SI/GD Shravan Kumar, CT/GD Kaushal Singh, CT/GD Tapan Kr Barman and CT/GD Rajiv Ranjan with him while ordering others to follow. As the small group of intrepid soldiers moved further ahead, they suddenly came across a group of heavily armed Maoists withdrawing from their ambush. The Maoists on noticing the troops, immediately opened indiscriminate fire at them and tried to flee from the area. The bullets of the Maoists just missed its target. But, Shri Ashok Kumar was in no mood to let Maoists escape. Displaying utter disregard to his personnel safety, he fired at the fleeing Maoists and ran after them. Emulating the raw courage of their commander, troops followed him and chased the Maoists without caring for their lives. But, the luck seemed to favor the Maoists that day as another group of Maoist which was also withdrawing from the ambush accidently followed at the same route of withdrawal. This group on seeing their comrades in danger immediately opened fire at the troops and tried to encircle them. The other Maoists, on getting the support, also began firing at the beleaguered small group of troopers. Shri Ashok Kumar soon found himself and his valiant troopers encircled by the Maoists with rest of the team still at a distance. But the valiant troopers did not falter. They crawled their way to a pit amid the rain of bullets to find a cover for counter attack. Once the troops occupied the position, they direly counter attacked the Maoists by showering bullets upon them. In this fierce counter attack, troops hit their intended targets and a number of Maoists got injured which sag the morale of the Maoists and they began to flee from the spot. But the valiant troopers did not stop there and chased the fleeing Maoists till they got disappeared in the thick bushes of the jungle and stopped their fire. Thereafter, Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-I/C, asked all the four parties to carry out a thorough search of the area, during which, troops recovered 4 dead bodies of the Maoists from the bushes at different places along with Country Made Gun (SBML)-04 Nos. Further search resulted in busting of a camp from where heavy warlike stores like ammunitions, explosives, bombs etc were recovered. Lots of blood stains were also noticed in the area indicating that many more Maoists were also hit by bullets but managed to flee taking advantage of thick forest and gorges.

The operation was a grand success in the heartland of the Maoists and it was made possible because of the extraordinary courage shown by the personnel of 204 CoBRA on forefront under the extra ordinary leadership of Shri Ashok Kumar, 2IC. Shri Ashok Kumar, 2IC displayed great presence of mind, superb operational sense without caring for his life and exhibited extraordinary courage, bravery and conspicuous gallant action while launching the counter offensive against the Maoists. SI/GD Shravan Kumar, CT/GD Kaushal Singh, CT/GD Tapan Kumar Barman and CT/GD Rajiv Ranjan have also shown extraordinary bravery, selfless team spirit, dedication towards their duties and gallant action in which they fearlessly moved forward risking their lives and attacked the entrenched enemy.

Recoveries made :—
1.    Bharmar Gun (SBML)                 :       04 Nos.
2.    Pressure Cooker Bomb (5lter)       :        02 Nos.
3.    Pipe Bomb                          :        03 Nos.
4.    Tiffin Bomb                        :        01 No
5.    Battery                            :       02 Nos.
6.    Laptop Charger (HP)                :        01 No
7.    Fuse Wire                          :       02 mtr.
8.    Gelatine                           :        04 Nos.
9.    Empty case                         :       32 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Ashok Kumar, Second-in-Command, Shravan Kumar, Sub Inspector, Kaushal Singh, Constable, Tapan Kumar Barman, Constable and Rajiv Ranjan, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 16/07/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 164-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Neeraj Kumar Uttam

Assistant Commandant

02. Sandeep

Sub Inspector

03. Pawan Kumar

Head Constable

04. Saroj Kumar Mathur

Constable

05. Shabir Ahmad Khan

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

Based on an input about presence of maoists in the area, an Inter-State operation was launched by troops of 205 CoBRA duly supported by troops of 190 Bn, 22 Bn and 159 Bn CRPF and state police in the general area of villages Doat, Piparahi, Sondahi and Nare U/PS-Barachatti, Distt-Gaya & U/PS- Hunterganj, Distt. - Chatra (Jharkhand) on 16/05/2015.

As the target area was sparsely spread, eight teams were formed to comb the area and each team was given a specific target. The teams surreptitiously left their base camps during night and after navigating in dense forest for the whole night, reached closer to their specific target areas the next morning. Like-wise, the team under command of Shri Neeraj Kumar Uttam, Asst. Comdt. also reached near village Sondahi i.e. their first rendezvous maintaining the stealth and surprise. As the surveillance team was keeping an eye over the area for a tell-tale sign of the maoists, it noticed a villager with a big utensil suspiciously moving towards a hill-lock at the back of the village. This slight observation and the topography of the area were enough signs for the Commander to make out the suspected location of the maoists. The hill-lock with dense vegetation was an appropriate tactical location with a village nearby to maintain the supply of ration. Shri Neeraj ordered his surveillance team members to withdraw deeper in jungle while imprinting the topography of the area in their minds.

