रजिस्ट्री सं. डीएल—(एन) 04/0007/2003--18 REGISTERED No. DL—(N) 04/0007/2003—18
सत्यमेव जयते
साप्ताहिक/WEEKLY
प्राधिकार से प्रकाशित
PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY
सं. 51] नई दिल्ली, शनिवार, दिसम्बर 22—दिसम्बर 28, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940)
No. 51] NEW DELHI, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22—DECEMBER 28, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940)
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. .............. 807 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. .............................................. 1017 भाग I—खण्ड-3—रक्षा मंत्रालय द्वारा जारी किए गए संकल्पों और असांविधिक आदेशों के सम्बन्ध में अध्सिूचनाएं. .............................................. 15 भाग I—खण्ड-4—रक्षा मंत्रालय द्वारा जारी की गई सरकारी अधिकारियों की नियुक्तियों, पदोन्नतियों, छुट्टियों आदि के सम्बन्ध में अध्सिूचनाएं. ..... 2959 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—371 GI/2018
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. .............................................. 12499 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. ................................ 2113 भाग IV—गैर-सरकारी व्यक्तियों और गैर-सरकारी निकायों द्वारा जारी किए गए विज्ञापन और नोटिस. .... 2403 भाग V—अंग्रेजी और हिन्दी दोनों में जन्म और मृत्यु के आंकड़ों को दर्शाने वाला सम्पूरक. ............................ [
(807)808 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [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
807 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
1017
15 (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
2959
* 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
12499 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
2113 Statutory Bodies .......................................
PART IV—Advertisements and Notices issued by Private
2403 Individuals and Private Bodies .................
PART V—Supplement showing Statistics of Births and
Deaths etc. both in English and Hindi ......
*भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 809 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]
——————
810 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 811 812 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 813 814 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 815 816 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1'
' 'भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 817 818 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 819 820 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 821 822 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 823 824 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 825 826 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 827 "828 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 829 830 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 'भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 831 832 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 833 834 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 "भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 835 836 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 837 838 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 839 840 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 ""भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 841 "
"
"842 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 '
'भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 843 844 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 845 846 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 847 848 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 849 850 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 851 '
' '852 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 'भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 853 "854 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 855 856 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 "भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 857 858 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 859 860 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 '
'भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 861 862 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 '
''भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 863 ''
'864 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 865 866 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 867 868 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 869 870 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 871 872 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 873 874 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 875 876 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 'भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 877 '
'878 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 'भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 879 880 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 881 882 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 883 884 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 885 '886 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 887 888 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 889 890 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) [भाग I—खण्ड 1 भारत का राजपत्र, दिसम्बर 22, 2018 (पौष 1, 1940) भाग I—खण्ड 1] 891 892 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1
PRESIDENT'S SECRETARIAT
New Delhi the 5th December 2018
No. 116-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Assam Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Tabu Ram Pegu
Addl. Superintendent of Police
02. Ramen Kalita
Constable
03. Hemanta Rajbongshi
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 28-08-2015 at about 9.45 PM, based on a specific information provided by the S.P., Chirang regarding the presence of a group of hardcore NDFB(S) cadres in village Oxiguri under Amguri P.S. Dist. Chirang, Shri Tabu Ram Pegu, APS, Addl. S.P.(HQ), Chirang alongwith PSOs and Assam Police Commandos swiftly arrived at Amguri P.S and promptly chalked out a plan alongwith the OC, Amguri P.S and officers of the 7th Sikh LI Regiment of Indian Army to nab the militants.
Thereafter, Shri Pegu alongwith the entire Ops team proceeded to the target village. In order to maintain the element of surprise, Shri Pegu decided to take an arduous and round about way to the target village in a soggy night. After walking for around 3 (three) hours amidst heavy downpour, the ops party arrived at the village Oxiguri at about 1.30 AM next day i.e. 29-08-2015. On arrival at the target village, Sheri Pegu laid an effective cordon to block all likely escape routes of the militants. At the first light down, Shri Pegu led the search operation alongwith a search party at the jungle area surrounding the village. At about 5.15 AM, the search party led by Shri Pegu noticed a group of suspected NDFB(S) cadres taking shelter in a bamboo grove and on being challenged, the militants opened indiscriminate fire upon the search party. Shri Pegu and his team immediately took cover and opened retaliatory fire in self defense. A heavy exchange of fire took place between both the sides. In the meantime, the militants started fleeing towards a paddy field nearby. Shri Pegu alongwith 02 (two) commandos, namely, Const.-369 Ramen Kalita and Const.-494 Hemanta Rajbongshi chased the militants fearlessly and engaged the militants in a close quarter firefight in a paddy field seriously injuring two militants of the NDFB(S) and recovered sophisticated arms and ammunition from their possession. The grievously injured two militants were immediately evacuated and rushed to the hospital, but succumbed to their injuries on the way to the hospital. An extensive search was carried out and the following arms/ammunition, empty cases & other articles were recovered from the place of the incident.
Recoveries:—
1) 01 (one) M-16 Rifle fitted with UBGL.
2) 04 (four) M-16 Magazine.
3) 100 (one hundred) rounds M-16 live ammunition.
4) 02 (two) nos. of Magazine Pouch.
5) 01 (one) AK Series Rifle.
6) 03 (three) nos. of AK Series Rifle Magazine.
7) 36 (thirty six) rounds AK Series Live Ammunition.
8) 01 (one) 7.65 mm Pistol.
9) 84 (eighty four) nos. empty cases.
10) 02 (two) nos. Polythene Sheet (Black Colour).
11) 02 (two) nos. Backpack Bag (Black Colour).
In the instant encounter, Shri Tabu Ram Pegu, APS alongwith Const. Ramen Kalita & Const. Hemanta Rajbongshi displayed exceptional courage and bravery in chasing the militants through bamboo groves while the militants were raining down bullets on them. Shri Pegu and the Commandos constantly kept changing their position and fought valiantly againstPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 893 militants in close quarter knowing full well the grave danger to their lives. Shri Pegu kept his cool, maintained co-ordination with his ops party despite heavy gunfire and applied himself deftly to avoid casualty of his comrades.
In this operation, S/Shri Tabu Ram Pegu, Addl. Superintendent of Police, Ramen Kalita, Constable and Hemanta Rajbongshi, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 29/08/2015.
P. PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 117-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Bihar Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Vinay Kumar Sharma Sub Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 13.04.2000 morning Shri Niraj Sinha, SP, Buxar who was about to proceed on leave already sanctioned, received a message that an encounter between police and criminals was going on in Village Jaitpur under Rajpur PS. He postponed his leave and with available armed force rushed to Jaitpura. On reaching there he was told about an information that in the house of one Kashi Rajbhar some heavily armed criminals were guarding a kidnapped person by the name of Tipan Singh. On receiving this information, the OC Rajpur PS with his force surrounded the suspected house and tried to get its door opened for searching it. The criminals hiding in the house fired at the police. The police had to resort to controlled intermittent firing in self defence. The intermittent exchange of fire between the criminals and police was continuing when Shri Sinha arrived at the place of occurrence. Firing was not only coming from the house of Kashi Rajbhar, but also occasionally from some adjoining houses, which indicated that the criminals were periodically moving between these houses. Inspite of the firing Shri Sinha moved around the place of occurrence, giving directions to the police party, where and in what manner they should take position and operate. Shri Sinha constituted a team which included Shri Anwar Hussain, Inspector Sanjay Kumar, SI Ajay Kumar Mishra & SI Sri Kant Ram to try to get the door of the house of Kashi Rajbhar opened, and briefed the team members regarding operational strategy and precautions. The team advanced cautiously, while Shri Sinha provided covering fire. Some terrified villagers fleeing the village secretly informed Shri Sinha that the criminals hiding in the village belonged to the notorious gang of Suresh Rajbhar which had committed several heinous crimes. The also informed that Jaitpura and neighboring villages were predominantly populated by people belonging to the caste of Suresh Rajbhar who had several supporters in these villages. So Shri Sinha cautioned the police parties to be extra vigilant. Immediately after darkness set in, the police parties suddenly came under extremely heavy firing from several directions. Shri Sinha immediately directed the police parties to take positions and to return fire. The police parties immediately returned the fire. Shri Sinha saw that a large number of armed supporters of the surrounded criminals had assembled in the crop fields outside village Jaitpura, and were firing heavily at the police. It was indeed an ordeal for the police. In the darkness and the awesome sounds of heavy firing from several directions, members of several police parties could not properly identify the places from which they were being fired upon. Most of the police personnel available there were not used to night firing . Shri Sinha ordered the police personnel to return the fire. Firing by the criminals within the village continued intermittently. Shri Sinha assessed that the criminals hiding in the village had taken very secure and fortified positions. Therefore firing was not likely to be successful in dislodging them from their positions. To force them to leave their positions grenades appeared to be necessary but the same was not available. Hence he requested for grenades over wireless. After midnight SP Rohtas Shri S.K. Singhal arrived with a police party equipped with grenades. In spite of intermittent firing by criminals in the darkness, Shri Sinha and Shri Singhal took up positions adjacent to and south of the place of occurrence. Throughout the night intermittent firing continued between the criminals and police. After dawn on 14.4.2000 a police team under Shri Sinha started the search of suspected houses. From the house of Kashi Rajbhat, Tipan Singh was recovered, who had been kidnapped for ransom by armed criminals. A country made rifle with a live bullet in its chamber, several empty cartridges, several police uniforms, a peak cap with IPS badge, a cap with CRPF badge and a rifle cleaning road were also recovered from the said house. Shri Tapan Singh informed that 5 armed criminals had kept him in the said house of which 2 criminals had escaped on 13.4.2000 when the police had arrived and the remaining 3 had escaped into a adjacent house using a ladder. When the police was advancing through a narrow alley towards the house of Vishwanath Rajbhar suddenly a volley of several arounds was fired at the police from inside the house. By the time the police could take cover, Constable Lalan Singh got hit by a bullet near his left elbow and Havildar Hira Prasad sustained firearm injuries below his left knee. The criminals894 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 continued to fire heavily at the police from the said house. Shri Sinha decided to use grenades to dislodge the criminals from their positions. But these grenades did not have much impact. Then Shri Sinha decided to make holes in the walls of the room in which the criminals were hiding and insert grenades through these holes. While the criminals were kept engaged by covering fire, some officers including Inspector Kumar, SI AK Mishra, VK Sharma & SK Ram crawled to the house of Vishwanath Rajbhar and made holed in the walls. Then Shri Sinha, Shri Singhal and Constables Sudhir Kumar Singh, Ashok Kumar Singh, Ravinder Rai & Radhe Shyam Prasad equipped with grenades crawled and reached the said house taking advantage of covering fire. The criminals were also firing through the holes made in the walls. Facing grave danger to life, Shri Sinha & Shri Singhal and members of the grenade team threw four grenades through the holed made in the walls. But there was no response from inside the house. Thereafter the house of Vishwanath Rajbhar and adjacent houses were searched. In the Angan courtyard of the house of Vishwanath Rajbhar was found the dead body of one unknown criminal, with a regular DBBL gun, 12 live cartridges and several empties. In the sough-east room of this house were found the dead body of another unknown criminal alongwith a Mauser rifle, 170 live cartridges, 5 live other cartridges, a grenade, its fuse, and three explosive gelatin sticks. In the south-west room of the house were found the dead body of a third unknown criminal, along with two regular rifles, 107 live rifles cartridges and several empties.
In this operation, S/Shri Vinay Kumar Sharma, Sub Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 13/04/2000.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 118-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Chhatishgarh Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Amol Kumar Xalxo Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Based on reliable intelligence input regarding presence of CPI (Maoist) cadres in the village of Keshkori of Distt. Kanker. Date 02-02-2016, a joint operation of DEF, STF and 140 Bn BSF was launched under the overall command of Inspector Shri Amol Xalxo. Shri Amol Xalxo devided the Ops party into two groups i.e. DEF/STF and BSF to cordon off the village from right and left flank respectively.
As the parties moved further towards Keshkori village, around 16.30 hrs, there was a sudden outburst of fire by heavily armed naxalites on the police party with an intention to inflict severe casualitites to the police personnel. The troop commander immediately alerted his men and ordered them to take position and tactfully adcvance towards the location of the naxals. The troop commander announced the identity of the troops and warned the naxalites to stop the indiscriminate firing. Inspite of repeated warning, the naxalites were heavily firing on the police party. The security forces re-grouped themselves into smaller units and tactfully advanced towards the location from where the naxalites were firing. In self defense, the troop commander along with his men opened fire.
In this important operation he performed systematic planning and Shri Amol kumar Xalxo, Inspector shown rare and exceptional example of courage, bravery, leadership qualities, devotion to duty. He guided all forces of joint party with systematic plan and skillful leadership. Amol Kumar Xalxo has been contributed a lot of naxali operation and got success also. Then his talent and characterable leadership compliance as per duty self sacrificing are also benefited for naxal operation and the police got many successes in naxali opration under xalxo leadership.
In this operation, Shri Amol Kumar Xalxo had showed a rare and exceptional example of courage, bravery, leadership qualities, devotion to duty for mother India.
In this operation, Shri Amol Kumar Xalxo, Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 02/02/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 895 No. 119-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Chhatishgarh Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Rajesh Devdas Inspector 02. Anant Pradhan Sub-Inspector 03. Mangal Majji
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 04-08-2016 Superintendent of Police, Dantewada received information about the presence of Bhairamgarh area Commander Sanjay alongwith his Members. Information was gathred by Mangal Singh Majji, Constable of Special Intelligance Branch. Mangal Singh Majji informed S.P. Dantewada that 15-20 armed Maoists are present in the forest of village Kundar and they are planning to cross the Indravati river via Alnar and Kundenar. A Joint Team of Police party Comprising of Shri Rajesh Devdas, Inspector, SHO of P.S. Dantewada, Shri Vinod Eka„ Sub Inspector, Sangram Singh, ASI, Shri Bhisnisen Bharti and two Head Constables, 12 Constablse, 04 Asst. Constables of P.S. Faraspal and DRG of Dantewada ware deployed for effective cordon and twart the intentions of Maoists. S.P. Dantewada briefed the police party about the information and detailed instructions were given to the police party.
Police Party moved toward the target area and they laid ambush near Kunder on Kaccha Vally. On 05.08.2016 at around 05.45 hrs, some villagers spotted police party and alrted Maoists. Maoists started indiscriminately firing on Police Party. Police Party also relatiated with unprecedented valor and bravery. Inspector Shri Rajesh Devdas and Sub Inspector Anant Pradhan led the Police Party from the front and coordinated extensively with various police troops. Seeing the upper hand of police party Maoists retreated and escaped towards Mountain, taking advantage of dense forest. Two male and one female Maoists were neutrilised in the encounter Maoists were indentified as Fagu telam@ Nishant R/o Purmel, PS Mirtur, one muzzle loaded gun was recovered. Another was indentified as Ajit Muriya R/o Jagargunda (Member of Jagargunda LOS), One 0.315 bore country made rifle was recoved. Female Maoist was indentified as Manila@ Manki@ Geeta R/o Puslanka, PS Kutru (Member of NIB Company).
Inspector Rajesh Devdas and Sub Inspector Anant Pradhan displayed dauntless courage and extra ordinary valour under indiscriminate firing of Maoists. Their leadership was vital in cordoning the Maoists. It was due to their planning and quick decision making, forced Maoist to retreat and despite of large number of Maoists, no harm to police party was noticed.
It was only due to this specific information of Constable Mangal Majji of Special Intelligence Branch upon which Police party could inflict heavy damage to the Maoists and eliminated armed Maoists.
In this action Shri Rajesh Devdas, Inspector and Sh. Anant Pradhan, Sub Inspector provided exemplary leadership to his troops at the hour of crisis. When his party was attacked by Maoists he exhibited great presence of mind and superb operational sense. Shri Rajesh Devdas, Inspector and Shri Anant Pradhan, Sub Inspector fought without caring for their life, they motivated their men to defend each other, under their 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.
In this operation, S/Shri Rajesh Devdas, Inspector, Anant Pradhan, Sub-Inspector and Mangal Majji, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 05/08/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 120-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Chhatishgarh Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Raman Usendi
Sub-Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Mr.Raman Usendi, Inspector joined Police force as Constable in the year 2004 and he was promoted Sub-Inspector in the year 2012 under One Time Promotion scheme. In the year Dec. 2015 and posted in the highly naxal affected area.
896 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1On 01.01.2016, 10:30 hrs DRG party reach the nearest hill of the Kutul and moving towards the Kutul . On the way they saw the armed Naxals on the other side of the hill. The D.R.G. force immediately decided to cordon the naxals by making more than one formation. On seeing the Police party approaching towards them, the naxals in order to cause casualty to the Police party started firing. The Police party replied the firing in the aim of self defence. On seeing the police party getting dominant the naxal started running in all directions. The D.R.G. party that chased the naxals and cordon them from all directions. On seeing this naxals started escaping towards the hill, taking away injured naxals along them stop the Police party, followed them and climbed the hill. On seeing this naxals again started firing, which was replied by firing from police side. Mr Raman Usendi Sub-Inspector along with his police formation followed the naxals, heavy exchange of fire took place and the above mentioned personal exhibited conspicuous gallant act and bravery under difficult circumstances. The naxals on seeing the dominance of Police party escaped in to the jungle. The police party Incharg Raman Usendi conducted searching in the area and two dead bodies of naxal named Lakhkhu Kwashi and Kamalu Dandamiand three naxals Chaitu Varda,Vikash Usendi and Narka varda are arrested. Police party recovered One 303 rifle, three 315 rifle three 12 bor rifle, one country made rifle (Bharmar), 35 round of 315 rifle, 6 round of S.L.R. rifle and other destructive materials, two black uniform etc. from the spot.