To launch an attack at the suspected place, he organized his troops into two teams and briefed them based on the topographical knowledge, his surveillance team had collected. As the location of the maoists was not known, he decided that1022 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 both teams would enter the hill from two different directions and move uphill towards the top. The routes which had sufficient covers to evade the eyes of the maoist sentries were also chalked out. After proper briefing, two sub-teams each under command of Shri Neeraj and SI/GD Sandeep moved towards the target with a resolute and after reaching at the base of the hill, got divided. Moving uphill, with the enemy perched on top and ready to shoot at any intruder, was fraught with danger to their lives. Nevertheless, the two sub-teams without showing any sign of nervousness and ready to counter a surprise attack, moved ahead with alacrity. At around 0645 hrs, as expected, a sentry of the maoists hiding behind dense vegetation noticed the movement of troops and immediately opened sudden and indiscriminate fire at them. Ready for such an attack, the scout namely Constable Saroj Kumar Mathur opened fierce fire at the maoist while remaining firm on his ground. His fire was so fierce that the maoist did not get any further chance to move out of his cover and fire at the troops. Under the covering fire of Ct Saroj, the team members moved ahead to attack the maoist sentry. But soon the other maoists present in the nearby camp joined the gun battle and opened heavy fire at the advancing troops. The commander quickly reshaped his strategy adapting to change of events. As the intense fire was obstructing any further movement of the troops, the Commander ordered SI Sandeep to move towards his position and launch an attack at the maoists. Meanwhile, Shri Neeraj decided to keep engaging the maoists till SI Sandeep launches an attack. The maoists confident of their tactically advantageous position and good fire power did not leave the ground but planned to inflict major loss to the security forces. In furtherance to their plan, the maoists began to encircle the troops, but this was the moment, Shri Neeraj was waiting for.

As the location of the maoists got disclosed, he ordered his troops to open fierce fire coupled with firing of grenades at the covers behind which the maoists were hiding. At this juncture, he himself moved out of his cover, without caring for his life, alongwith Ct Saroj and launched successive grenades at the maoists positions. The counter-offence proved fruitful and some maoists sustained severe injuries. The bold move of the Commander and his troops, wherein they literally faced the bullets of the enemy with their bare chest, forced the maoist to re-think their strategy.

But soon enough SI Sandeep joined the gun-fight with his team and he charged at the maoists with his buddies namely HC Pawan Kumar and Constable Shabir Ahmad Khan and wreaked havoc at the maoists. The three moved ahead firing successive grenades at the maoists positions without caring for the bullets fired at them. Their uphill advance in the absence of covers and blasting of successive grenades made the maoists shudder for their lives. Soon the maoists began to flee from the area under supportive fire of each other. The troops had turned the tables on the maoists and were now hysterically chasing them. Their bravado and heroics could be very positively felt on imagining as to how troops would have almost ran uphill towards the maoists who were spraying bullets haphazardously. During chase, the maoists took benefit of their advantageous positions, dense forest, and hilly terrain and fled from the area. In the place of encounter, the troops spotted dead body of a lady naxal (later identified as of Sarita Ganju @ Urmila, a deadly maoist commander with 5.56 mm INSAS Rifle, 3 magazines and live rounds. Thereafter the team searched' along the expected route taken by fleeing maoists and recovered a large number of incriminating items i.e. two country made guns, 238 rounds of ammunitions, one radio set, 1 wireless set, maoist literatures, one detonator, one mobile set, one cane bomb wires etc. and blood stains suggesting that a lot more number of maoists had suffered injuries in the encounter.

Despite imminent threat to their lives, Shri Neeraj Kumar Uttam, Asst. Comdt., SI/GD Sandeep, Head Constable Pawan Kumar, Constable Saroj Kumar Mathur and Constable Shabir Ahmad Khan displayed bravery & exemplary courage and counter-attacked the maoists. The maoists had all the advantage of terrain, surprise and fire-power, but the Commander and his team displayed a rare show of tactics, proficient acumen and valour resulting in neutralization of a maoist commander while inflicting severe injuries to other maoists and recovery of huge arms and ammunitions.