In this operation, Shri Raman Usendi, Sub-Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 01/01/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 121-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Chhatishgarh Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Roshan Kaushik Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Inspector Roshan Kaushik displayed extraordinary courage and presence of mind during exchange of fire with the Naxalites on 05-10-2016 in the jungles of Distt. Narayanpur. Mr. Kaushik on receiving intelligence inputs, quickly briefed his team and left for the target area without any delay on 04-10-2016. He ensured that the team was fully equipped with arms-ammunitions and special equipments required for the anti-Naxal and search operation.
On 05-10-2016, as soon as Mr. Kaushik along with his team reached near the hill in Kundul-Gumchur area, the Naxalites, who were hiding near the hill, started firing on the police party with their automatic weapons like AK-47, LMG, INSAS, SLR etc. Mr. Kaushik, immediately instructed his troops to take proper cover and retaliate in self defence. Consequently, heavy firing took place between the Naxalites and the police party. In the mean time, the Naxalites fearing for their life, escaped to the hill side so that they could take advantage of the hill features.
Sensing this, Inspector Kaushik along with 4-5 policemen started moving forward by crawling while the bullets were shooting over them. The exchange of fire continued for about one hour and then ultimately the Naxalites fled away in the jungles. On searching the area, police party recovered one uniformed Naxal's dead body with INSAS Rifle-01, Bharmar- 01, 315 Rifle-01. INSAS IMG Make-02, INSAS Rifle make-02, INSAS Round-46, Knife-01, Torch-01, Black Belt-01, camouflage cap-02, Flash Camera-02, Pauch-01 and other daily usages items were also recovered. No casualty was reported from the police party. It was later discovered that the exchange of fire had taken place with the Company Number 5 of the Naxalites which was heavily armed. The dead Naxalite was identified as it's platoon commander named Santu Pinem r/o Bhairamgarh (Bijapur). Thus, Inspector Roshan Kaushik who not only demonstrated his ability to lead from the front but also responded quickly without caring for his life.
In this operation, S/Shri Roshan Kaushik, Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 05/10/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 897 No. 122-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 7th Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/2nd Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Delhi Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Sanjeev Kumar Yadav (7th Bar to PMG)
Deputy Commissioner of Police
02. Lalit Mohan Negi (2nd Bar to PMG)
Inspector
03. Hridaya Bhushan
(2nd Bar to PMG)
Inspector
04. Ramesh Chander Lamba PMG
Inspector
05. Sukhbir Singh PMG
Sub Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
The most desperate criminals of Delhi and Haryana namely Surender Malik @ Neetu Dabodha and Sandeep Chitania (since died in police encounter by Haryana Police on 17th May 2012 in Sonipat, Haryana) had escaped from Haryana Police custody on 2nd April, 2012 from Dwarka area, while they were being taken back to Bhondsi Jail after producing in Saket court.
Special Cell enhanced their efforts to arrest accused Surender Malik @ Neetu when it was revealed that they along with their associates namely Alok Gupta and one Kale killed Delhi Police Head Constable Ram Kishan posted at P.S. Kanjhawla, Delhi in the intervening night of 25/26.11.2012, who had stopped them at Jonti police picket in Kanjhawala, Delhi during picket checking. On 18.02.2013, an encounter took place between the joint teams of Special Cell and Punjab Police and accused Surinder Malik @ Neetu Dabodha @ Mohit and his associates in Sardoolgarh, Distt. Mansa, Punjab in which accused Neetu Dabodha received bullet injury but could succeed in his escape but his associate Dayanand r/o Haryana and three other local aides apprehended and accused Dayanand had also received bullet injury in the said encounter.
On 24.10.2013 specific input was received that accused Surinder Malik @ Neetu Dabodha and his associates, unknown in number, was expected to arrive in late evening hours somewhere near the petrol pump situated on the service road adjacent to Hotel Grand, Vasant Kunj, in a white Hyundai i-20 car bearing a Delhi number plate 3716. It was also informed that this visit of Neetu was to meet a contact for planning a sensational kidnapping for ransom of an unknown target. Accordingly a raid was organized to locate the suspected car of criminals and to apprehend them.
At about 10.30 PM the suspected car carrying three occupants was spotted near petrol pump. However the occupants fled away on link road going towards Hotel Grand to C-5 Block, Vasant Kunj with their car suspecting police presence. They were chased by Special Cell teams in different vehicles.
After a short follow-up the i-20 car of criminals was intercepted by ACP Manishi Chandra by his self driven Scorpio car by taking sharp left turn. The criminals, instead of applying brakes, dashed their i-20 car into Scorpio car. Immediately thereafter all the three criminals got down from their car and fled away in different directions. The criminals, sitting on the front left side fired upon the Scorpio car driven by Sh. Manishi Chandra, ACP and ran on the front, whereas its driver and the third occupant sitting on the rear seat fled on the back side towards Hotel Grand, while firing indiscriminately. In the meantime the team led by Inspr. Hriday Bhushan, SI Ravinder Joshi overtook the accidental i-20 car of suspected criminals & Scorpio car of police team and took position on the front of accidental cars and team members got down taking appropriate positions.
The criminal, later on identified as accused Surender Malik @ Neetu Dabodha, who ran on the front side of accidental vehicles after firing on Scorpio car was challenged by DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav and Inspr. Hriday Bhushan and other team members by disclosing their identities and asked him to surrender but instead, he started indiscriminate firing upon the police team members. Two of the gun shots fired by him hit SI Ravinder Joshi on his bullet proof jacket worn by him. In self defence and in order to save their lives, the police team members also fired upon the criminal, who got injured and fell down on the road side. One revolver make "Webley" was found lying beside him. After a short run, one of them crossed the road on left side and he was intercepted by the team of Inspr. Lalit Mohan Negi consisting of SI Sukhbir Singh & others. Inspr. Lalit Mohan Negi disclosed his identity and asked the criminal to surrender, but instead he opened898 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 indiscriminate fire on the police team members and one of his gunshot fired by him hit on the bullet proof jacket worn by SI Sukhbir Singh. In self defence and in order to save their lives, the police team members also fired upon the criminal, who got injured and fell down on the road side. He was later identified as accused Alok Gupta r/o Kannauj (U.P), a close associate of accused Neetu Dabodha. One Steel colored pistol was found lying beside him.
The third criminal, who was running on the right side of the road going towards Hotel Grand and holding weapon in his hand, was intercepted by the team of Inspr. Ramesh Chander Lamba. Inspr. Ramesh Chander Lamba disclosed his identity to the suspected criminal and asked him to surrender but instead he started firing indiscriminate upon the police team members and one of the gun shot fired by him hit on the bullet proof jacket of Inspr. Ramesh Chander Lamba. In self defence and in order to save their lives, the police team members also fired upon the criminal, who got injured and fell down on the road side. He was later identified as accused Deepak Gupta r/o Uttam Nagar, Delhi, associate of accused Neetu Dabodha. One pistol on which "made in USA" was engraved, found lying beside him. All the three injured criminals were removed to AIIMS Trauma Center, where all the three were declared brought dead.
In this operation, S/Shri Sanjeev Kumar Yadav, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Lalit Mohan Negi, Inspector, Hridaya Bhushan, Inspector, Ramesh Chander Lamba, Inspector and Sukhbir Singh, Sub Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 24/10/2013.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 123-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Neeva Jain, IPS PMG
Superintendent of Police
02. Nasir Ahmed
(1st Bar to PMG)
Addl. Superintendent of Police
03. Kuljeet Singh PMG
Dupty Superintendent of Police
04. Sanjeev Singh Slathia PMG
Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 20/03/2015 at 6.15 an information was received at police control room Kathuwa that two heavily armed fidayeens wearing combat uniforms had entered Police Station Rajbagh and resorted to heavy firing thereby killing a sentry and a civilian on the spot. On receiving the information SP Kathua alongwith a team of officers which included Shri Nasir Ahmed, Addl. SP Kathua, Shri Mushim Ahmed Dy SP Hqrs, Kathua, Shri Kuljeet Singh, Dy SP DAR and Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia, SHO Kathua rushed to Police Station Rajbagh in minimum possible time, to counter the attack and prevent any further damage. On reaching the spot SP Kathua was briefed about the situation regarding presence of the fidayeens who were hiding inside the Police Station building by Shri Diwaker Singh, SDPO Border Chadwal. Different teams were constituted to cordon off the Police Station building so that the fidayeens do not escape from the building and all the exit routes were plugged immediately. Shri Dewaker Singh, SDPO Border Chadwal, and Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia, SHO P/S Kathua, along with their PSOs and other police men covered front side of the Police Station while Shri Mushim Ahmed, DySP Hqrs, Kathua and Shri Kuljeet Singh, DySP DAR Kathua, along with sufficient men covered the right side of the Police Station building where an escape route was detected, thus blocking any chances of escape by the fidayeens. In the meantime two parties were placed on left and back side of the Police Station building outside the boundary wall. SP Kathua alongwith Shri Nasir Ahmed, Addl. SP Kathua, went to the top of the adjacent building (Family quarters) to assess the situation as CRPF men who were on the 1st storey of the Police Station building had to be evacuated first without causing any damages. In the meantime heavy firing by the fidayeens continued from inside which was effectively retaliated by parties at front led by ShriPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 899 Dewaker Singh and Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia, SHO P/S Kathua and by Dy SP Hqrs. Kathua Shri Mushim Ahmed and Dy SP DAR, Shri Kuljeet Singh who were covering from the right side. While the parties led by Shri Dewaker Singh, SDPO Border, Chadwal and Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia from the front side and Shri Mushim Ahmed, Dy SP Hqrs. Kathua and Shri Kuljeet Singh, Dy SP DAR Kathua from the right side engaged the fidayeens by giving cover fire, the CRPF jawans who were trapped on the 1st floor of the Police Station building were evacuated safely. Upon questioning evacuated CRPF Jawans, it became clear that one fidayeens is hiding on Ist floor while the other was hiding on the ground floor. After the CRPF men were evacuated by SP Kathua and Addl SP Kathua Nasir Ahmed, a strategy was chalked along with other two team leaders Shri Dewaker Singh, SDPO Border Chadwal, Shri Mushim Ahmed, Dy SP Hqrs. Kathua, Shri Kuljeet Singh, Dy SP DAR Kathua and Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia. While SP Kathua and her party took positions giving covering fire, the boundary wall was punctured from 6 different locations on the two sides (front and the right side). But heavy firing continued from inside the Police Station building which was effectively retaliated through the punctured locations. The exchange of fire between fidayeens and Police teams continued for almost one-and-a half hour but the fidayeens were denied any chances of escaping. The terrorists were asked to surrender but they declined the offer by firing incessantly. The fidayeens were heavily armed who lobbed grenades and fired at the police party with the intention to kill. The police parties also retaliated the fire in self defence during the course of which tear gas shells and grenades were also lobbed by Shri Diwaker Singh, SDPO Border, Chadwal, Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia, SPO P/S Kathua, Shri Muslim Ahmed, Dy SP Hqrs. Kathua, Shri Kuljeet Singh Dy SP DAR Kathua. After some time firing from inside the building stopped and using the opportunity in a daring act, SP Kathua, Addl.SP Kathua, Dy SP Hqrs., Kathua and Dy SP DAR kathua dashed inside the Police Station gate in a BP bunker, while as Shri Dewaker Singh, SDPO Border, Chadwal and Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia ran towards SHOs office and barged inside through the window without caring for their lives. Showing great courage, Shri Diwaker Singh, SDPO Border Chadwal, Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia fired on the fidayeens from the SHOs office and injured the fidayeens who ran outside from the building firing indiscriminately, but the fidayeens came under heavy retaliatory fire from both sides by SP Kathua Neva Jain, IPS ,Shri Nasir Ahmed, Addl.SP Kathua, Shri Mushim Ahmed, Dy SP Hqrs., Kathua, Shri Kuljeet Singh, Dy SP DAR Kathua, Shri Diwaker Singh, SDPO Border, Chadwal and Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia from the other side. As a result, the fidayeen was neutralized. During the gunfight, Shri Diwaker Singh, SDPO Border was hit by a gunshot, however, Inspr. Sanjeev Slathia, SHO P/S Kathua, displayed great courage and without caring for his life evacuated Shri Diwaker Singh, SDPO Border, Chadwal from the encounter side. Moving tactically, Ms Neva Jain, IPS, SP Kathua, Shri Nasir Ahmed, Addl SP Kathua, Shri Mushim Ahmed, Dy SP Hqrs., Kathua and Shri Kuljeet Singh Dy SP DAR DPL Kathua proceeded towards the 1st floor of the Police Station, where the 2nd fidayeen was hiding and fired number of gun shots and lobbed grenades. The police parties displayed exemplary courage and in a daredevil manner not only evacuated 07 CRPF Jawans from the Police Station safely but also neutralized the two fidyeens, while their own lives in grave danger.
In this operation, S/Shri Neeva Jain, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Nasir Ahmed, Addl. Superintendent of Police, Kuljeet Singh, Dupty Superintendent of Police and Sanjeev Singh Slathia, Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 20/03/2015.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 124-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Ashish Kumar Mishra, IPS Addl. Superintendent of Police
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
During intervening night of 16/17-06-2016 at about 01:00 hours, Police Sopore acting on a specific input about the presence of two terrorist of HM outfit, in co-ordination with troops of 22-RR, 92 & 179 Battalions CRPF cordoned off the entire hamlet of Chaan Mohalla Bomai Sopore. All the possible escape routes were plugged off to ensure that hidden terrorists may not be provided any chance to break the cordon.
Next day in the wee hours, door to door search was started during which the target house was pin pointed by search party. In the meantime, it was noticed that some civilians were trapped in target area who were cautiously evacuated to safer places. However, in order to evacuate the residents from the target house a well planned strategy was evolved and all the family members were evacuated safely. After due deliberations the operation was carried forward and two advance parties led by Shri Javaid lqbal, SP PC, Srinagar and Shri Ashish Kumar Mishra-IPS SDPO Sopore including Showkat Ahmad Dar, KPS-116067 and Shri Ghulam Hassan, KPS-116210 and others were constituted respectively with a party of 22-RR which sealed the target house.
900 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1In the meantime, the police party led by Shri Javaid lqbal, SP PC Srinagar occupied the houses adjacent to the target house in front side while as the another party led by Shri Ashish Kumar Mishra-IPS occupied the houses in rear side of the target houses. Both the parties started zeroing the target from all directions. The holed up terrorists sensing noose around their neck started indiscriminate firing in order to break the cordon and escape from the scene. However, advance parties led by Shri Javaid Iqbal, SP PC Srinagar and Shri Ashish Kumar Mishra-IPS SDPO Sopore including Showkat Ahmad Dar and Shri Ghulam Hassan and others exhibited extra ordinary courage and bravery retaliated the fire effectively which triggered a face to face gun battle. The gun battle lasted for some time and culminated with the elimination of two holed up terrorists later identified as Altaf Ahmad Mir S/o Abdul Rashid Mir R/o Brath Kalan, Sopore and lmtiyaz Ahmad Lone S/o Ab. Khaliq Lone R/o Wasun Khui Pattan, Baramulla. A huge cache of Arms ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No. 62/2016 U/S 307 RPC & 7/27 I.A Act stands registered in Police Station Sopore in this regard.
The professionalism coupled with outstanding courage displayed by Shri Javaid Iqbal, SP PC, Srinagar & Shri Ashish Kumar Mishra-IPS, of assault party with accurate presence of mind in demanding situation, simultaneously reaching target extremely in aggressive situation was truly gallant by all definitions and means. The operation was extremely surgical with no damage of civilians though the miscreants had started stone pelting upon the security forces who were manning the outer cordon and the situation was extremely disarray in both fronts viz-a-viz eliminating the terrorists and dealing with stone pelters.
In this operation, S/Shri Ashish Kumar Mishra, IPS, Addl. Superintendent of Police displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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. 125-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Fayaz Hussain Shah
Dupty Superintendent of Police
02. Ab. Rehman
Head Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
In the wee hours of 23-06-2016 an input was received and developed regarding presence of terrorists in Waterkhani Drugmulla area of District Kupwara. A joint operation was planned and launched by District Police, Kupwara and 47 RR, Police component led by Shri Aijaz Ahmad SSP Kupwara, Shri Fayaz Hussain ASP, Kupwara, Shri Fayaz Hussain, DySP (Hqr's) Kupwara, SHO Kupwara and I/C PP Drugmulla. The search was intensified and additional troops and Police personnel were inducted in the cordon and search operation. Terrorists who were hiding in a stone quarry at Waterkhani fired indiscriminately upon the search party in order to break the cordon and escape from the scene. The search party was enough vigilant and remained unharmed during the attack. They effectively retaliated the fire, thus successfully engaged the terrorists who were positioned in a stone quarry surrounded by dense forest trees.
In the meantime, a tactical plan was chalked out based on the ground realities by Supervisory Officer. Shri Fayaz Hussain, Dy SP (Hqrs), Kupwara and HC Abdul Rehman No 136/KP and a few other officials volunteered themselves to be part of the assault team. DySP Sh. Fayaz Hussain exhibited quality leadership and led the team close to the target during which they faced stiff resistance from the hidden terrorists, but the team held steel nerves and repulsed the fire tactfully and succeeded in zeroing three terrorists. Later assault team headed by Shri Fayaz Hussain, DySP (Hqrs), Kupwara and HC Abdul Rehman 136/KP moved close to the target and finally eliminated the three terrorist one by one. The operation ended without any collateral damage which exhibits quality leadership of the DySP Sh. Fayaz Hussain and selfless devotion and dedication by all team members especially by HC Ab. Rehman. Investigation conducted revealed that all the three terrorists belonged to LeT outfit and had recently infiltrated into this side. These terrorists were planning to target security forces and police establishments.
During the operation, the role of Sh Fayaz Hussain Dy SP, (Hqrs), Kupwara and HC Ab Rehman remained audacious, selfless and commendable. Both fought from the front without caring for their lives. Their quality leadership, selfless devotion, bravery and camaraderie has been instrumental in elimination of these 03 hard core terrorists.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 901In this operation, S/Shri Fayaz Hussain Shah, Dupty Superintendent of Police and Ab. Rehman, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 23/06/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 126-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Jammu & Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Mohd. Hussain Wani Head Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On a specific information generated by Police Handwara regarding presence of terrorist, a joint operation was planned/executed by Police Handwara with the assistance of 21-RR at Wudder Bala Village and adjoining forest areas on 23- 06-2016. After establishing the presence of hidden terrorist, target area was further zeroed to prevent his escape. On noticing the presence of operational men, hidden terrorist started indiscriminate firing which created a chaos among the civilians present in the area. However, lnspr Tariq Ahmad No.4483/NGO and HC Mohd Hussain No.182/H volunteered themselves to take the responsibility of evacuating trapped civilians. Despite hostile situation, they exhibited extra ordinary courage and bravery and succeeded in evacuating the trapped civilians amidst volley of fire.
In the meantime, for result oriented operation, on spot assault teams were constituted headed by lnspr. Tariq Ahmad including HC Mohd Hussain who again volunteered themselves for the task and directed assault teams to march towards hiding terrorist in various directions thus tightened cordon further and swiftly retaliated the terrorist attack. As the terrorist was heavily armed and highly trained, he started indiscriminate firing on the assault teams and lobbed several grenades thus making the-task more difficult for the assault teams to move forward. However, lnspr Tariq Ahmad and HC Mohd Hussain without caring for their personal lives, exhibiting nerve of steel marched towards dreaded terrorist in a fire retaliatory action and reached in close proximity of the hiding terrorist. The assault teams provided cover fire to them during the final assault upon the hiding terrorist resulting elimination of holed-up terrorist later identified as Zubair R/o PaK. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No 233/2016 U/S 307, 7/27 A Act stands registered in PS Handwara in this regard.
In the entire operation lnspr. Tariq Ahmad and HC Mohd Hussain displayed matchless courage and selfless devotion to duty of highest order and ensured safe evacuation of the civilians. The exemplary initiatives exhibited by them resulted in successful culmination of the operation without any collateral damage.
In this operation, Shri Mohd. Hussain Wani, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 23/06/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 127-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Dawood Ayoub
Addl. Superintendent of Police
02. Rayees Ahmad Bhat
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 21.09.2016, on the basis of specific information regarding presence of Fidayeen terrorist in the house of Sher Ahmed Cheechi S/O Shah Zaman of Chak Mohalla Chapran Aragam, a joint cordon/search operation was launched at about 2300 hours by Police Bandipora alongwith troops of 13 RR and 3rd Battalion CRPF, under the supervision of SSP Bandipora.
902 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1For result oriented operation, two advance teams, one headed by Shri Dawood Ayub ASP Bandipore and Major H.N. Suanlian of 13 RR and second headed by Mir Murtaza Hussain DySP PC. Bandipore and Major Sunil Singh of 13 RR were constituted and target house was effectively zeroed. While as the CRPF 3rd Battalion alongwith components of Police was assigned to lay outermost cordon in law and order attire to check the entry of miscreants in target area.
In the meantime, hidden terrorist on noticing the movement of operational men started indiscriminate firing in order to break the cordon and escape from the scene. However, priority was to evacuate trapped civilians from target and adjacent houses. To evacuate these civilians, teams headed by Shri Dawood Ayub ASP Bandipore assisted by Constable Rayees Ahmed No.353/Bpr and Mir Murtaza Hussain DySP. P.C Bandipore started evacuation process and succeeded in evacuating all trapped civilians under the cover fire provided by other operational mates. It was herculean task which recommendees without caring for their lives completed, despite hostile circumstances, volley of fire from holed-up terrorists.
Now the critical phase was to neutralization holed-up terrorists. Before launching final assault, holed-up terrorist was asked to surrender but he refused and started indiscriminate firing. However, Shri Dawood Ayub, ASP Bandipore alongwith constable Rayees Ahmed, Major H.N. Suanlian of 13 RR alongwith his team, Mir Murtaza Hussain Dy.S.P. P.C. Bandipora alongwith S.I. Gurdeep Singh and Major Sunil Singh of 13 RR with his team from different directions started to storm the target house. As the advance teams from all directions reached near the target house, holed-up terrorist started firing which resulted in face to face gun battle. The gun battle lasted for some time and culminated with the elimination of holed-up terrorists later identified as @ Hafiz R/O Pakistan. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and in this regard, case FIR No 36/2016 U/S 307 RPC, 13 U.L.A. Act, 7/27 I.A Act stands registered at PS Aragam.
In this operation, S/Shri Dawood Ayoub, Addl. Superintendent of Police and Rayees Ahmad Bhat, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 21/09/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 128-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Gawhar Ahmad Khan
Dupty Superintendent of Police
02. Irshad Ahmed Wani
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On a specific information about presence of terrorists by Police Pattan at Goushbugh on 17-09-2013, an operation was planned by SP Baramulla/DySP (Ops) Pattan with 29 RR. After planning the operation, joint teams of police/Army rushed to Goshbugh Pattan and carried out cordon and search operation of the area. Gawhar Ahmad, DySP(Ops) Pattan who was searching a part of the suspected area, sensed that the terrorists are hiding in Higher Secondary School Goshbugh and immediately instructed his party not to get inside the building to avoid any civilian/SF casualty. DySP Gawhar Ahmad, framed a rescue team of a few police personnel included Ct. Irshad Ahmed 840/IR-7th Bn and led it from the front. Two separate joint rescue parties of Police/Army were also framed who got engaged in rescuing the civilians from houses, adjacent to target Building. As soon as DySP Gawhar Ahmad and his men approached the target site, they were fired upon by terrorists. However, no retaliation was made to avoid civilian casualties and efforts were made to get close to the room where terrorists were hiding. Soon after the evacuation exercise, a joint assault party was prepared and one such party comprising of DySP Gawhar Ahmad/Ct. Irshad Ahmed 7th Bn and others were assigned the role of room intervention. Both the assault parties under the outer covering support of joint operation teams, went very close to building which lead to intense gun battle. In the first instance, terrorists lobbed grenades and opened volley of fire and tried to break the cordon. However, DySP Gawhar Ahmad and his men remained committed and did not allow the terrorists to come out of the building and break the cordon. The fierce firefight between the assault parties and terrorists remained continuing for hours together during which DyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 903 SP Gawhar Ahmad and his team showed high order camaraderie and retaliated the fire from a very close distance. The officer accompanied by Ct. Irshad Ahmed 7th Bn and others intensified the retaliation which lead to their intervention in the building and further advancement to the room where terrorists were hiding. The officer without caring for his life opened volley of fires towards the room where terrorists were hiding and there was immediate retaliation on part of terrorists. The close range gun battle between DySP Gawhar Ahmad, Ct. Irshad Ahmed 7th Bn and terrorists took place for more than 15 Minutes which lead to elimination of two local terrorists of HM Outfit who were latter on identified as Aquib Rashid Sofi @Yaqoob R/o Sofi Mohallah Palhallan Pattan, "C" Category terrorist of HM outfit and Bilal Ahmed Bhat R/o New Colony Palhallan Pattan of HM outfit. Arms/ammunition have been recovered from slain terrorists. For the incident, Case FIR No 174/2013 U/S 307, RPC, 7/27 I.A.Act stands registered in Police Station Sumbal. It may be mentioned that both the slain terrorists were active in Pattan and Sopore area of District Baramulla for a long period and had developed a rein of terror among the people/Main stream Political workers/Sarpanches of the said area. These terrorists were great threat for VIPs, Security forces and police agencies and were also motivating youth to join terrorists ranks.
In this operation, S/Shri Gawhar Ahmad Khan, Dupty Superintendent of Police and Irshad Ahmed Wani, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 17/09/2013.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 129-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Ajaz Ahmed (1st Bar to PMG)
Dupty Superintendent of Police
02. Bilal Ahmad Parray PMG
SGCT
03. Javed Ahmad Khan PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 10-10-2016, Supervisor J&K EDI Pampore informed Police Station Pampore that fire had broken out in the attic of the hostel building of J&K EDI. Accordingly, after informing the Fire & Emergency Service department, Police team from PS Pampore rushed to the spot. In the meantime when the officials of Fire & Emergency Service were combating the fire, they were fired upon by terrorists of Fidayeen group, who were hiding in the said complex. As soon as the information was shared with higher ups, Police with the assistance of 50-RR & 110 Battalion CRPF cordoned off the entire complex.
After ensuring the concrete cordon, hidden terrorists were asked to surrender which they declined. For result oriented operation and to avoid collateral damages, a comprehensive plan was chalked out under the supervision of Shri Mohammad Zaid, SSP Awantipora and to ensure that no civilian is trapped in target area, besides, to neutralize the trapped terrorists, Shri Mohammad Zaid KPS, SSP Awantipora, Shri. Ajaz Ahmad-KPS, Dy.SP(PC) Pampore, Shri Manzoor Ahmad, (Inspr) SHO P/S Pampore and SI Madasar Naseer No. 438/PAU with a police party consisting upon Sgct. Mohammad Yaseen No. 527/Awt, Sgct. Hans Raj No. 366/IR 12th Bn, Sgct. Nisar Hussain No. 499/AP 9th, Sgct. Faizan Ullah No. 529/Awt, Sgct. Bilal Ahmad No. 263/Awt, Sgct. Karnail Singh No. 776/IR 5th Bn, Ct. Tanveer Ahmad No. 670/Awt, Ct. Zahid Ahmad No. 582/Awt, Ct. Shameem Ahmad No. 455/Awt, Ct. Manzoor Ahmad No. 445/Awt alongwith 12 SPOs started zeroing the target from all directions. While they entered the complex, holed up terrorists started indiscriminate firing in order to inflict casualties and to break the cordon. However, advance team which included recommendees exhibited extra ordinary courage/determination and retaliated the fire effectively. A face to face fire fight triggered which lasted for three days and culminated with the elimination of holed up terrorists. One Army personnel of 9 Para got injured during the encounter. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from the encounter site and case FIR No.177/2016, U/S 436,307,7/27 A.Act, 16, 18, and 20 of ULA (P) Act stands registered in Police Station Pampore in this regard.
In this operation, S/Shri Ajaz Ahmed, Dupty Superintendent of Police, Bilal Ahmad Parray, SGCT and Javed Ahmad Khan, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher order.
904 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1These 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 10/10/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 130-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Ashaq Hussain Para
Inspector
02. Mohd. Iqbal
Sub-Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 12/02/2016, a specific information was received regarding presence of terrorists in Village Marsari of Chowkibal area. Accordingly, a joint operation was planned/launched by Police Kupwara in collaboration with 41 RR & 16 Grenadiers under the supervision of Shri Aijaz Ahmed, SSP Kupwara. After establishing of cordon in entire hamlet, search operation was started and it was ascertained that terrorists had taken shelter in an abandoned house belonging to Mohammad Qasim Wani. While the cordon around the target house was being established, hidden terrorists on noticing the presence of operational men started indiscriminate firing followed by grenade lobbing which resulted in injuries to six Army men. However, fire was retaliated by advance party which included Shri Ashaq Hussain, EXK-001757, SHO Kralpora and SI Mohd lqbal, ARP-109315 and holed up terrorists were not provided any chance to break the cordon and flee from the spot.
The utmost priority at that time was to evacuate the injured Army men and advance team which included recommendees in few attempts under the cover fire provided by other team mates succeeded in evacuating injured Army men. But unfortunately Sepoy Sahadan Maruti Morey, No. 15228018-H and Nk Sikander Shenker Chandra Bhan No. 2799285W of 41 RR succumbed to their injuries.
As it was getting dark, operation was suspended for next day after ensuring all measures including tightening of cordon and illumination of target area. During night hours, holed up terrorists made several attempts to break the cordon, but they were not provided any chance to succeed. Next day, for final assault, holed up terrorists were engaged by operational troops from front side and the team which included Shri Ashiq Hussain, lnspr, SHO P/S Kralproa and SI Mohd. lqbal No. 109/PAU striked from back side which triggered a face to face gun fight which concluded with elimination of 05 hardcore terrorists later identified as Fahad, Maaz, Hafiz, and Chota Dujana & Ukasha. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No. 0/2016 u/s 307 RPC, 7/27 A Act stands registered in PS, Kralpora in this regard. It is worth mentioning that slain terrorists were active in Kupwara district since 2013 and were involved in number of terror attacks.
In this operation, S/Shri Ashaq Hussain Para, Inspector and Mohd Iqbal, Sub-Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 12/02/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 131-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Sayed Sajad Hussain (1st Bar to PMG)
Dupty Superintendent of Police
02. Sandeep Bhat PMG
Dupty Superintendent of PolicePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 905
03. Kuldeep Kumar Koul PMG
Sub-Inspector
04. Lakhbir Singh PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 05.12.2014, an input was received by ESU Rajbagh about possible Fidayeen attack by LeT in Srinagar City before the visit of Hon'ble Prime Minister of India. Accordingly, SI Mohd. Altaf 3642/S, I/C ESU Rajbagh alongwith his team activated the sources and Naka was laid down at Awantibhawan on 90 feet road by teams comprising of SP City South Srinagar, I/C ESU South Srinagar alongwith their men, PC Srinagar and Police party of SP Hazratbal Srinagar under the overall supervision of SSP Srinagar.
At about 1300 hours, a Santro was intercepted by Naka men, on noticing the presence of Naka parties, two armed terrorists came down and started indiscriminate firing upon Naka party and later on rushed towards Awantabawan residential area. Accordingly reinforcement was called by SSP Srinagar and the operation was launched at 1325 hours. Before launching the operation, teams were constituted to lay the-cordon of the area. All the operational, nafri were divided into three parties, first, party comprised the nafri of Hazratbal Zone and nafri of CRPF 144 Bn F-Coy laid the outer cordon, second party headed by DySP Furqan Qadir comprising of Police component Srinagar cordoned some houses of the Mohalla, whereas the third party headed by Shridhar Patil, SP, City South Srinagar comprising of Dy.SP Ops Syed Sajad Hussain, DySP (Ops) Sandeep Bhat, SI Kuldeep Koul ARP-046125, SI Mohammad Irfan EXK-109318, HC Farooq Ahmad 309/AP7th , Ct. (Now HC) Lakhbir Singh 1446/S, Sgct Tariq Ahmad 142/S and others laid the inner cordon of the houses where terrorists were hiding.
At that stage DIG CKR Srinagar, Shri Afhadul Mujtaba-IPS who was the Incharge of the operational parties further constituted two small parties, one was headed by Dy.SP Syed Sajad Hussain, assisted by DySP Ops Sandeep Bhat, ASI Ather Pervaiz 2084/PW, Sgct Tariq Ahmad 142/S and others, the second party headed by Shridhar Patil-IPS, SP City South comprising of SI Kuldeep Koul ARP-046125, SI Mohd. Irfan EXK-109318, HC Farooq Ahmad 309/AP7th, Ct. (Now HC) Lakhbir Singh 1444/S and others. As soon as the second party tried to enter the Mohalla, the terrorists lobbed grenades which exploded without causing any damage. However, the team headed by Shridhar Patil-IPS, SP South tactfully and without caring for their lives evacuated the inmates from the nearby houses. But here the terrorists again started indiscriminate firing in an attempt to break the cordon and run away. However, both the parties headed by Shridhar Patil and DySP Syed Sajad Hussain reached the target point and retaliated the fire effectively by showing highest Gallantry action and successfully eliminated both these terrorists who were later on identified as Qari Asrar R/O Pakistan and Shahid Ul Islam Malik @ Hassan S/O Mohammad Shafi Malik R/O Eidgah Mohallah Arwani, Bijbehara. From the site of encounter AK-47 rifle 02 Nos, Magazine AK 06 Nos, Grenade 01 No, Pouch 02 Nos and Rounds of AK-47=27no's were recovered. In this regard, a case FIR No. 133/2014 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 I.A Act has been registered in P/S Soura Srinagar.