In this encounter, S/Shri Neeraj Kumar Uttam, Assistant Commandant, Sandeep, Sub Inspector, Pawan Kumar, Head Constable, Saroj Kumar Mathur, Constable and Shabir Ahmad Khan, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 17/05/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 165-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Akhilesh Kumar Chaubey

Assistant CommandantPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1023 02. Surendra Kumar Patel

Sub Inspector

03. Dhalwinder Singh

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 16/01/2016, a brief exchange of fire took place between troops of 168 Bn. CRPF and maoists near village Dalla, U/PS Gangaloor, Distrist Bijapur (Chhatisgarh). The exchange of fire confirmed the presence of maoists in the general area. To trap the maoists, an operation was planned by Shri Akhilesh Kumar Chaubey, Asst. Comdt., of 204 CoBRA wherein he first zeroed on the probable escape route of the maoists and then launched a Search and Destroy Operation in the general area from 16/01/2016 to 18/01/2016. For the operation, he targeted five villages i.e Dalla, Badi, Sukanpalli, Itawar and Korsermeta all under PS Gangaloor.

As per the plan, three teams of 204 CoBRA along with a State Police representative under the command of Shri Akhilesh Kumar Chaubey surreptitiously moved out from the base camp Tarren on 16/01/2016. On 16/01/2016 and 17/01/2016, troops conducted thorough search of the area but no contact with the maoists was established. On 17/01/2016 night, when the troops were in LUP, the commander received an information about the movement of maoists near villages Autapalli, Tarrem, Hidmapara, Gotapalli and Pediya. On receipt of information, the commander reshaped his strategy and each team was given a different target to comb while being in mutual support. As the first light fell on earth, the teams moved towards their target areas and began combing the jungles. Like-wise team under command Shri Akhilesh Kumar Chaubey began combing the jungle near villages Hidmapara and Gotapalli.

At about 0915 hrs, as a team being commanded by Shri Akhilesh was moving uphill combing the jungle, the maoists perched at a height suddenly blasted an IED followed by indiscriminate fire. The team and especially the scouts namely Shri Akhilesh, SI/GD Surendra Kumar Patel and CT/GD Dhalwinder Singh had a narrow escape of their lives as bullets just missed them by a whisker. The troops were well prepared for such a sudden and surprise attack and thus without losing any of the precious moment, flung into action and retaliated with full intensity. A fierce encounter at a close distance ensued. The situation was highly skewed in favour of the maoists as they were holding tactically advantageous positions and were thus thwarting every attempt of the troops to launch a counter attack.

Being aware of maoists tactics of encircling the troops by taking advantage of familiarity of terrain and dense jungle, Shri Akhilesh pre-empted his move and instead launched a flanking attack himself. At first, he ordered his troops to fire fiercely at the maoists which forced the maoists to pin down for a moment. Taking advantage of this small window of opportunity and without giving a second thought to their safety, Shri Akhilesh, SI/GD Surender Kumar Patel and CT/GD Dhalwinder Singh came out of their covers and moved close to the flank of the well entrenched enemy. Before the maoists could regain the stock of the situation, these brave troopers rained bullets on them from close quarter. This setback to the maoist spread panic in their ranks and they began to retreat; however some of the maoists who were safely entrenched behind secured covers still held the ground and fired intensely at these brave troopers. Though the formidable attack by the troopers in the face of grave risk had breached the defence of the maoists but the fire from some of the well entrenched maoists was hindering the further advance of the troops. Taking the responsibility of silencing the guns of the enemy, the three dare-devils again in a rare show of bravery moved out of their covers and launched a concentrated fire at one of the hold up maoists. Their concentrated fire resulted in killing of the maoist. Shaken by the audacity of the troops and finding it hard to sustain the onslaught anymore, the maoists fled from the encounter site leaving behind the dead body of one of the cadres, one injured cadre alongwith arms and ammunition, IED, pipe bomb and other incriminating items.

Recoveries made :—

1. 12 Bore rifle : 01 No.