In the instant operation, the role of Shridhar Patil IPS SP South Srinagar, DySP Syed Sajad Hussain, Dy.SP Sandeep Bhat, SI Kuldeep Koul ARP-046125, and Ct. (Now HC) Lakhbir Singh 1446/S remained extra ordinary since the generation of information till its culmination. During entire operation these personnel remained determinant despite hostile circumstances.
In this operation, S/Shri Sayed Sajad Hussain, Dupty Superintendent of Police, Sandeep Bhat, Dupty Superintendent of Police, Kuldeep Kumar Koul, Sub-Inspector and Lakbir Singh, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 05/12/2014.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 132-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Mir Murtaza Hussain Sohil (1st Bar to PMG)
Dupty Superintendent of Police
02. Rashid Akber Makayee (1st Bar to PMG)
Dupty Superintendent of Police906 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1
03. Aijaz Ahmad Bhat PMG
Constable
04. Altaf Nazir Shah PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 22.11.2016, on the basis of specific information regarding presence of foreign terrorists of Fidayeen squad in Bonkhan Mohalla Hajin, who were planning for terror strike in the area, cordon was established with assistance of 13-RR and 45th Battalion CRPF under the overall supervision of SP Bandipora. During search operation, target area was pinpointed and zeroed by team consisting upon Police and troops of Army including Shri Dawood Ayub, ASP Bandipora, Mir Murtaza Hussain DYSP PC Banipora, Rashid Akber SDPO Sumbal headed by Shri Zulfikar Azad, SP Bandipora.
After zeroing the target from all side, advance party under the overall supervision of Shri Sheikh Zulafikar Azad, SP Bandipora and Col. Vikram Jeet Singh CO 13 RR was divided into two teams, one headed by Shri Dawood Ayub, ASP Bandipora, Rashid Akber SDPO Sumbal, Major P.K. Pathak of 13 RR including, Const Altaf Nazir, EXK-111724, Const Mohd Ashraf, ARP-078304 & others, this team was assigned to lay cordon from Northern to Southern sides of the target while as the second team under the command of Mir Murtaza Hussain DySP, P.C. Bandipora, Major Malay Baidya of 13 RR, including Const. Aijaz Ahmad, ARP-078317 Const. Tawseef Ahmad, EXK-116732 & others was assigned to lay cordon from Eastern to Western sides of the target. The manpower of 45th Battalion CRPF in collaboration with Police was assigned cordon and law & order duties.
In the meantime, hidden terrorists on sensing noose around their neck started indiscriminate firing. However, it was noticed that some civilians have got trapped in target area. The job of evacuation of trapped civilians were assigned to above constituted teams under the supervision of Shri Zulfikar Azad, SP Bandipora. The teams under safety cover, provided by other operational men, succeeded in evacuating the trapped civilians in several attempts. After evacuation process, the critical phase was to neutralize the holed up terrorists. Before launching final assault, holed up terrorists were asked to surrender which they declined instead resorted to indiscriminate firing and grenade lobbing. To neutralize them teams comprising of Shri Dawood Ayub Addl.S.P. Bandipora, Rashid Akber SDPO Sumbal with his men including Constable Altaf Nazir No. 836/BPR, Constable Tawseef Ahmed No. 446/BPR and Major P.K. Pathak of 13 RR with his men including Mir Murtaza Hussain Dy.S.P, P.C. Bandipora, constables namely Constable Aijaz Ahmed No. 560/IRP 8th Bn. and Constable Mohd Ashraf No. 569/IRP 8th Bn. and Major Malay Baidya of 13 RR headed by Shri Sheikh Zulafikar Azad, SP Bandipore & Col. Vikram Jeet Singh CO 13 RR started zeroing the target from all directions which triggered face to face gun battle and culminated with elimination of holed up terrorists later identified @ Ali and @ Baber of LeT outfit. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No.72/2016 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27/I.A.Act stands registered at P/S Hajin in this regard.
During entire operation, Shri Sheikh Zulafkar Azad (SP Bandipora), Shri Dawood Ayub (Addl.S.P Bandipora), Shri Mir Murtaza Hussain (Dy.S.P. P.C. Bandipora), Shri Rashid Akber (SDPO Sumbal), Constable Aijaz Ahmed No. 560/IRP 8th Bn., Constable Mohd Ashraf No. 569/IRP 8th Bn., Constable Tawseef Ahmed No. 446/BPR and Constable Altaf Nazir No. 836/BPR exhibited extra ordinary courage, determination, gallant action in evacuation of trapped civilians and in neutralizing of holed up terrorists.
It is in place to mention here that Mir Murtaza Hussain Sohil,DySP PC Bandipora also played exemplary role in the operation carried out on 10.01.2017 at Parray Mohalla Hajin Bandipora in which one foreign LeT outfit terrorist namely Abu Mavia R/o Pak "A" category was killed and Shri Rashid Akber Makayee, DySP SDPO Sumbal also participated in the operation carried out on 19.01.2017 at Khos Mohalla Hajin Bandipora in which one foreign LeT Divisional Commander namely Abu Musaib @ Musa @ Maaz "A+" category was killed.
In this operation, S/Shri Mir Murtaza Hussain Sohil, Dupty Superintendent of Police, Rashid Akber Makayee, Dupty Superintendent of Police, Aijaz Ahmad Bhat, Constable and Altaf Nazir Shah, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 22/11/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 907 No. 133-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 2nd Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Harmeet Singh (2nd Bar to PMG)
Superintendent of Police
02. Zia-Ur-Rehman PMG
Sub-Inspector
03. Sajad Ahmed Khan PMG
SGCT
04. Dawood Ahmed Bhat PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
During intervening night of 13/14.12.2016 at about 01:00 AM acting on tip, regarding presence of one Pak terrorist Commander of LeT outfit, Police Sopore in collaboration with 92/177 and 179 Battalions CRPF cordoned off the entire hamlet of village Doni Mohalla, Edipora, Bomai. The troops of 22 RR also joined the operation later on. After ensuring the chink proof cordon, it was prime priority to evacuate the civilians from target area and for the purpose, a joint advance team of Police and troops of Army which included SI Zia-ur-Rehman No. ARP-109257, SI Parveen Kumar No. ARP-085601, Const. Mohd Younis No. 743/Spr, EXK-118709 and Const. Ab Rashid No. 548/Spr, EXK-107833, Sgct. Sajad Ahmad No. 3666/PW and Ct. Dawood Ahmad No. 09/Spr, was formed in overall supervision of Shri Harmeet Singh-SP Sopore was constituted. The team exhibited highest degree of professionalism and courage in evacuating the trapped civilians from target area till wee hours.
In the wee hours, during search operation location of hidden terrorist was pin pointed, who on noticing the presence of operational men started indiscriminate firing. However, advance party which included recommendees retaliated the fire effectively which triggered a fierce gun battle. The holed up terrorist was in good position to prolong the operation till dark hours so as to manage his escape. However, advance team which included SI Zia-ur-Rehman , Si Parveen Kumar, Const. Mohd Younis, and Const. Ab Rashid, Sgct. Sajad Ahmad, Ct. Dawood Ahmad, led by Shri Harmeet Singh, SP-Sopore, started zeroing the target further in order to storm the target house. When advance party which included recommendees managed to reach in compound of target house, holed up terrorist once again resorted to indiscriminate firing and came down to first floor of the target house. However, advance party which included recommendees remained determinant like a rock and retaliated the fire effectively. The face to face fire fight culminated with the elimination of holed up terrorist later identified as Abu Bakr R/o Pak, Divisional Commander of Let for North Kashmir. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from encounter site and case FIR No. 151/2016 U/S 307/RPC, 7/27 A. Act stands registered in P/S Bomai in this regard. It is worth mentioning that the slain terrorist was functioning as Divisional Commander for LeT in North Kashmir and was managing fresh infiltrations, besides, facilitating infiltrators and providing them support till they could reach their places of operation. During the entire operation Shri Harmeet Singh, SP Sopore, SI Zia-ur-Rehman, SI Parveen Kumar, Const. Mohd Younis and Const. Ab Rashid, Sgct. Sajad Ahmad, Ct. Dawood Ahmad exhibited a conspicuous role of bravery & camaraderie. Shri Harmeet Singh, SP Sopore exhibited the highest degree of leadership in extremely hostile situation.
In this operation, S/Shri Harmeet Singh, Superintendent of Police, Zia-Ur-Rehman, Sub-Inspector, Sajad Ahmad Khan, SGCT and Dawood Ahmad Bhat, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 14/12/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 134-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Shahnawaz Ahmad Paday (1st Bar to PMG)
Asstt. Sub Inspector908 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1
02. Farooq Ahmad Dar PMG
Head Constable
03. Nisar Ahmad PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
During intervening night of 06/07-05-2016, Police Awantipora received a specific information regarding presence of terrorists in the house of Gh Hassan Shergojri of village Panzgam. Accordingly, target house was cordoned off by Police Pulwama & Srinagar with the assistance of 55 RR/130 Bn CRPF. Two assault teams, one headed by Shri Shridhar Patil-IPS, SP Awantipora and another by Shri Sandeep Chaudhary-IPS, SP (PC) Srinagar were framed. After zeroing the target house, family members were asked to come out. However, hidden terrorists started indiscriminate firing and family members got stuck in ground floor of the target house. Before retaliation, the holed up terrorists were asked to surrender and allow the family members to come out. However, they denied and fired indiscriminately. For safe evacuation of family members, advance team headed by Sh. Shridhar Patil-IPS, SP Awantipora entered the house followed by heavy volume of fire from holed up terrorists. Police party headed by Shri Shandeep Chaudhary-IPS, SP(PC) Srinagar, ASI Shahnawaz Ahmad No. 3656/S, HC Farooq Ahmad No. 309/AP 7th, Sgct Zahoor Ahmad No. 1070/S, Sgct Shabir Ahmad No. 1506/S, Ct. Mukhtar Ahmad No. 4546/S, Ct Mehraj Ud-Din No. 3172/S, Ct. Showkat Ahmad No. 1070/S, Ct. Mohammad Altaf No. 4529/S, Ct. Mohammad Shafi No. 4535/S, Foll. Fayaz Ahmad No. 89/F IR 2nd alongwith 05 SPOs kept the terrorists above their head, engaged in firing while as Shri Shridhar Patil-IPS, SP Awantipora alongwith ASI Manzoor Ahmad No. 223/Awt, ASI Irshad Ahmad No. 346/Awt, Sgct. Mohammad Aslam No. 811-IR 11th, Sgct Altaf Ahmad No. 804/PL, Ct Sartaj Ahmad No. 629/Awt, Ct. Shabir Ahmad No. 597-IR 11th Bn, Ct Nisar Ahmad No. 805/AP 12th Bn alongwith 08 SPOs proceeded meticulously for room intervention. On seeing police party proceeding ahead, one of the terrorist volunteered as Fidayeen, came out of the house covertly from back window and positioned himself against the wall of the building where from he could easily target the police party who were about to enter the house. SP Police Component Srinagar noticed the terrorist and in a fraction of second confronted him alongwith 05 SPOs and shot him dead in a brief firefight. The party headed by SP Awantipora entered the house cautiously however, they were challenged by another terrorist who was in the corridor. The police party took shield behind the staircase and retaliated the fire. Ct. Nisar Ahmad No. 805/AP 12th Bn was hit by a bullet in the initial assault near the chest but luckily no damage occurred as he was wearing bullet proof gadgets. In the brief exchange of fire, the terrorist got killed in the corridor. Later, all the family members were safely evacuated. After evacuation of the civilians, a room intervention party comprising upon ASI lrshad Ahmad, Sgct Mohammad Aslam , Sgct. Altaf Ahmad, Ct. Sartaj Ahmad, Ct. Shabir Ahmd, Ct Nisar Ahmad along with 08 SPOs headed by SP Awantipora entered into the house under the cover of fire. Abruptly the terrorist inside the house fired upon the party during effective retaliation, the said terrorist was also killed. All the three slain terrorists were identified as lshfaq Hamid Dar S/o Ab Hamid Dar R/o Dogripora (A category), Haseeb Ahmad Pal S/o Gul Pal R/o Braw Bandina (A category) and Ishfaq Baba S/o Gh Qadir Baba R/o Tahab Pulwama (B category) . Case FIR No.60/2016 U/S 307 RPC, 7/27 A.Act stands registered in police station Awantipora in this regard.
In this operation, S/Shri Shahnawaz Ahmad Paddy, Asst. Sub Inspector, Farooq Ahmad Dar, Head Constable and Nisar Ahmad, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 07/05/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 135-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Dawood Ayoub (1st Bar to PMG)
Addl. Superintendent of Police
02. Gurdeep Singh (1st Bar to PMG)
Inspector
03. Nisar Ahmad Dar PMG
Head ConstablePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 909
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 19.01.2017, based on a specific information regarding presence of some foreign terrorists in Khos Mohalla, Hajin, having the intensions to carry out fidayeen attack in nearby Police/Army establishment. The information was shared with Army 13 RR and CRPF 45 BN and accordingly joint Cordon/search operation was launched at about 0700 hours by SOG Bandipora, Police team from Police Station Hajin, Army 13 RR and CRPF 45 Bn. under the overall supervision of SP Bandipora . The Police teams were led by Shri Sheikh Zulafkar Azad SP Bandipora, Shri Dawood Ayub, Addl.S.P. Bandipora, Mir Murtaza Hussain Dy.S.P. P.C. Bandipora and Rashid Akber SDPO Sumbal. The operational parties used their tactical acumen to reach to the target area without getting exposed. Initially two composite squads of Army/Police were constituted for laying close/strong cordon of the suspected area. One operational team under the command of Shri Dawood Ayub, Addl.S.P. Bandipora, Rashid Akber, SDPO, Sumbal and Major Bishal Singh Thapa of 13 RR were assigned to lay cordon from North to South of the target area covering western side while as, the second operational team under the command of Mir Murtaza Hussain Dy.S.P. P.C. Bandipora, and Major Amit Gour of 31 RR were assigned to lay cordon from North to South of target area covering the Eastern side of the suspected area under the overall command and supervision of SP Bandipora and Col. Vikram Jeet Singh CO 13 RR. During cordon, the composite force components i.e Police/Army established greater coordination through and hence acted in a very synchronized/professional manner. While as, the CRPF 45 Bn team and another Police party were assigned to lay outermost cordon in law and order mode. As the cordon was laid, the terrorists hiding in the adjacent area fired indiscriminately upon the operational parties. It was, thus, herculean task for the operational parties to evacuate the civilians who got entrapped. Therefore, two teams were constituted for the purpose. One team under the command and control of Addl.S.P. Bandipora and SDPO Sumba' and other team under the command of Dy.S.P. P.C. Bandipora. It was an uphill task for these parties to evacuate the trapped civilians for which Addl. SP Bandipora and SDPO Sumbal alongwith their buddy. DYSP PC Bandipora Dy.S.P. probationary Saqib Gani, SI. Gurdeep Singh ARP- 046132 alongwith his buddy HC Nisar Ahmad and Constable Vikas Sharma/IRP 8th Bn. moved to close proximity of the target area that is the adjoining area from where the hiding terrorists were regularly firing .After successful evacuation of civilians, the third and most critical phase was the neutralization of hiding terrorists. The terrorists were challenged to surrender but they striked back with volley of fire and grenade lobbying. An anti fidayeen (anti suicidal) squads comprising of Addl.S.P. Bandipora and SDPO Sumbal, SI. Gurdeep Singh alongwith HC Nisar Ahmad and Major Bishal Singh Thapa of 13 RR with his buddy and Dy.S.P. P.C. Bandipora and alongwith his buddy and Major Amit Gaur of 31 RR with his buddy under the overall command and supervision of Shri Sheikh Zulafkar Azad, SP, Bandipora and Col. Vikram Jeet Singh CO 13 RR were constituted. Both these volunteered operational teams stormed the target area. The terrorists tried to run away towards protesters in order to escape. The cordon was intensified and BP vehicles were positioned on the road to foil his movement. The said terrorist sensing himself to be trapped, took position in the street and resorted heavy firing on the forces which caused bullet injuries to one SOG jawan namely Ct. Vikas Sharma and damage to mini forces vehicles. The fire was effectively retaliated by the joint forces and in the ensuing gun battle, one foreign terrorist of Lashkar-e-Taiba was killed. The Slain terrorists was Divisional Commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba namely Abu Musaib @ Musa @ Maaz A+ category terrorists. Arms/Ammunition recovered from the possession of the slain terrorists. Case FIR NO. 04/2017 U/S 307,148,149,336,353 RPC, 7/27 I.A Act stands registered at P.S. Hajin in this regard. Arms/ammunition recovered during the operation includes one AK-56 Rifle, 03 Nos of AK-56 Magazines(02 Damaged), 66 AK-56 live Cartridges, 03 Nos of Chinese Grenades and 01 Pouch.