2. Pipe bomb (IED) : 01 No.

3. Tiffin bomb : 03 Nos.

4. Empty case of A.K.47 : 05 Nos.

In this encounter, S/Shri Akhilesh Kumar Chaubey, Assistant Commandant, Surendra Kumar Patel, Sub Inspector and Dhalwinder Singh, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 18/01/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty1024 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) [PART I—SEC. 1 No. 166-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officer of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER

Shri Ajay Kumar (Posthumously)

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

In Jharkhand, Turner, Pundag and Burha Pahar areas are considered as safe haven for the Maoists being the insurmountable terrain, impermeable shag and limited approachable routes for the security forces. The area has witnessed a number of ensanguined encounters between the ultras and security forces over a period of time. Security forces are continuously engaged in operations against the Maoists in this area since long. Meanwhile, intelligence input regarding the presence of CPI (Maoist) CCM Arvind with 80-100 armed members in the above areas was received through reliable sources which were further corroborated with other available information. Accordingly, an Operation TRACHAND' was planned and launched in the forest area of the village- Jhauldera U/P.S. Bhandaria, Distt- Garhwa, Jharkhand by the troops of CoBRA- 209 & 203 Bn with other CRPF units.

As per the plan, two strike team of CoBRA 209 Bn under the overall command of Shri Kamlesh Singh, Comdt were assigned the task of search and destroy operation in the target area. Troops started for their target area on 09/07/2016 from their base camp and while advancing cautiously, they maintained utmost surprise and secrecy to achieve the desired outcome. While ceaselessly endeavouring for the target, on 11/07/2016 at about 0430 hrs, the strike bifurcated in two parties to follow their predefined/planned routes towards the target area. Cruising towards the target area, troops reached the vicinity of village- Thalia and covered the northern as well as southern hillocks from the village. After observing the activities around the village and forest around, one team of 209 CoBRA descended the northern hillock to search the village. As strike- 1 was moving tactically towards the east of the village, scout noticed some suspicious movement at a distance of about 400-500 meter uphill and alerted the troops and commander. Keeping the prevailing situation in mind, troops surreptitiously started ascending the upward gradient of the hillock when a spurt of bullets came upon them from atop of the fore ridge. It was a well fortified deadly Maoist ambush.

The teams immediately took the position and retaliated the Maoists firing. Undaunted to the Maoists firing, troops mightily started advancing towards the height with covering the left and the right flank to counter the Maoists firing and break their ambush. While troops were tactically advancing uphill towards the Maoist position and close to hill top "Jhandi", at around 1120 hrs, Maoists triggered series of IEDs planted around the axis. The strategically fortified location of Maoists, their heavy firing using sophisticated weapons including LMG and now the IED blasts in series, were turning the situation into their favour. Things were getting worse for the troops as their firing from flat trajectory weapons were going into vain. A bold and fearless act was the need of the hour.

Taking stock of the situation and to overpower the enemy, strike commander Shri Nitin Kumar, DC decided to launch an intensive attack on Maoist post and one of his brave trooper No.-105161253 CT/GD Ajay Kumar for playing a decisive role to fire UBGL uphill on Maoist position. In such incurable situation where any move could have been fatal being the risk of exposure to enemy fire, CT/GD Ajay Kumar without a second thought grabbed the opportunity and swung into action. His concentrated fire of UBGL on Maoist position created panic amongst the Maoists, forcing them to retract from their positions. As the Maoists moved back to safer position, strike commander directed the strike teams to counter Maoists from three directions. CT/GD Ajay Kumar moved from left direction with his team. The Maoists were also not ready to let the situation go away from their control, they again occupied the tactically advantageous position and opened the heavy torrent of bullets upon the troops. At around 1210 hrs, when the Maoists again seemed to be trying to dominate the troops moving from the left flank, CT/GD Ajay Kumar again emerged as the unconquerable entity. He, without caring for his life, moved ahead, firing gallantly with his A.K-47 and UBGL on Maoists, inflicted huge damage to them. Due to his audacious action, the troops started advancing ahead, from the right & left flank, which had almost stopped heavy firing, hurling of grenades from the Maoists.

Thus the Maoists, under utter distraught, diverted their whole fire on CT/GD Ajay Kumar but brave CT/GD Ajay Kumar kept manoeuvring his positions tactically, amidst roaring guns and flying bullets. He got very close to the Maoists' position and was in a relatively vulnerable position being depressed location & little cover. During his intrepid advance, when CT/GD Ajay Kumar was trying to fire UBGL, a bullet pierced through his left shoulder but could not affect his guts. Showing utter disregard for his life, the injured CT/GD Ajay Kumar with selfless devotion to duty and with raw bravery continued to hold his position and helped the troops to advance and mount left and right flank attack on Maoists. Despite all the odds viz. unfavourable terrain, improper cover and incessant enemy fire had tested the resolution of CT/GD Ajay Kumar; he took the highest degree of risk and without caring for his life decimated the enemy through his precised firing and tactical acumen. While being evacuated, he succumbed to his injury and achieved martyrdom. Because of his gallant action troops could break Maoists ambush and left them devastated. During the operation, No. 105161253 Late CT/GD Ajay Kumar of 209 CoBRA Bn displayed tactical acumen with chivalry and made supreme sacrifice for the nation and his team.