In this operation, S/Shri Dawood Ayoub, Addl. Superintendent of Police, Gurdeep Singh, Inspector and Nisar Ahmad Dar, Head Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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. 136-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Jammu &Kashmir Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Farooq Ahmad Mantoo Head Constable
02. Reyaz Ahmad
SGCT910 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Based upon a specific intelligence input regarding presence of foreign terrorists in general area of Drusoo Rafiabad , Police Sopore in collaboration with 22-RR, contingents of 179, 177 & 92 Bn. CRPF launched a cordon and search operation at Village Drusoo Jageer, Rafiabad on 09-11-2016 at about 1500 hours. During search operation it was ascertained that terrorists are hiding in shrine of Sakhi Sarwar and are foreign terrorists, fully equipped with sophisticated weapon. As the civilians were busy in their fields adjacent to target area, there were apprehensions of collateral damages/civilian casualties.
Keeping in view circumstantial perspective, a joint team of Police/Army led by Shri Showkat Ahmad—KPS, No. 116067-KPS, Dy.SP(Ops), Sopore including HC Farooq Ahmad No. 24/Spr, PID No. 012574 & Sgct Reyaz_Ahmad, No. 2923/S, PID No. EXK-971469 was constituted and the evacuation process of civilians from the target area was started. The team in few attempts succeeded in complete evacuation of civilians. After evacuation process, target was further zeroed and hidden terrorists were asked to surrender, but they opened indiscriminate firing. However, the advance operational teams, included recommendees retaliated the fire effectively, which triggered a face to face firefight. The joint team of Police/Army including HC Farooq Ahmad & Sgct Reyaz Ahmad led by Shri Showkat Ahmad—KPS, Dy.SP (Ops) Sopore remained on forefront while fighting with the holed up terrorists. In the meantime, advance team which included recommendees started zeroing the target by advancing from all directions towards the target. Sensing noose around their neck, holed up terrorists came out from the Shrine showering bullets. However, the joint team led by Shri Showkat Ahmad, Dy.SP (Ops) Sopore including HC Farooq Ahmad & Sgct Reyaz Ahmad, exhibiting extra ordinary courage and bravery remained determinant and face to face gun battle culminated with the elimination of holed up terrorists later identified as Mustafa and Ali Rs/o Pak of LeT outfit. A huge cache of arms/ammunition was recovered from the encounter site and case FIR No.115/2016 U/S 7/25 A Act stands registered in PS Dangiwacha in this regard.
It is worth mentioning that the slain terrorists were active in the area since long and were involved in number of terrorist related incidents. They were also involved in luring the youth towards terrorist ranks.
During the entire operation Shri Showkat Ahmad, Dy.SP (Ops) Sopore , HC Farooq Ahmad & Sgct Reyaz Ahmad played a conspicuous role of bravery and ensured the safe evacuation of the innocent civilians. The officer exhibited the highest standards of leadership in a critical time and ensured that no collateral damage takes place. Besides providing operation command, by sheer amount of his professionalism, devotion to duty, leadership qualities showed rare bravery in such volatile situations.
In this operation, S/Shri Farooq Ahmad mantoo, Head Constable and Reyaz Ahmad, SGCT displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 09/11/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 137-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Maharashtra Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Shitalkumar Anilkumar Doijad
Police Sub Inspector 02. Harshad Baban Kale Police Sub Inspector 03. Prabhakar Rangaji Madavi Naik Police Constable 04. Mahesh Dattu Jakewar Police Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 10.01.2016, the Additional S.P. Bijapur Shri I.K.Elesela along with 79 police personnel arrived at S.P.S. Damrancha by Helicopter. As per the plan, on 11.01.2016 under the leadership of Shri Elesela, commandos belonging to Chattisgarh state and Special Operation Squad (C 60) set out from S.P.S. Damrancha. This party crossed over the river Indravati and proceeded through the forest areas of village Sandra, Gartul and Kokera. Another party headed by PSI Doijad along with P.S.I. Kale and Staff of S.P.S. Damrancha and commanods of Special Operation Squad aided by commandos ofPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 911 Chattisgarh State proceeded towards village Chintarveli and crossed the river Indravati. Thereafter, this party marched via Sandra, via Arepalli combing through the forest.
As these parties were patrolling in the forest, at around 1000 hrs. They were ambushed by armed naxalites belonging to National Park Area Committee. The naxalites opened indiscriminate fire at the police in order to kill them and thereafter snatch away their arms and ammunition. In self defence, the police retaliated by firing in the direction of naxalites. P.S.I. Doijad noticed some armed naxalited clad in olive green uniform carrying pittus on their back. Accordingly, he alerted P.S.I. Kale and at the same time opened the fire at these naxalites. His gallant act boosted the morale of other police men who were also with him and they too retaliated bravely. The additional S.P., Shri Elesela and P.C. Mallaya Pendam too noticed the naxalites and at once took position in the forest and then began to advance. But the naxalites opened a volley fire at them and compelled them to stick to their positions.
Since the party headed by additional S.P., Shri Elesela and Mallaya Pendam came under intense attack of naxalites, P.S.I. Doijad, PSI Kale, NPC/939 Prabhakar Madavi, PC/5413 Mahesh Jakkewar risking their lives rushed to the aid of Shri Elesela by opening counter attack to the naxalites. PSI Doijad gave cover fire to P.S.I. Kale as result P.S.I. Kale could reach to the additional S.P. The naxalites were heard calling aloud to their comrades by name Dilip, Rainu, Roshan, Mangu and asking them to surround the police and kill them. The police personnel appealed to the naxalites for surrender but they did not pay any heed. And the naxalites continued firing at the direction of police party.
P.S.I. Doijad, P.S.I. Kale, Prabhakar Madavi, Mahesh Jakkewar they all displayed extraordinary courage on the battle field. Because of their bravery and presence of mind in the midst of gun fire, the ambush laid by the naxalites could be broken and precious lives of other police men could be saved. The naxalites suffered a setback and began to retreat. The encounter between the police and the naxalites lasted for two hours and the naxalites fled away taking cover of dense forest. The Chattisgarh police fired 230 rounds and the Gadchiroli police fired 625 rounds in this encounter.
The sound of the gun fire from the direction of the naxalites having subsided, the police conducted a search of the above place of incident. During the search, the police recovered the following viz., Insas rifle-1, magazine-3, Burmar gun-1, steel container-1, battery sets-2, radio sets-1, pittus-6, 1 meter wire, wrist watch, naxal dangri, naxal literature, magazine box, etc. from the place of incident. Also, the police found two dead bodies of naxalites (including one woman naxalite) lying close to the above items.
In this operation, S/Shri Shitalkumar Anilkumar Doijad, Police Sub Inspector, Harshad Baban Kale, Police Sub Inspector, Prabhakar Rangaji Madavi, Naik Police Constable and Mahesh Dattu Jakewar, Police Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 11/01/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 138-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Maharashtra Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Ajitkumar Bhagvan Patil Police Sub Inspector
02. Tikaram Sampatary Katenge Naik Police Constable
03. Rajendra Shriram Tadami
Police Constable
04. Somnath Shrimant Pawar
Police Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 02/01/2017 at around 07.00 hrs in the evening, PSI Ajitkumar Patil along with party commander Tikaram Katenge and other 23 policemen set out from Gadchiroli for conducting an anti naxal operation in the forest of Wadgaon under sub division Kurkheda. They all reached village Kosmi and thereafter halted for the night in the nearby forest. From 03/01/2017 to 04/01/2017, the party conducted search operation in the forest of Kisneli, Wadgaon, Botezari, Harketola and then made night halt at the forest of Narkasa.
912 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1On 05/01/2017, while the police party was conducting anti naxal operation in the forest of Wadgaon, at around 1500 hrs, they were suddenly attacked by 10 to 12 armed naxalites. The naxalites had surrounded the group of policemen headed by party commander Tikaram Katenge and they were indiscriminately firing at them with an intention of snatching away arms and ammunition after having killed the policemen. Hence, PSI Ajitkumar Patil and his men took position on the ground and observed at the direction of assaults.
Upon which they were convinced that the attackers belonged to CPI (Maoist) group of naxalites which is a banned terrorist organization. Hearing the sound of gun fire, PSI Patil instructed the other policemen over the walkie-talkie sets namely Rajendra Tadami, Somnath Pawar to rush towards the direction of attackers also alongwith other policemen advanced to the direction of fire risking his lives. PSI Patil appealed to the naxalites loudly for surrendering before the police. The naxalites did not pay heed to the appeals and kept firing at the direction of police. The naxalites were heard telling among themselves "Pankaj, Soni and Madhu you people cover from right direction; Suraj and Kamli you two cover the police from left side: do not let go of the policemen; eliminate everybody." PSI Patil alongwith his men began to flank the naxalites from southern side and party commander Tikaram Katenge began to flank the naxalites from northern side by putting their own lives in great dangerous in the midst of firing and thus they could successfully retrieve the trapped policemen from the killing zone of naxalites. In such a fearful situation the policemen belonging to both the groups did not flinch back out of fear and countered the naxalites bravely. Thereafter, sensing mounting police pressure the naxalites retreated back into forest taking cover of hilly areas and thick forest. The encounter lasted for above 15 to 20 minutes.
After the firing had stopped coming from the direction of naxalites, PSI Patil gathered all the men at a place and enquired of them. PC Rajendra Tadami had received minor injury while the rest of the policemen were safe and unharmed. Then following proper SOP (Special Operating System) the police party conducted a search of the place of incident. During the search, one injured woman naxalite lying unconscious was found by the police. Also, one .303 rifle alongwith one magazine and sealing, three rounds of .303 rifle, one green colored pittu, naxal literature, etc. were recovered from the place of incident.
During the encounter the police party fired following quantity of ammunition viz. Ak-m-49 rounds, SLR-22 rounds and Insas rifle-03 rounds. The injured and unconscious woman naxalite alongwith the articles seized from the place of incident was placed in a mine protective vehicle (MPV) and carried to the general hospital, Gadchiroli for treatment. The medical officer examined the body of the woman naxalite and declared her to be dead.
In this encounter PSI Ajitkumar Bhagvan Patil, NPC Tikaram Katenge, PC Somnath Pawar and PC Rajendra Tadami all of them belonging to the Special Operation Squad (C-60) Gadchiroli have displayed extra ordinary courage and valour while fighting, the armed naxalites by putting their own lives into great danger. Because of the bravery, tactics and dedication towards their duty as shown by the above police personnel, one hardcore woman naxalite could be eliminate by the police.
In this operation, S/Shri Ajitkumar Bhagvan Patil, Police Sub Inspector, Tikaram Sampatray Katenge, Naik Police Constable, Rajendra Shriram Tadami, Police Constable and Somnath Shrimant Pawar, Police Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 05/01/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 139-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Meghalaya Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Vivekanand Singh, IPS (1st Bar to PMG)
SDPO
02. Gopison R Marak PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Shri Vivekanand Singh, IPS, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Dadenggre received a source information on 26th July 2015 morning, that six (6) suspected ASAK militants were camping at Darenchigre/Ganarugre jungle area and planning to abduct someone. The officer who was camping at Phulbari at that time immediately rushed to Tikrikilla Police Station along with Shri R. A. Sangma, CI Phulbari and team.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 913The operation team left Tikrikilla PS and as per plan, the cordon team under SI B. Hajong, O/C Tikrikilla PS cordoned the whole area to the extent possible. Simultaneously, the assault team consisting of Shri Vivekanand Singh, IPS, Inspector R A Sangma, ABC Gopison R Marak, ABC Simseng Marak, ABC Rakesh Prasad, ABC D Rabha along with Major Romi Singh and three other army personnel started moving towards the target location tactically and stealthily as it was broad daylight. The terrain was hilly with thick jungle and it was raining heavily. Shri Vivekanand Singh was leading the assault team with ABC/394 Gopison R Marak moving at No. 2 position. As the assault team moved towards the target,at about 4:30 PM Shri Vivekanand Singh, IPS saw around 5-6 heavily armed militants and immediately alerted the team to take cover. However, the sentry of the militant group, armed with automatic assault rifle who was hiding in thick jungle, saw him and suddenly opened indiscriminate fire. Both Shri Vivekanand Singh and Gopison R Marak did not flinch at the sudden fire but fired back and also ordered the assault team to return fire. Despite heavy exchange of fire Shri Vivekanand Singh and Gopison R Marak started moving towards the militants tactically and engaged them in an intense gun battle which lasted for over 10 minutes. Shri Vivekanand Singh and Gopison R Marak did not relent in facing the militants and kept on firing without least concern for personal safety. As a result, one dreaded militants named (L) Silseng D Sangma (27) S/o Monsu Sangma, R/o Nogorpara, PO-Hollaidanga, Dist-West Garo Hills, Meghalaya was neutralized on the spot. The deceased was a ASAK militant and had been a menace in the area for a very long time.The operation was executed extra-ordinarily without any injury or casualty to the Police personnel or public. The operation was meticulously planned and perfectly executed. Shri Vivekanand Singh, IPS, SDPO and Gopison R Marak showed extreme courage in face of danger to their life, and tactical skills during the operation.
In this operation, S/Shri Vivekanand Singh, IPS, SDPO and Gopison R Marak, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 26/07/2015.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 140-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 2nd Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Meghalaya Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. T C Chacko (2nd Bar to PMG)
Dupty Superintendent of Police
02. Tony M Sangma PMG
Sub-Inspector
03. Phil Dkhar PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Source information about the general location of the joint general camp/training camp of Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA)and United Liberation Front of Assarn (ULFA) deep inside the Durama Range was received on 05/04/2015. Accordingly a plan of action was drawn up to locate and destroy the camp. As per the reports received, there were about 90(ninety) cadres of the ULFA/GNLA undergoing training along with many new recruits of the GNLA outfit. One senior ULFA cadre by the name of Irian was reportedly present in the camp to oversee the training of its cadres.
Accordingly, a plan of action was drawn up in which a strong team comprising of SWAT personnel would enter from Durabanda and proceed towards the suspected location to seek and destroy the camp.
As per the plan a team of 43(forty three) SWAT personnel under the command of Shri T.C Chacko, MPS, Dy.SP, inducted at 11:30 pm on 06/04/2015. In order to keep the secrecy and surprise, the team inducted from Durabanda village, South Garo Hills' District, vertically climbing the Nokrek peak (Highest peak in Meghalaya) cross country and after traversing about 15(fifteen) hours cross country reached the suspected area. On reaching the area, the team heard sounds of people and tell-tale signs of camp nearby. Accordingly, a team under the leadership of SI Tony M Sangma was sent towards the western side of the suspected camp to cut off/flank the camp and another team approached the area from the eastern side. After moving ahead for a while it was realized that the attack party took a larger flank and there was a cliff between the camp and the attack party. Since it was day light and chances Of exposure was more in calling the party back to take a different914 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 route and to attack the militants from a direction which will drive them towards the cut off, the team commander with 2(two) SWAT boys dared to proceed from a different direction to the camp and taking cover of the two SWAT commandos who were behind him approached towards the camp. On reaching about 20 meters to the camp, a group of heavily armed militants consisting of both GNLA and ULFA opened fire at the approaching party. Shri T.C Chacko with the help of the covering party daringly retaliated killing one ULFA militant, identified later as (L) Rambilash Koch @ Kantrang @ Pijak s/o Panchat Koch of village Soraigaon, P.O. Rairnona, District-Kokrajhar (from the identity card recovered), and injuring a number of them. The entire militants numbering about 90(ninety) after a fierce gun battle fled towards the cut off party. Seeing police again there, the fleeing militants fired upon the police party under the leadership of SI Ronald Nongrum. SI Ronald Nongrum assisted by BNC/624 Phil Dkhar and others further attacked them from their positions daring the incessant firing from the militants and injured many of the militants.
One 7.65 mm pistol with 1(one) round in its chamber and 3(three) rounds in the magazine in a cocked condition was recovered from the slain ULFA militant. On search of the area various items including IED, wireless sets etc were recovered and seized. Apart from the items seized many other items like 90(ninety) Nos. of back packs, camouflage dresses, 70(seventy) Nos. of dummy rifles used for training, many bags of rice, blankets, magazine pouches, clothing, personnel belongings, cooking utensils, generator set etc. and 12(twelve) huts/barracks spread over in an area of about 1 (one) square kilometres were also discovered and destroyed.
Later on, it was confirmed from both technical and human intelligence that 3(three) more injured militants died in the jungle and many of them suffered serious injuries.
In this operation, S/Shri T C Chacko, Dupty Superintendent of Police, Tony M Sangma, Sub-Inspector and Phil Dkhar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 06/04/2015.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 141-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Odisha Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Niranjan Sahu PMG
Addl. Superintendent of Police
02. Umesh Kumar Singh PMG
Sub-Inspector
03. Haribandhu Kirsani PMG
Constable
04. Bhisma Karuan PMG
Constable
05. Samanta Majhi (1st Bar to PMG)
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 11.04.2017, reliable information received regarding criminal conspiracy of members of banned CPI(Maoist) organization of Koraput Division in Dhayagurha forest area under highly Maoist infested Narayanpatna, Koraput District, to blast and destroy the State Highway connecting Laxmipur to Parvatipuram targeting to kill the security forces moving on this road by blasting of IEDs.
On intervening night of 11-12.04.2017, DVF and SOG small team No. 04 under the leadership of Sri Niranjan Sahu, Addl. S.P Operation, Koraput was sent for an anti-Maoist operation to apprehend the banned organization. When the team reached the forest area, the armed Maoists resorted to sudden unprovoked firing from automatic weapons and mounted a flanking attack, making the police team vulnerable heavy fire from different directions and hurled grenades causing injuries to two SOG commandos Bhisma Karuan and Samanta Majhi. Unwavered by the firing, the team under leadership of NiranjanPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 915 Sahu, Addl. S.P Operation retaliated valiantly despite numerical disadvantage and severe terrain limitations with total disregard to personal safety. Niranjan Sahu, Addl. S.P Operation along with commando Haribandhu Kirsani charged the Maoists in a very risky frontal attack braving heavy fire and forced the Maoist to retreat. Another small team consisting of SI(A) Umesh Kumar Singh, Bhisma Karuan, Samanta Majhi, countered by a flanking attack from the right side and fearlessly took on the Maoist. Team leader Niranjan Sahu, Addl. S.P Operation, Koraput and four commandos rose to the occasion against overwhelming odds and put on an inspiring fight against a numerically superior and tactically better placed enemy. Their act led to the death of one lady Maoist cadre Padma @ Kantamani Hereka (ACM) of Nandapur Area Committee of Koraput Division and recovery of Live IEDs-2,SBBL Gun-1, SBML Gun-1, Detonator-3, Walkie talkie-1 and other camp items. On 12.05.2017 two ACM ranked hardcore Maoists of same EOF group, Sonu and Divya of Koraput Division surrendered before Koraput police. During interrogation, Sonu revealed that other than Padma @ Kantamani Hereka (ACM) one more lady Maoist namely Tuburi Mandangi (ACM) of Koraput Division had also died in the same EOF.
The brave and valiant act wrecked havoc in the enemy lines neutralized two lady Maoist cadres and also thwarted the evil designs of the Maoists and prevented a major violent incident.
In this operation, S/Shri Niranjan Sahu, Addl. Superintendent of Police, Umesh Kumar Singh, Sub-Inspector, Haribandhu Kirsani, Constable, Bhisma Karuan, Constable and Samanta Majhi, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 12.04.2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 142-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Odisha Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Rakesh Kumar Swain
Constable
02. Ajay Behera
Constable
03. Jyoti Kumar Kiro
Sergeant
04. Soumya Ranjan Dash
Dy. Subedar
05. Dhaneswar Majhi
Constable
06. Bhakta Priya Sahoo
Havildar
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 15.09.2016 based on a reliable and real-time intelligence input of Sh. Dhaneswar Majhi, Ct who put his life in sake and remain at Jungle and nearby areas on the previous night to confirm the intelligence, and in the early morning Sh. Dhaneswar Majhi confirmed the presence of a group of armed cadres of banned CP.I.(Maoist) at Phulbari Reserve Forest near village Katlang under Bijepur PS, Dist: Kalahandi having definite plans plans of violent activities like killing innocent civilians, target SFs etc, and to spread terror and war against the state. An anti naxal operation was planned and launched by the SP, Kalahandi with teams of SOG Small team No. 02 and Special Operation Group (SOG) AT-02 under the leadership of Jyoti Kumar Kiro, Sergent of Police and Soumya Ranjan Dash, Deputy Subedar to apprehend the banned Maoist cadres. Given the treacherous lay out of the terrain and desperation of the plan chalked out, Sh. Dhaneswar Majhi, Ct lead the team from the front as scout to make the SOG teams reached at a nearest dominating position. 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 in which five policeman sustained bodily injuries. Sh.Rakesh Kumar Swain, Ct and Ajay Behera, Ct despite their bodily injury and916 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 numerical disadvantage tactically moved very closer to Maoist group at the risk of their lives umwavered by the heavy firing from Maoist side and retaliated valianty to counter the Maoist which facilitated the police party to take safe cover position. Sh. Jyoti Kumar Kiro, Sh. Soumya Ranjan Dash, Sh. Dhaneswar Majhi and Sh. Bhakta Priya Sahoo, Hav also moved forward closer to Maoist group putting their lives at risk and fired to counter them. The all recommendee, thus, fearlessly charged the enemy in a very risky frontal attack forcing them to escape. Because of their gallant action one uniformed female Maoist cadre subsequently identified as Sangita of Bansadhara-Ghumsar-Nagabali-Division was neutralized with recovery of SLR, 01, Insas Rifle-1,.303 Rifle-2, 12 bore broken Rifle-01, 2 live rounds of SLR,06 live rounds of Insas, 06 rounds of .0303 Rifle, 10 Haversakes, 1 walky talky, Maoist literature, documents and other camp articles etc.
In this operation, S/Shri Rakesh Kumar Swain, Constable, Ajay Behera, Constable, Jyoti Kumar Kiro, Sergeant, Soumya Ranjan Dash, Dy. Subedar, Dhaneswar Majhi, Constable and Bhakta Priya Sahoo, Havildar displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 15.09.2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 143-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Punjab Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Kuldeep Singh, IPS Addl. Superintendent of Police
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Shri Kuldeep Singh, IPS (Punjab:—2009), while posted as Assistant Superintendent of Police, City-11 & Traffic in district Bathinda in 2012 displayed conspicuous gallantry in a day light live encounter with a dreaded gangster in which the gangster with 11 criminal cases against him got killed in an exchange of fire.
On the evening of 06.09.2012, on receiving an information o wireless from SHO, PS Bathinda Cantt. That a white coloured Fortuner car no. PB-31-k-0045 was roaming in the city under suspicious circumstances, Sh. Kuldeep Singh went alongwith his police party (gunmen sr. const. Jagsir Singh no. 519, const. Jaskaran Singh no. 1187, HC Harvans Singh , no.1115) in his official car no. PB-76-P-4223, being driven by HC Rajinder Singh no. 165/LDH for a lookout. At about 7 PM, the party on reaching Kamla Nehru Colony located the vehicle. A young man on the driver's seat was accompanied by a girl on the left front seat. On seeing the police party, they tried to flee in the vehicle, but were blocked from the front by the police vehicle. At this, the girl shouted "open fire" and "get the car out". The man started firing at the police party led by the ASP with an intention to kill them. On being fired at, Sh. Kuldeep Singh jumped out of his vehicle and organized the response of the police team. He did not care for his life as during the exchange of fire, one of the bullets missed the officer by a whisker and he escaped narrowly. Sh. Kuldeep Singh fired back at the suspected criminal who got injured. The suspected criminal was identified as one Gurshahid Singh @ Shera S/O Jarnail Singh, r/o Khumban Bahaw wala, district Fazilka, a dreaded gangster and his companion as one Namdeek Kaur, r/o Malout City, district Sri Muktsar Sahib. Gurshahid Singh was rushed to civil Hospital, Bathinda where he succumbed to the injuries sustained in the encounter. Two rounds were fired by Sh. Kuldeep Singh, ASP to neutralize the criminal and in the process he narrowly escaped the barrage of bullets at him by the criminal and thus committed an act of utmost bravery and commitment towards his duty.
It is pertinent to point out that at the time of the encounter, the recommendee Shri Kuldeep Chahal was young IPS officers in the rank of ASP with little over 2 years of service and he, with a few personal security officers immediately rushed to respond to a wireless call of his SHO, and faced a dreaded and top gangster without flinching in a manner which shows utmost devotion to duty.
Gurshahid Singh @ Shera was involved in as many as 11 FIRs which included murder of a top gangster Happy deora on suspicion of passing information to the police resulting in beginning of a gang war between rival gangsters in Punjab : murder of one Sadaugar Singh who was a witness in a court case against Shera; murder of Nishan Singh due to election-related enmity; snatching of fortuner car from well-known Punjabi Singer Jazzy Bains ; extortion and demand of ransom of Rs. 30 lakh from one Sandeep Singh ; kidnapping for ransom, inflicting injury and extraction of ransom of Rs. 10 lakh from Hardeep Singh @ Jolly, involved in cricket betting; kidnapping of a person and snatching car at gun point ; snatching of Pajero car & Innova cars as well.
A case FIR no. 83 dated 06-09-2012 u/s 307/34 IPC 25 Arms act was registered in police station Bathinda cant. Against Gurshahid Singh @ Shera and Namdeek Kaur; one 09 mm pistol (Glock) with 4 live cartridges, 4 empty cartridges and one stolen Fortuner car were recovered from the spot. Gurshahid Singh @ Shera was involved in eleven criminal cases.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 917This encounter has withstood legal, magisterial and judicial scrutiny. Magisterial inquiry conducted by the additional Deputy Commissioner (General), Bathinda did not find any wrong doing on part of the police. A Civil writ petition no. 24439 of 2012 filed in the Hon'ble Punjab and Haryana High Court has been disposed off vide order dated 24-12-2015 in favour of the State. Namdeek Kaur, the companion of Gurshahid Singh @ Shera and his co-accused has been convicted in case FIR no. 83 of 2012 registered in police station Bathinda cant. And awarded rigorous imprisonment of four year and six months and fine of Rs. 3000/-. Moreover, the National Human rights commission has also upheld the action by the police party and relevant portion of the order of the NHRC is reproduced hereunder:—
"The police team was lead by an IPS officer. All the firearm injuries received by the Gurshahid Singh Shera on the lower part of the body. This indicates that the police did not had intention to kill him. Forensic report further show that deceased Gurshahid Singh opened fire from the 9 mm pistol, considering these facts were inclined to believe the police version of incident. It appears that the police had to shoot at Gurshahid Singh in exercise of self defence."
It is pertinent to mention here that at the time incident a large number of civilians were present at the spot and the quick police response did not allow any harm to come to the general public.
Shri Kuldeep Singh, IPS Assistant Superintendent of Police, while carrying out his duty, displayed immense courage and leadership. He led his men from the front without caring for his & inspite of coming under volley of fire from the criminal, retaliated back and killed the criminal, thus showing exemplary courage, bravery and conviction towards his duty. His swift action saved his men's life after being fired upon, and also prevented loss of life of general public. He has an unblemished and blotless career of more than four years. His work is accordance with the highest traditions of police services and is praise-worthy and deserves recognition of the highest order for showing tremendous courage, quick response, high sense of dedication of duty, highest quality of leadership at grave risk of his personal life. Sh. Kuldeep Singh, IPS, the then Assistant Superintendent of police (now SSP, Hoshiarpur) is strongly recommended for the award of Police Medal for Gallantry" for his courageous and brave act.
In this operation, S/Shri Kuldeep Singh, IPS, Addl. Superintendent of Police displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 06/09/2012.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 144-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Uttar Pradesh Police:—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Laxmi Niwas Mishra Dupty Superintendent of Police
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 18.04.2012, Shri Jogendra Kumar, SP Mau received information about the police encounter of SOG with notorious and rewarded criminal Dheeraj Singh in village Karmi Mathia, within the jurisdiction of PS Chirrayakot, immediately, sprung into action and rushed to the site. criminal Dheeraj and his companion, had forcibly entered in the house of Ramji Barnwal, in Karmi Mathia and brutally killed him and hostaged his 05 years child and were incessantly firing towards the police party and Shri Govind Singh, Inspector/SHO Kotwali City Mau, in the mean time, who arrived there and leading the police team, strategically challenged the criminals-duo and without caring for his life and limb, displaying conspicuous gallant act of bravery, moved ahead, with controlled firing, to arrest them alive, but in indiscriminate firing by the criminals, he was seriously injured, who was promptly, rushed to hospital for treatment, who later died.
S.P.Mau arrived there with reinforcement, after that Shri Vijay Singh Meena, S.P.Azamgarh also reached there and challenged the criminals to surrender, but criminals dared to continue incessant firing, more violently, towards them, with an intention to kill. SP Mau, SP Azamgarh, Shri Laxmi Niwas Mishra, CO city Mau, Shri Bind Kumar SI, Shri Shashi Bhushan Rai, SI and Shri Ashok Kumar Singh, HCAP undeterred of dangerous firing offensive of criminals-duo, strategically, counter attacked them with teargas, causing one of the criminal, coming out of the house, firing, incessantly and violently, towards the police party and in this situation of 'do or die', police team with indomitable courage and in utter disregard of their personal safety and security and with determination to arrest the criminal, alive, challenged him, to surrender and fearlessly moved ahead, in front of him, resorting controlled firing in self-defence and the criminal fell injured.
918 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1The police team with an objective to rescue the hostage child and capture the criminal, alive, who was terribly firing towards the police party, from inside the house, dauntlessly led the attack, themselves and police team, continuing performance of conspicuous gallant and sense of dedication towards their duty, in most unmistakable terms, without caring for their life and limb, immediately, barged in the house and ensuring the safety of hostage child, resorted restricted firing and criminal fell down, injured and the hostage child was successfully rescued. Both the criminal were later declared to be dead and identified as notorious criminal Dheeraj and Vikas.
Shri Jogendra Kumar SP, Shri Vijay Singh Meena SP, Shri Laxmi Niwas Mishra CO city, Shri Govind Singh Inspector CP, Shri Bind Kumar SICP, Shri Shashi Bhushan Rai SICP and Shri Ashok Kumar Singh HCAP have exhibited exceptional courage, conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in this encounter.
In this operation, S/Shri Laxmi Niwas Mishra, Dupty Superintendent of Police displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 18/04/2012.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 145-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Border Security Force (BSF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Raj Kumar Assistant Commandant
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On receipt of information through local source about hiding of militants, in general area Hamkhal, a thick forest area, who were planning to attack on security forces and return to same forest area as that hide out was at dominating ground and provided good cover for hiding, Shri Raj Kumar, AC, Coy Comdr `D' Coy shared the info with Commandant of the unit and launched an operation on 26th June 2002 at about 0815 hrs. Shri Raj Kumar, AC, took assistance from a column of 44 RR which was already in the area for familiarization and asked them to cover different route to thwart the militants from escaping the cordon of the Dhoks of Hamkhal. While clearing the area, ops party observed some suspicious movement of a persons in one of the Dhoks. Immediately, Shri Raj Kumar, AC appreciated the situation and directed the party to lay siege. Thereafter, two more suspected militants come out of the Dhok and all three opened heavy volume of fire and fled towards nearby nallah under the cover of fire. Ops party retaliated fire but militants managed sneak through nallah.
Shri Raj Kumar, AC alongwith CT Khudiram, CT M M Shah and CT Shiv Charan chased the militants and crossed the nallah. Militants got into the thick forest and wild growth and started firing heavily towards the party. Shri Raj Kumar, AC alongwith his party took positions and without caring for the life retaliated in natural alignment. Resultantly, one of the militant sustained bullet injuries. Shri Raj Kumar, AC directed CT Khudiram & CT M M Shah to provide supporting fire and Shri Raj Kumar, AC alongwith CT Shiv Charan took detour and occupied a position higher than the injured militant who was purposely positioned by his fellow militants on the high ground so as to engage Ops party and prevent them from making further hot pursuit. The injured militant was continuously firing on the Ops party.
Shri Raj Kumar, AC and CT Shiv Charan after occupying position on the higher stretch, rolled down through boulders and thick growth. The injured militant observed the movement and fired heavily on Shri Raj Kumar, AC, who had a miraculous escape. Shri Raj Kumar, AC, wasting no further opportunity charged on the militant. Had he not done so in time, the militant would have effectively fired upon the other party and inflicted heavy casualties. As per drill Const Shiv Charan fired in the direction to pin down the militant and Sh Raj Kumar, AC continued his charge and killed the militant in close quarter battle. A daring and valiant action by the officer resulted in eliminating a hard core militant who was subsequently identified as Omar Mukhtar Wani R/o Arwani, Distt-Kulgam, Srinagar, a Pak trained Militant of HM outfit who was a terror in the area. The following Arms and Amn were recovered from his possession:—
| a. | AK 47 Rifle | 01 No |
| b. | AK Mag | 02 Nos. |
| c. | AK Amn | 50 Rds. |
| d. | EFCs | 05 Rds. |
| e. | Wireless Set | 01 No |
| f. | Antenna | 01 No |
| g. | Grenade (Chinese) | 01 No |
| h. | Indian Currency | Rs. 2030/- |
| i. | Wrist watch | 01 No |
In this operation, S/Shri Raj Kumar, Assistant Commandant displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 26/06/2002.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 146-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Border Security Force (BSF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Vikas Kunwar
Second-In-Command
02. Narendra Kumar
Assistant Sub-Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
35 Bn BSF is deployed in one of the most hyper sensitive Naxal affected area of Chhattisgarh, wherein major portion of area of operation of the unit is extremely difficult due to tough terrain and conducting operations in this area is extremely challenging in itself. The general surrounding area of Village Gome and Gattakal (POO) is extremely notorious because of the presence of Maoists due to its geographical terrain.