In this encounter, Late Shri Ajay Kumar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

This award is made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 11/07/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 167-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Praveen Kumar Constable

02. Bhaju Ram Yadav

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 19 Jan 2017, at about 0430 hrs, a specific intelligence about a. dreaded LeT terrorist, hiding in a house in Khosa Mohalla of Hajin town, under PS - Hajin, Distt- Bandipora, J&K, was received from SSP Bandipora. Based on the input, a cordon and search operation was launched by the joint troops of 45 Bn CRPF, SOG (JKP) and 13 RR.

Being a crowded locality, the exact location of the house in which the terrorist was hiding could not be identified. Therefore, in order to ensure a full proof cordon and prevent slipping out of hidden terrorists, the forces encircled 3 suspected houses adjacent to each other. 13 RR laid the inner cordon on the Northern, Western and Southern side, whereas the Eastern side was covered by QAT 45 Bn CRPF and SOG, JKP. Troops of C & D/45 Bn CRPF and the civil police placed the outer cordon, plugging all escape routes for the terrorist and also to prevent the intervention of the unruly mob, lest they create a law and order problem to facilitate the escape, opportunity to the terrorists in the melee. As expected, when the news spread in the nearby areas about the operation against the holed up terrorist, a large mob gathered around the site and resorted to heavy stone pelting on the troops engaged in the operation. However, the troops kept the mob at bay and held the ground firmly.

At first light i.e. around 0630 hrs, troops, obeying the rules, made an announcement to the terrorists to surrender before the SFs. Albeit, the suspected terrorist paid no heed to the announcement and did not relent. As the troops waited patiently for a response, a person. Posing as a civilian and attired in a Kashmiri pheran, emerged out of one of the target houses situated on the extreme West and started moving towards the eastern direction where QAT 45 Bn CRPF and SOG, JKP had taken positions. As he inched closer to the troops, he pounced inside his pheran, picked out his AK rifle and opened indiscriminate fire on the troops, injuring a Constable of the JKP. While firing heavily on the troops, the terrorist swiftly moved towards the Rakshak vehicle of SDPO Sumbal, before the troops could position themselves and retaliate. The terrorist picked out a grenade and tried to open the rear door of the vehicle to throw the grenade inside the vehicle causing maximum. casualties to SFs.

By the time troops had already taken the position and were ready for counter action. They attacked the terrorists with controlled fire to avoid any collateral damages to civilians as well as own troops deployed in the close vicinity. The terrorist had a narrow escape in the strong retaliatory fire from the troops as the flying bullets missed him by a whisker. Hitherto, the terrorist had realized that he has been thickened by the SFs and chances for escape were feeble. In such odds, the terrorist made his desperate attempt to lob the grenade towards the cordon party. The grenade landed close to CT/GD Praveen Kumar and CT Bhaju Ram Yadav of CRPF. However, the sharp reflection and quick movement of the above, duo saved their life as they took a well-calculated leap away from the place of explosion; escaping miraculously. Undaunted to the situation and conquering the fear, CT/GD Praveen Kumar and CT Bhaju Ram Yadav decided to take heads on with the terrorist. It was now or never moment for the duo. Holding their nerves and vanquishing post-explosion trauma, both the brave young men unmindful of their personal safety and exhibiting raw courage with extraordinary bravery in the face of clear and imminent threat, dashed towards the terrorist. They attacked fiercely on the terrorist with their precise firing and neutralized him before he could take the further move.

The slain terrorist was identified as Abu Musaib; Division Commander of LeT, Category A+', a dreaded and most wanted terrorist. He is the nephew of Zaki Ur Rehman Lakhvi (LeT operational chief of Pakistan and the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai attack). One AK 56 assault rifle, three magazines, assorted ammunitions, grenades and other war like stores were recovered from the incident site.

In this encounter, S/Shri Praveen Kumar,Constale and Bhaju Ram Yadav, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 19/01/2017.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 168-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Ram Kishan

Deputy Commandant

02. Om Prakash

Head Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 19 June 2016 at about 1530 hrs, on receipt of a specific intelligence input from the local police about the presence of terrorists on the outskirts of Lethpora, near Khyber Milk Plant, in village Ladoo, PS-Awantipora, Distt - Pulwama, J & K, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by the troops of 110 Bn CRPF and SOG/JKP in the target area.