On 10th Nov 2016, an Aggressive Ops was launched after detailed analysis of available input under direction of Sh Vikas Kunwar, Second-In-Command in the general area of Gome and Gattakal. The area is notorious for presence of Naxals, as it consists of thick forest and hillocks, provides good cover and ideal hideouts for them. The officer assessed the threats, took safety measures with meticulous ops planning, tasked every element and conducted the joint operation as a part of aggressive ops comprising of 08 teams of various units including team of COB Koyalibeda in an effective manner. At about 1740 hrs, the team led by Sh Vikas Kunwar, Second-In-Command, alongwith ASI Narender Kumar came under heavy volume of fire from Naxals, who were hiding in the forest and had taken position to ambush the moving BSF party. The BSF Party, after identifying the direction of fire, immediately took position behind the small boulders and undulating ground of the forest and started retaliating the fire in self-defence. Sh Vikas Kunwar, Second-in-Command after identifying the position of Naxals controlled the fire of BSF troops and alongwith ASI Narender Kumar, moved tactically without caring for their lives amidst heavy fire of naxals. The supporting fire was given by the other team members as per his direction. In accordance with the tactics of fire and move and observing professional discipline under continuous threat to their lives, both of them reached very close to the position where Naxals were firing on the BSF team.
With this gallant and prompt move, maintaining fire discipline and adopting fire and move tactics, Sh Vikas Kunwar, Second-In-Command and ASI Narender Kumar surprised Naxals and brought effective fire on them, as a result they were forced to flee away leaving behind their arms and other stores. During subsequent search, dead body of one un- identified Naxal alongwith 03 Nos of Gun (Bharamar) weapons were recovered. The deceased was later identified by Chhattisgarh Police as Sobi Kowachi, a wanted maoist, S/o Ram Singh, Viii-Gattakal, PS Koyalibeda Distt-Kanker (CG).
Shri Vikas Kumar, 2IC and ASI Narender Kumar displayed outstanding bravery, commendable leadership traits, high standard of initiative and professional approach during the operation which resulted into killing of one Hardcore Maoist, recovery of 03 SMBL (Bharmar) Gun and other items and compelled other Maoists to leave their positions and flee away to save their lives. The successful and result-oriented operation is an example of unparalleled gallant action coupled with high standard of leadership and co-ordination. This not only brought good name to the Battalion but also to the Border Security Force.
920 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1In this operation, S/Shri Vikas Kunwar, Second-In-Command and Narender Kumar, Asst. Sub-Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 10/11/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 147-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Border Security Force (BSF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Baljit Singh Kasana (1st BAR to PMG)
Dupty Inspector General
02. Mukesh Kumar Choudhary PMG
Constable
03. Yudhvir Yadav PMG
Assistant Commandant
04. Surjeet Singh Poonia PMG
Assistant Sub-Inspector
05. Om Prakash PMG
Assistant Sub-Inspector
06. Paras Ram PMG
Constable
07. Bivas Batabyal PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 28th Nov 2016, at around 2330 hrs, HHTI of Naka Mound No. 12 of BOP Fatwal spotted the movements of 03 militants at a distance of approx. 40 mtrs on the home side of border fence in alignment of BP No. 45. The matter was immediately reported to the Coy Comdr Shri Yudhvir Yadav, AC, who after getting the information took stock of the overall situation and laid a cordon around the location of the militants with the help of forward & depth naka troops and available manpower at the BOP Chamliyal. Sh Yudhvir Yadav kept the movement of militants under regular watch through out night with the help of HHTIs and NVDs. In this regard, the information was also passed to Bn HQ and further to Shri Baljit Singh Kasana, DIG SHQ Jammu and also to Shri D K Upadhayaya, IG Jammu Ftr who immediately left for the place of occurrence to supervise and coordinate the operation. On the direction of the DIG, the flanking Coys were asked to send reinforcements for laying outer cordon/stops.
At around 0130 hrs, after effective deployment of inner & outer cordon/stops, Shri Yudhvir Yadav, AC directed to fire Para Bombs of 51 mm Mor in the direction of the militants, hiding in the fields, who opened heavy volume of fire by automatic weapons and also lobbed grenades towards inner cordon party realizing that they had been spotted and cordoned off, which was retaliated effectively. Sh Yudhvir Yadav, AC kept a regular vigil on militants through NVDs, which did not allow them to escape. After reaching at BOP Fatwal, Sh B S Kasana, DIG took stock of the situation and started coordinating the spl ops, kept on tracking the movements of the militants till first light when 03 militants got holed up in a tubewell (Bamby). Sh Kasana planned engagement of the target by coordinating the fire plan and went ahead towards the target. At about 0650 hrs, the terrorist, made final bid to escape by carrying out heavy firing on Naka No. 8 and party of Sh Yudhbir Yadav, AC supported with heavy volume of UMG firing and Mortar shelling from Pak rangers at own troops, to divert focus from the target. No. 876440403 ASI Om Prakash deployed at Mound No. 8, with scant regard to his personal safety, by displaying combat audacity and exemplary courage under trying conditions promptly retaliated the fire befittingly and injured/killed one of militants. As a result the militants were effectively pinned down. Meanwhile, in the ongoing exchange of fire, Shri Kasana by adopting fire and move tactic, who was leading from the front moved along with the dets of AGL, MMG, Sniper, RL and AMR under heavy militant firing, deployed the weapons at forward position in order to bring down accurate & effective fire on the militants. On the directions of Shri Kasana, Ct Paras Ram by displaying exemplary courage coupled with sheer professionalism grit and bravery under trying conditions accurately fired with AMR and silenced the gunsPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 921 of militants which gave a cushion to main party to reorganize in which ASI Surjeet Singh Bishnoi with AK 47, Const. Mukesh Kumar Choudhary with AMR, Const. Paras Ram with 12.7 Barret Sniper Rifle and Const. Bivas Batbyal with RL without caring for their personal safety engaged the militants, hiding in the general area of tube well & trees groves and displayed steel nerves and combat sense under direct militant firing. However, holed up militants did not come out. Thereafter Sh Kasana, asked for MMG and moved alongwith MMG party comprising of HC Mukesh Kumar Choudhary, Bibas Batbyal, Ct Paras Ram & others by displaying sheer professionalism, grit and bravery under trying conditions by adopting fire & move tactics to the closest location and brought effective fire of MMG, resultantly one side of tube well wall was broken. He further moved alongwith party to another hay static location by adopting fire & move tactics, and in the display of exemplary courage reached close to the holed up militants and fired heavy volume of fire from MMG which finally broke another wall of tube well. At about 1100 hrs, Sh Kasana, and Sh Yudhvir Yadav, AC alongwith ASI(GD) Surjit Singh Bisnoi & respective parties without caring for their lives reached near tube well tactically through Casper vehicle.
Sh Kasana alongwith ASI(GD) Surjit Singh Bishnoi came out of Casper vehicle by displaying combat audacity and exemplary courage advanced towards the target & lobbed grenades. To ensure that militants had been killed Sh Kasana sprayed bullets by AK Rifle and busted the hideout and found few militants lying on the ground.
During the whole operation, Sh D K Upadhyay, IG BSF, Jammu kept on guiding the operational parties for achieving the success without any harm to own troops. Resultantly, 03 dead bodies of heavily armed terrorists suspected to be of LeT as per recent input by DC(G) lndeshwar Nagar, were recovered. Sh D K Upadhyay, IG BSF, Jammu Ftr directed to search the dead body and site of incident in a careful manner. During search, three militants were found killed with heavy quantity of Arm/Amn/GPS/Radio Sets/IEDs etc. While the dead body and site of incident were being searched, Pakistan started heavy firing and Mortar shelling across the border through nearby post, due to which Sh B S Kasana, DIG BSF Jammu, ASI Om Prakash, Ct Mukesh Kumar Choudhary, Ct Parasram and Ct Bivas Batabyal received multiple bullet & splinter injuries and immediately evacuated to 166 MH Satwari for further management.
During search Ak 47 Rifle-03 Nos, Ak 47 Rifle Magazine-20 Nos, Ak 47 Ammunition-517 Rds, Empty Fire Case Ak 47-09 Nos, Empty fire case Big Size-01 no, Pistol-01 No, Pistol Magazine--01 No, Pistol Ammunition-16 Rds, Grenades- 31 Nos, IED All Types-10 Nos, Fidayeen Jackets & Belts-02 Nos, Wireless Set-02 Nos, Knives-02 Nos, Wire Cutter-01 No, Torch-02 Nos,,Hand Gloves-02 Pair, Rechargeable Cells-16 Nos, Dairy Milk Chocolates-03 Nos, First Aid Kit-03 Nos, Power Bank-02 Nos, Shoes Leather/Plastic-04 Pair, Dry Fruit-05 Pkt, Indian Army Uniform-02 Pair, Rucksacks-03 Nos, Jacket-02 Nos, First Aid Kit-03 Nos, Power Bank-02. Nos, Indian Army Patka Duplicate-02 Nos, Mobile-01 No, Diff Coloured Liquid In Bottle-03 Nos, Lighter-02 Nos, Hand Cuff (Plastic)-10 Nos, GPS-01 Nos, Monocular-01 Nos has been recovered from site of incident.
The entire operation was conducted in epitome of professional & exemplary manner under the direct and able leadership of Sh B S Kasana DIG Jammu, who was ably assisted by Sh Yudhvir Yadav, AC Coy Comdr. In the entire operation ASI Surjit Bishnoi, ASI Om Prakash, Const Parsa Ram, Const Bivas Batbyal and Const Mukesh Kumar Choudhary also played key role in effectively neutralizing heavily armed Lasker-e-Toiba (LeT).
In this operation, S/Shri Baljit Singh Kasana, Deputy Inspector General, Mukesh Kumar Choudhary, Constable, Yudhvir Yadav, Asst. Commandant, Surjeet Singh Bishnoi, Asst. Sub-Inspector, Om Prakash, Asst. Sub-Inspector, Paras Ram, Constable and Bivas Batabyal, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 29/11/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 148-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Gufran Ahmad
Assistant Commandant
02. Awdhesh Kumar Suman
Sub-Inspector
03. Nagendra Prasad
Head Constable922 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 04. Chemail Singh
Head Constable
05. Maniranjan Singh
Constable
06. Patil Pravin Dinkar
Constable
07. Romen Lambal Mayum
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Based on the specific information regarding presence of top Maoist leaders including Abhijeet Yadav, Arvind Bhuiyan, Murad, Bihari, Sandeep jee with 50-60 Maoist, a Search and Destroy Operation was planned in forest area of Village Bhaluahi, Gopaldera, Morma, Kachnar, Chhuchiya and Dulare under PS Dhibra and Dumariya, Distt. Aurangabad/Gaya. Accordingly, troops comprising of 2 teams of 205 CoBRA, Team No. 8 of C/205 CoBRA under command of Shri Chandan Kumar, AC and Team No. 6 of B/205 CoBRA under command of Shri Gufran Ahmad, AC and state Police under overall command of Sh. Chandan Kumar, AC, moved out for operation in the above said area on 07/01/2016 from 1215 Hrs. As per Ops Plan troops assembled at CRPF camp of 153 BN, at Bhaluahi at approx. 1445 hrs on the same day and moved ahead towards the main area of operation taking advantage of thick vegetation and adopted less approachable route to enter into the jungle in order to maintain utmost surprise and secrecy. The teams took LUP at a safe location in the night of 07/01/2016.
On 08/01/2016, while troops were wending through the jungles to spot the Maoists, at around 1715 hrs CT/GD Amarnath Mishra saw smoke rising at a place about 800-900 meters away, a possible indication of Maoists presence being engaged in cooking/hand warming due to cold weather. Scout observed carefully and immediately informed the commanders about the scene. Both the commanders alerted the troops through field signals keeping probable danger ahead in mind. Both the team commanders chalked out a plan with their team members and briefed them about the prevailing situation with direction to remain cautious/alert as encounter may took place at any point of time. During movement when troops reached nearby suspected area, they observed some noises/suspicious activity and billows of smoke coming out from some distance. As per the instant plan, to have a flanking approach, both teams bifurcated and advanced stealthily towards the target area. When the teams were fast on their way, though still treaded cautiously to avoid getting noticed, Sh. Chandan Kumar, AC, directed his Scouts CTs/GD Patil Pravin D. and Amarnath Mishra to ascend the hillock in the front. During the advance, the sentry of the Maoists sensed the presence of SFs and instantly opened indiscriminate fire on the troops followed by heavy fire from multiple direction using sophisticated automatic weapons by the Maoists. Troops immediately took position and challenged Maoists to surrender before them, but they did not pay heed to it rather intensified the volley of fire on the troops.
Sh. Chandan Kumar, AC ordered SI/GD Awdhesh Kumar Suman to cover the right flanks of Maoists whereas he along with his commandos CT/GD Amarnath Mishra, Maniranjan Singh, Patil Pravin D., HC/GD Chemail Singh and SI Aditya Kumar, SHO (PS:Dhibra) advanced towards front taking scantily available cover of stones and undulating ground. Meanwhile, HC/GD Nagendra Prasad; taking an initiative amidst heavy firing by Maoists in obedience to and protecting the constitutional law, again challenged the Maoists to surrender before them but they continued with even more indiscriminate firing on the troops one of which pierced through his right shoulder. On seeing no way out, troops retaliated the Maoists firing. HC/GD Nagendra Prasad in spite of the bullet injury fired back on Maoist location and gave them heavy blow which suppressed their firing. In the meantime first-aid was given to HC/GD Nagendra Prasad at the spot only.
CT/GD Maniranjan Singh, Patil Pravin D. and HC/GD Chemail Singh showed true grit and shouldered the responsibility entrusted into them by the commander to counter the Maoists firing. They, ignoring heavy fire and despite insufficient cover available; crawled, advanced and fired from different positions to make it more effective without caring for their own safety to neutralize the Maoists. Even the bruises and cuts due to thorny bushes, rocky ground and splinters could not deter their courage and enthusiasm. The masculinity and unparallel bravery shown by CT/GD Maniranjan Singh, Patil Pravin D. and HC/GD Chemail Singh surprised the Maoists as they were badly hit by their firing. Their maneuverability forced the Maoists to escape in small groups in different directions. Due to above, a group of Maoists shifted towards right flank where SI/GD Awadhesh Kumar Suman had taken position. Sh. Gufran Ahmad, AC , who, along with their troops was further right to SI/GD Awadhesh Kumar Suman, closed in from the right flank to augment and support SI/GD Awadhesh Kumar Suman and his team.
Shri Gufran Ahmad, AC and SI/GD Awadhesh Kumar Suman ferociously attacked on Maoists position by their precised firing. In such panic situation, Maoists, to revenge their losses counter attacked on the troops with heavy volume of fire. They showered bullets upon the troops using sophisticated automatic weapon. To overcome from the fatal situation, Sh.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 923Gufran Ahmad, AC displayed his tactical acumen and directed CT/GD Romen Lambal Mayum to fire UBGL on Maoist position. CT/GD Romen Lambal Mayum crawled and advanced amidst the tide of bullets raining from Maoists' barrels towards a small bracket of boulders to occupy a tactical position for putting accurate fire of UBGL. Sh. Gufran Ahmad, AC gave mutual support by covering fire to CT/GD Romen Lambal Mayum and he complied with his commander's orders in letter and spirit. In this process not only Sh. Gufran Ahmad, AC fired precisely on Maoists, but also the UBGL shell fired by CT/GD Romen Lambal Mayum also landed at the right spot and thus both of them inflicted fatal damages to the advancing Maoists group.
Despite insufficient cover available and heavy fire coming from Maoists, troops continued their advance decisively to cordon the fleeing Maoists from right flank. The mighty counter attack and fearless approach of the troops left Maoist devastated. They fled away to save their lives with their injured cadres. They were decimated badly as they left behind bodies of their dead cadres which generally they don't. Encounter lasted for approx 35-40 minutes.
The encounter site/area was searched thoroughly on first light of 09/01/2016. During search 04 dead bodies of Maoists identified as RAJIV YADAV @ BIHARI (Regional Committee Member), RAMRATAN YADAV @ JAGDISH JI @ JAYANT YADAV (Zonal Commander) , DEVKI BHARTI (Area Commander) and BIRENDRA@ RAVINDRA BHOKTA (Fighting Cadre) were recovered from the encounter site. Besides, a huge cache of arms/ammunitions including AK-47 Assault rifle-1 No. Carbine-1, 303 Rifle-2 and other incriminating items, were also recovered from encounter site.
During the operation troops showed great tactical skill, synergy, enthusiasm, operational appreciation and above all how to respond properly in such a difficult situation.
In this operation, S/Shri Gufran Ahmad, Asst. Commandant, Awdhesh Kumar Suman, Sub-Inspector, Nagendra Prasad, Head Constable, Chemail Singh, Head Constable, Maniranjan Singh, Constable, Patil Pravin Dinkar, Constable and Romen Lambal Mayum, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 08/01/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 149-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Gaurav Kumar Balyan Assistant Commandant
02. Pawan Kumar Trigunayat
Assistant Commandant
03. Vikram Paul
Constable
04. A Bairavan Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 13 Dec 2016, on receipt of a reliable intelligence input about the presence of dreaded foreign terrorist Abu Bakar, Divisional Commander, LeT, a joint operation was planned by Special Operations Group (SOG), J&K Police and CRPF. Accordingly, two teams, first team consisting of Range Quick Action Team (QAT) North Kashmir Operational Range (NKOR), under command Shri Pawan Kumar Trigunayat, Asstt. Comdt, and SOG, JKP and the second team consisting of E/179, under command Shri Gaurav Kumar Balyan, Asstt. Comdt, 179 Bn and SOG, JKP were formed.