After reaching in the proximity of the target location, the party was divided into two strike teams. The first team led by SP Awantipora and assisted by Shri Ram Kishan, Dy Comdt of 110 Bn CRPF, laid the cordon from the southern side of the target location and the second team commanded by Shri Kishore Kumar, Comdt 110 Bn, CRPF and assisted by Shri Ajaz Ahmad, Dy SP (Ops) of SOG Pampore, laid the cordon from the northern side of the target location. Once the cordon of the area was completed, an announcement was made to give an opportunity to the terrorists to surrender before the troops. However, paying no heed to the appeal, terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on the second team and rushed southwards where the first team had already taken the position. SP Awantipora and Shri Ram Kishan, Dy Comdt, displaying their tactical acumen directed their troops to remain calm. They waited for the terrorists to move towards them. Once they spotted the terrorists rushing in their direction, both the officers displaying raw courage and exemplary bravery shattered with a barrage of bullets & faced the terrorists. Finding them cornered by the SFs and sensing the gravity of the situation, the terrorists took refuge in the nearby dense orchard. Meanwhile, both the teams closed in to tighten the cordon to prevent the terrorists from slipping out.

During the exchange of fire, few civilians who were working in their fields got entrapped at the encounter site. In such a critical situation, Comdt 110 Bn obeying his commitment for the duties towards the people, acted sensible. He along with HC/GD Om Prakash of 110 Bn and SOG Pampore took the grave risk to their lives and evacuated all the trapped civilians to safety amidst heavy cross-firing. Thereafter, the parties opened heavy fire on the terrorists from both sides. The orchard was dense and the terrorists were constantly changing their positions to trick the forces. Not the ones to beat a retreat in the face of grave and imminent threat to life, SP Awantipora along with Shri Ram Kishan, Dy Comdt decided to take the bull by the horns. Displaying exemplary valour, sheer grit and highest degree of professionalism, both the officers crawled towards the terrorists amid the heavy firing and charged at the terrorists. The terrorists, sensing the death lurking round the corner, intensified the firing on approaching troops.

Thrashed by the firing of above duos, the terrorists ran towards the direction where Comdt 110 Bn with his team were positioned. HC/GD Om Prakash of 110 Bn and ASI/GD Irshad Ahmad of SOG, J & K Police were directed to take on the approaching terrorists. The duo, held their nerves in most volatile situation as they waited for the target till the appropriate time. Once the militants approached towards the duo, they, sensing that their moment of action had arrived, charged on the approaching terrorists. Exhibiting unparalleled valour, nerves of steel and true character in the face of grave adversity they fired upon the militants and neutralised one of them. However, the other two terrorists managed to slip out taking advantage of the canal and thick vegetation. During the post encounter search dead body of the slain terrorist, Khubaib @ Abu Qasim r/o Pakistan, A+ category of LeT with one AK-47 Rifle, two Mag. and twenty five numbers ammunitions were recovered by the troops.

In this encounter, S/Shri Ram Kishan, Deputy Commandant and Om Prakash, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 19/06/2016.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 169-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Rakesh Sharma

Assistant Commandant

02. Gagandeep Singh Constable

03. Patel Vishal Ramsing

Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On an intelligence input about movement of armed Maoists near village Gahami,PS Chandiposh, Distt. Sundargarh (Odisha), an operation namely SARGRAM-2' was launched by joint troops of 19 Bn CRPF and State Police at 2000 hrs on 11-11-2015 under the command of Shri Rakesh Sharma, Assistant Commandant.

The team under command Shri Rakesh Sharma, navigated surreptitiously and reached on the bank of Brahmani River which was required to be crossed to reach the target area. Relying on his understanding of the maoists and their warning system generally placed at such likely places of river crossings, the Commander kept the area under surveillance for some time to detect any unwanted presence. During the process, the scouts namely CT/GD Gagandeep Singh and CT/GD Vishal Patel, positioned at 35 meters ahead of the main party, observed movement of two human silhouettes who came out of the jungle across the river and headed towards them. The information was shared with the Commander who alerted the whole party and crawled to the scouts. A clear view through the Night Vision Device confirmed the weapons slung in ready positions on the shoulders of the suspects.

The time for action had come and the Commander and his buddies waited with bated breath and weapons firmly held in their hands for any eventuality. The Commander had already instructed his buddies that he would be the first to challenge the enemy as he did not want to lose the opportunity, by committing any mistake, which he had gained after a difficult navigation in dense and dark jungle. To ensure that the suspected persons or maoists do not flee under cover of darkness and thick jungle, he had planned to challenge them once they cross the river and come close to them, though it involved a greater risk to their lives. On crossing the river, the two suspects/maoists that were still at a distance of around 40 meters from the troops made a whistling sound. It was probably a signal and four more suspects were seen coming out of the woods. The situation had put the Commander, who was ready to challenge the maoists, in a fix as at that time he was not in a position to strengthen his scouts and thus changed his plan. The two suspects/maoists, ignorant of the presence of troops, then moved towards their direction maintaining a gap of around 10 meters between themselves. The situation posed a challenge to the Commander but he took a bold and brave decision to wait until either the following suspects/maoists crossed the river, so that they could also be trapped in the ambush, or the two maoists come too close to them. Constable Gagandeep Singh and Constable Vishal Patel too understood the plan of their Commander and waited patiently for the orders. Every step taken by the armed and ready to fire suspects was proportionally increasing the threat to the lives of the troops but the brave troops held to their nerves and breathe and waited for the action. The leading suspect moved cautiously and came just too close i.e around 10 meters to the troops with his gun dangerously pointing at them but the second group was yet to start crossing the river.

As the leading suspect moved further ahead to enter the jungle, he sensed the unwanted presence of troops and opened indiscriminate fire while taking cover of a boulder. His buddy too joined him in fire and an intense fire from the maoists, came pouring in at the troops. The Commander immediately opened fire which was supported by his buddies. A fierce gun battle at the close distance i.e. 10 metres ensued. The maoists at rear seeing that their scouts had got trapped in the ambush of the troops also opened heavy fire in their support. Knowing that the maoists would not stay for long 'and would try to flee under cover of darkness, Shri Rakesh Sharma along with Constable Gagandeep and Constable Vishal Patel crawled under the heavy fire of maoists and changed their positions to gain- a suitable attacking., place. On gaining the required angle, the three in a concentrated fire gunned down the leading maoist.

After gunning down the first maoist, the three daredevils then targeted his buddy who was at a distance and firing heavily at the troops. But, the incessant fire of the maoists who were across the river was hindering the advance of the Commander and his buddies. Meanwhile, taking the advantage of darkness and supportive fire, the trapped maoist also advanced tactically towards the forest to make good his escape. To counter his plan, Shri Rakesh Sharma ordered his buddies not to care for the fire and advance towards the second maoist. Both the troopers followed their Commander and taking cover of available boulders, they advanced towards the fleeing maoist. As the maoist noticed that the courageous troopers are after him, he made a dash towards the forest. Seeing him flee, Shri Rakesh Sharma and his buddies fired and injured him due to which his weapon fell from his hand and he was seen limping before entering the thick forest. As the maoists across the river stopped their fire and fled from the area, the encounter site was thoroughly searched. During the search, dead body of a maoist with two .303 Rifles, 113 rounds of amns, two magazines and other incriminating items were recovered from the encounter site.

In this encounter, S/Shri Rakesh Sharma, Assistant Commandant, Gagandeep Singh, Constable and Patel Vishal Ramsing, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 11/11/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

——————

No. 170-Pres/2017—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the undermentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force :—

NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS

S/Shri

01. Vivekanand Singh

Deputy Commandant

02. Bhavanee Singh Meena

Sub Inspector

03. Lakhan Lal Meena Sub Inspector

04. V.D. Kamalakar Constable

Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded

On 12/03/2015, an Intelligence input about presence of a group of CPI (Maoist) led by Central Committee Member Arvind Jee in the forest bordering village-Sargaon under P.S. Chainpur, Distt :— Gumla, Jharkhand was received. To nab the maoists, an operation code named "Neptune Spear-15" was launched which involved 04 teams of 209 CoBRA, 02 teams each of 203 and 207 CoBRA, 03 teams of 158 Bn, 04 teams of Jharkhand Jaguar and State Police component. To target the area, three strikes were inducted from three different directions and locations with each given a specific area to search. Likewise four teams of 209 CoBRA moved from Ranchi on 12/03/2015 at 2200 hrs in vehicles and after covering some distance, left the vehicles near village Kotam on 13/03/2015 at about 0130 hrs. From there, the troops moved on foot towards the given target area along the planned route. On reaching close to the target area, the four teams as part of Strike 1, got divided and formed two strike groups. One of the groups consisting of two teams moved towards the hillock located at the back of target area to block the escape routes while another group consisting of two teams advanced fearlessly towards the foothills i.e. the target area. At around 0700 hrs, as the two teams under the command of Shri Vivekanand, Dy. Comdt. along with Md. Arsi, SDPO Gumla advanced towards the probable hideout; they noticed the presence of two suspicious persons in a stream at a distance. The commander immediately formed a small team comprising of Shri Kumar Brajesh, Asst. Comdt., SI/GD Bhavanee Lal Meena and CT/GD V D Kamlakar and advanced with it to nab the suspects. Hardly had the team moved some fifty meters ahead, when the maoists hiding in the jungle, opened sudden and heavy fire at it. The team immediately took position and retaliated. But, the location and number of maoists was not clear due to the dense vegetation. Meanwhile the two suspects ran into the jungle and disappeared in it. With enemy tactically positioned inside the thick vegetation and firing at will, it was a difficult situation for the troops to make an advance. At that juncture, Shri Vivekanand, Dy. Comdt. overcame the initial surprise and displayed his tactical acumen by ordering his team to silent its guns. At the same time, he ordered SI/GD Lakhan Lal Meena, who was at rear with two teams, to advance and fire heavily at the direction from where the fire was coming. Consequently, the maoists stopped firing at the advance team and concentrated their fire at the rear team. The brave troopers took advantage of the situation and crawled behind the dense vegetation to cover their next move. On the otherPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, NOVEMBER 25, 2017 (AGRAHAYANA 4, 1939) 1029 side, SI/GD Lakhan Lal Meena valiantly led his troops and made a ferocious but cautious advance towards the maoists positions. Sensing the advance of the troops towards its positions, the maoists blasted a series of IEDs planted for its defence. The blast of IEDs forced the troops to stop their advance but by then the commander had succeeded in breaching the defence of the maoists and had crawled to the close vicinity of the maoists with his small team of intrepid troopers. The maoists were well entrenched behind secured morchas made of boulders and logs.The battle was highly skewed against the small team and the maoists were greater in number, but without caring for it Shri Vivekanand, Dy. Comdt. ordered his team to open heavy fire at the maoists. In the fierce assault, some of the maoists got injured and were seen ducking behind the morchas. The sudden and surprise attack dented the confidence of the maoists and some of the maoists withdrew deeper in the jungle carrying their injured cadres while others remained positioned behind secured covers to stop the advance of the troops. To uproot the maoists from their positions, the troops fired heavily and a fierce gunfight at a close distance took place. The bullets were narrowly missing the brave troopers but undeterred and without caring for their own lives, the troops stood firm to their ground. In order to break the deadlock and attack the maoists in their den, Shri Vivekanand Dy.Comdt. again ordered SI/GD Lakhan Lal Meena to advance from his direction. As the maoists noticed the advance of troops from two directions, they began to flee one by one while firing simultaneously at the troops. On seeing the maoists planning to escape, the small team of brave troops moved out of its covers and advanced firing ferociously at them. In the close face to face gunfight, in absence of any cover, the valiant team neutralized a maoist besides inflicting injuries to others. The bold and courageous moved petrified the maoists and they fled from the area. The team chased the maoists for some distance but the maoists managed to flee taking advantage of dense forest.

Extreme gallant action displayed by the above officers and men not only changed the course of the battle and neutralized a maoist but also saved the troops from falling into their ambush. The maoists who were tactically positioned and had occupied advantageous positions with secured defence were counter-attacked and forced to flee after sustaining severe injuries. On searching the area, dead body of a maoist along with 01 USA made Spring Field Rifle, 01 Walky talky set, 112 ammunitions, 18 Electronic Detonators, 10 Non-Electronic Detonators and other misc. items were recovered.

In this encounter, S/Shri Vivekanand Singh, Deputy Commandant, Bhavanee Singh Meena, Sub Inspector, Lakhan Lal Meena, Sub Inspector and V.D.Kamalakar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion to duty of a high order.

These awards are made for gallantry under Rule 4 (i) of the Rules governing the award of Police Medal and consequently carries with it the special allowance admissible under Rule 5, with effect from 13/03/2015.

P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty

मुद्रण निदेशालय द्वारा, भारत सरकार मुद्रणालय, एन.आई.टी. फरीदाबाद में अपलोडएवं प्रकाशन नियंत्रक, दिल्ली द्वारा ई-प्रकाशित, 2017 UPLOADED BY DIRECTORATE OF PRINTING AT GOVERNMENT OF INDIA PRESS, N.I.T. FARIDABAD AND E-PUBLISHED BY THE CONTROLLER OF PUBLICATIONS, DELHI, 2017

www.dop.nic.in

DOPGIPF—[PART I—SEC 1]