On intervening night of 13th-14th Dec 2016, a joint operation was launched in the target area. Abu Bakar, the terrorist, was well known for his vicious move and had eluded the SFs number of times. Troops had to search villages Hajin, Jalura and Panipora to reach the probable location; village Bomai. Though by this time the temperature had slumped down to subzero, the troops, defying all odds, rushed to the target area. On reaching village Bomai, a cordon was laid around a complex of five houses in Dhooni Mohalla of vill-Bomai under PS Bomai in Distt-Baramulla at around 0330 hrs.
924 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1After confirming the presence of one armed terrorist from the owner of the house, Shri Gaurav Kumar Balyan and his team positioned themselves in the front as well as on the right side, whereas Shri Pawan Kumar Trigunayat and his team took position covering the rear and left side of the complex. While troops were patiently observing the target houses, Constable A. Bairavan noticed some movement in one of the target house. Once the presence of terrorist was confirm inside the target house, troops were alerted and the occupants of the target/adjacent houses were evacuated to a safer place. The terrorist was asked to surrender before the troops by making announcement on the public address system but all went in vain.
Finding no other option, at around 0600 hrs, it was decided to further tighten the noose by carrying out room intervention. To take the terrorist by surprise, two intervention teams, the first one under command Shri Gaurav Kumar Balyan and the second one under command Shri Pawan. Kumar Trigunayat were tasked to enter the target house from the front and rear side simultaneously. The moment, the teams entered the target house, the terrorist positioned at a strategic location opened heavy fire on the first team and lobbed a grenade towards the other. In this lethal attack, both the teams had miraculous escape. Though troops reacted promptly to the situation but before they could target the terrorist, he moved to the other room and started firing from different locations to distract the troops. Meanwhile, at around 0730 hrs QAT/179 Bn, CRPF under command Shri Dhairya Pal Singh, 2IC, SSP Sopore and 22 RR also reached the spot as reinforcement. The cordon was strengthened with the help of additional troops.
The terrorist was aptly equipped and continued to engage the security forces till 1300 hrs. Seeing the efforts of the troops going into vain against the terrorist; as he had taken advantage position, it was decided to demolish the house using IED. Since it was a large house, the terrorist shifted to the bathroom and remained unaffected by the blast. Thereafter, the terrorist made an attempt to flee from the front side firing indiscriminately, but couldn't succeed due to effective retaliation by the troops positioned on the front side. Meanwhile a bullet pierced through terrorist's leg and he fell down. The forces were up against a tough customer; he immediately got up and rushed for the cover. At this point of time, both Pawan Kumar Trigunayat and Gaurav Kumar Balyan, who were already in position, simultaneously opened fire upon the terrorist which was replied by even heavier volume of fire from the injured militant. The duo brave hearts with their buddies not only saved themselves from the terrorist's bullets but also responded effectively forcing the terrorist to take shelter behind a wall.
The battle was drawing long and the probability of law & order issues cropping up was inevitable as per the past trends. The situation was demanding a quick and final assault to conclude the operation. Sensing the gravity of the situation Shri Gaurav Kumar Balyan and Shri Pawan Kumar, displaying daring initiative, decided to take the challenge and put them ahead to lead the final assault. The duo with their buddies Constable A. Bairavan and Constable Vikram Paul displaying exceptional courage, and unmindful of their own safety, crawled towards the terrorist amid the rain of bullets to launch an effective attack. Finding himself totally cornered, the terrorist unleashed the barrage of bullets towards the approaching troops and prepared to hurl a grenade. But this time Shri Gaurav Kumar Balyan, Shri Pawan Kumar Trigunayat, Constable A. Bairavan and Constable Vikram Paul not only saved themselves but also reacted promptly. Throwing all cautions to wind, they ferociously charged at the terrorist and neutralised him on the spot by their accurate fire. The terrorist was later identified as Abu Bakar (r/o Pakistan), Divisional Commander, LeT A++ category carrying a reward of Rs 12.5 lacs and was operational in Chandigam area in Lolab valley of Kupwara District since 2009. Subsequent search of the incident site also led to the recovery of one AK 47 rifle, matching magazines, ammunition and grenades.
In this operation, S/Shri Gaurav Kumar Balyan, AC, Pawan Kumar Trigunayat, AC, Vikram Paul, Constable and a Bairavan, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 14/12/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 150-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Jay Dave
Sub-Inspector
02. Avtar Singh
Head ConstablePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 925 03. Mukesh Kumar Constable
04. Gawai Shekhar Dadarao
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 11 Feb, 2017, at about 2340 hrs, SSP Kulgam informed Shri Henzang, Commandant-18 Bn, CRPF, that terrorists had fired upon a cordon and search party consisting of 1 RR, Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu & Kashmir Police (JKP) and the Civil Police party at Kujur (NagbalMohalla) under Police Post-Frisal, Police Station-Yaripora, Dist-Kulgam in J&K. He requested for immediate reinforcement. Accordingly, Shri Henzang along with the Quick Action Team (QAT) of Ops Range Anantnag reached the site at about 0040 hrs. On arrival at the spot, Comdt-18 Bn was informed that four suspected terrorists are hiding in the house of Abdul Majeed Reshi, son-in-law of Abdul Kabir Sheikh and have taken • Ashiq Hussain s/o Abdul Majeed Reshi as the hostage. Accordingly, a strategy was chalked out and the village was cordoned by the troops of 1 RR on the northern and eastern side, SOG and civil police on the western side and QATs of CRPF on the southern side.
The target house was a multistoried structure. Once the cordon was established, it was searched twice by the troops but the terrorists could not be located. However, getting confirmation about the presence of terrorists from the house owner, it was decided to search the house once more by the party of RR and SOG. As the search party approached the first floor of the building, the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire, wherein two army personnel suffered grievous injuries. The search party was taken aback by the volume of fire and had to rush for cover. The injured jawans of RR had to be evacuated, the search party was scattered and had to be rescued and the exact location of the terrorists was still unknown.
At this point of time, on getting directions from the Commandant 18 Bn, Head Constable(Driver) Avtar Singh of 18 Bn, displaying exceptional valour, moved the Bunker vehicle from the outer cordon and placed it very close to the target house and helped the search party in safe evacuation from the house. Owing to the undulating terrain and the slippery/muddy conditions, placing the vehicle at an appropriate place was proving extremely difficult and replete with grave risk. However, driver Avtar Singh defying all the odds, deftly maneuvered his vehicle thrice in the area amidst the heavy firing and with the help of covering fire, helped in the rescue of 5-6 trapped personnel. While the troops were being rescued, terrorists were kept engaged and due to which troops got the opportunity to plant the IED in the rear part of the house. All the possible escape routes of terrorists were plugged to prevent slipping out of terrorists from the target house. The exchange of fire continued throughout the night intermittently.
Seeing the situation, Sub Inspector Jay Dave Singh of 90 Bn, CRPF (member of QAT of Anantnag Ops Range); positioned with the outer cordon, took an initiative to locate the terrorists and moved into a house opposite to the target house on the southern side. With no options remaining, the IED was blasted by RR which could bring down 80% of the house. With the certainty that the terrorists would have been killed, a search operation was launched. In order to clear the rubble, a JCB was pressed into service, but the moment it moved in, one of terrorist rose from the rubble and tried to load his weapon. Jay Dave Singh who had positioned himself in the adjacent house, exhibiting sharp reflexes, clear perception and extraordinary presence of mind opened aimed fire at the terrorist neutralising him on the spot.
As a part of target house was still surviving, another IED was blasted resulting in the complete demolition of the house. However, this also couldn't kill the remaining three terrorists as they came out of the debris and ran towards the south-eastern to escape by firing indiscriminately on the SFs. The RR troops deployed on that side fired precisely on the fleeing terrorists and neutralised one of them. The remaining two terrorists tried to escape towards the adjacent nallah. Commandant 18 Bn noticed the movement of terrorists and immediately directed two of his brave troopers Constable/Bugler Mukesh Kumar and Constable Gawai Shekhar Dadarao to chase the fleeing terrorists. Meanwhile, the terrorists continued to fire at the troops. Since the law and order component of the Forces were positioned in the route of the escape, any move had to be made with due care and caution. It was a daunting challenge for Constable/Bugler Mukesh Kumar and Constable Gawai Shekhar Dadarao who had the terrorists in front of them, but the presence of the troops in the line of fire was obstructing their move. At the same time, they were not willing to let the opportunity slip by. Displaying exemplary bravery, tactical skills, and raw valour, both of them stepped out of the gypsy and crawled towards the terrorists ignoring the flying bullets. The duo, reached close to terrorists, positioned themselves and without caring for their lives, opened targeted but controlled fire from close range eliminating both the terrorists at the spot.
The operation lasted for more than 10 hours and culminated with the elimination of four HM terrorists named Farooq Ahmad Dar (Cat.`C), s/o Mohammad Yousaf Dar, r/o Arreh, PS & Distt. Kulgam, Mudassir Ahmad Tantray @ Asim (Cat.'A'), s/o Mohammad Akbar Tantray, r/o Redwani Bala, PS & Distt-Kulgam, Wakeel Ahmad Thoker (Cat.'C'), s/o Mohammad Ahsan Thoker, r/o Hadigam, PS & Distt Kulgam and Mohd Younis Lone (Cat.'B'), s/o Ghulam Qadir Lone, r/o Hawoora, PS & Distt-Kulgam. The troops also recovered one INSAS Rifle, one AK 47 Rifle, one AK 56 Rifle, two pistols,926 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 two INSAS magazines, four AK 47 magazines, two pistol magazines and assorted ammunition from the slain terrorists. Two RR personnel martyred and one civilian (hostage) was killed by the terrorists during the operation.
In this operation, S/Shri Jay Dave, Sub-Inspector, Avtar Singh, Head Constable, Mukesh Kumar, Constable and Gawai Shekhar Dadarao, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 11/02/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 151-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Dalbir Singh
Head Constable
02. Rajesh Kumar
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
An information was received from own sources that a large number of Maoists, fully equipped with automatic weapons, are camping in Palachalma Village of Sukma district of Chhattisgarh. Sukma is one of the most Maoist affected districts of the country. This region is the proclaimed territory of the Maoists where supposedly they run a parallel government. The area is considered to be the toughest operational area due to its geographical location, treacherous terrain, remoteness, Maoists cadre strength and alleged local support to the Maoists. The information was an opportunity for the security forces (SFs) to strike the well-equipped Maoists in their own bastion which could have far-reaching consequences for the region, and its equations. It was a daunting task for the SFs and expected to be one of the most challenging operations against the Maoist in the region.
To execute the task, a joint "search" operation was planned by IGP Operations CRPF, Chhattisgarh Sector, involving the troops from 217 Bn, 219 Bn and 208 CoBRA. According to the plan, the operation was launched from the base camps Bheji and Gorkha of Sukma district at 0430 hrs. on 20/10/2014 under the overall command of IGP (Ops) Chhattisgarh Sector. The troops moved towards the target area i.e. village-Palachalma. Troops were "tactically searching the area while advancing towards the target, but found nothing at the end of the day and, hence, took LUP at the night in the jungle area, approx. 02 Km short of Palachalma village. Due to the strong hold over the area and intelligence network, there was every possibility that Maoists would have sensed the presence of SFs in the area. An ambush/attack from the Maoists was most expected on next day. Troops were also aware of this and prepared for such situations.
On 21/10/2014, keeping the tactical requirements of the situation in view, the troops were divided into 04 groups to carry out the search of the area more effectively. Troops of 217 Bn were given the task to cordon the left side of jungle area of village Palachalma and its surroundings. Accordingly, the troops of 217 Bn advanced towards their target area at about 0930 hrs. As was expected, Maoists were observing the movement of the troops and had laid an ambush against the troops towards the left side of the jungle area which was assigned to 217 Bn to search for. As the troops reached the ambush zone of the Maoists, they opened indiscriminate firing on the troops with the intention to kill them and snatch their weapons. The troops also responded quickly with the counter firing towards the Maoists, but, they were having very less cover against the bullets and, hence, it was very difficult for them to hold the ground for a long. The situation was very dicey and demanding a bold and courageous counter action.
In the need of hour, HC/GD Dalbir Singh and CT/GD Rajesh Kumar of 217 Bn took the initiative and decided to launch a bold counter offensive against the Maoists. The duo, amid the heavy firing, fearlessly moved forward and counter- attacked the entrenched enemy from the left flank. The sudden but courageous move of the duo awestruck the Maoists and subdued their firing for a while. Meanwhile, the fellow troops, enthused by the bold and courageous move of the duo, also joined them, thus, augmented the counter offensive against the Maoists. The encounter continued for about 30 to 40 minutes. The audacious and concentrated counter offensive devastated the Maoist defense and forced them to flee away, leaving their armed dead cadre behind. The bold counter offensive by the troopers not only broke the deadly ambush laid by the Maoists, but, also led to the killing of one dreaded Maoist. During post encounter search dead body of one maoist (later identified asPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 927 "Sodhi Masa" S/O Somada,village-Palachalma, PS-Kistaram, Distt-Sukma, CG) alongwith 01 country made gun and 02 maoist pamphlet were recovered from the encounter site. The dead maoist was a Jan Militial member of Palachalma.
In this operation, S/Shri Dalbir Singh, Head Constable and Rajesh Kumar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 21/10/2014.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 152-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 2nd Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Ashok Kumar (2nd Bar to PMG)
Second-In-Command
02. Narpat PMG
Assistant Commandant
03. Saurabh Verma PMG
Sub-Inspector
04. Balbinder Pathania PMG
Constable
05. Jkharias Lakra PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On receipt of reliable information about the presence of 40-50 armed Maoists led by Manila (Secretary Pamed-Usur Area Committee) and Somdu( Usur LOS Commander) on the axis of village-China-Borkel, Komatpalli and Bhattiguda, Distt-Bijapur (CG), a joint Search and Destroy Operation (SADO), consisting 04 teams of 204 CoBRA along with STF & DRG of Civil Police (CG) was planned and launched under the overall command of Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-I/C 204 CoBRA Bn. The target area is assumed to be the citadel of the Maoists due to the insurmountable terrain, strong Maoist cadre strength and robust intelligence set-up of Maoists. Maintaining surprise and secrecy, which are the key requirement in any operation, have always been a challenge before the SFs and the troops were aware of this.
As per the Ops plan, on 03/01/2017 at about 0430 hours, the troops left the base camp Basaguda and Tarem for the operation. Maintaining utmost secrecy and moving stealthily, troops reached the jungle area of Peddagelur at around 1610 hours and advanced towards their target area. Suddenly, they came under heavy firing from the front direction. Maoists had sensed the presence of SFs in the area and were ready to attack them. Maoists were firing indiscriminately upon the troops with the intention to kill them and loot their weapons. Acting promptly, troops retaliated in self-defense. In this exchange of fire, a DRG Jawan namely Somaru Hemla, sustained bullet injuries and was requiring immediate medical support as blood was profusely coming out of the wounds. At this juncture, Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-I/C displaying the raw courage and grit of true commander rose to the occasion to rescue the injured DRG jawan. He along with CT/GD Balbinder Pathania took a grave risk and moved into the Maoist firing zone. The duo rescued the injured jawan to a safe area and arranged first aid to injured jawan. Later the injured was evacuated to the base camp and troops continued the operation with even strong determination.
On 04/01/2017, when the troops reached near the jungle area of village Bhattiguda for SADO, the party commander, Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-I/C divided the troops into 04 parties numbering Party No.-1, 2, 3, & 4 respectively, to carry out the task more effectively. While troops were searching the area, at about 1600 hours, around 70-80 armed Maoists hiding in an ambush, fired heavily and lobed HE grenades on Party No.2. Troops immediately took the position and started retaliation. Since the party No. 02 was outnumbered; they asked the Ops commander for support. Displaying the exemplary leadership qualities and unparalleled tactical acumen, ops Commander Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-I/C quickly chalked out a counter-attack plan and coordinated the same with all party Commanders. As per the plan, troops launched a ferocious counter-attack on the Maoists to support the party No.2. Accordingly, Party No.1 was asked to lay cut off from the right side and parties 3 & 4928 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 from the left side. When parties were laying cut off, they also came under heavy firing from automatic weapons. Maoists were firing from well-defended positions and thus making difficult for the forces to lay an effective cut-off against them. A deadly blow to the Maoists was the need of the hour to break their fortified defense and thus the ambush. Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-I/C, finding no other option and to avoid losses to his troops, formed two micro assault teams of 3 persons each. The Assault-1 was led by Shri Ashok Kumar, 2-I/C along with Insp Laxman Kewat and CT/GD Balbinder Pathania whereas Assault-2 was led by Shri Narpat, AC along with SI/GD Sourav Verma and CT/GD J. Lakra.
The micro assault teams moved ahead under the cover fire towards the dominating heights where Maoists were taking natural cover and firing on the troops with area weapons. The micro assault teams, led by Sh Ashok Kumar 2IC, adopting sensible fire and move tactics and exhibiting conspicuous courage closed in on the Maoists positions amid the heavy firing. Finding them at the right position and utilizing the opportune moment, both the assault teams charged upon the Maoists leaving their well-defended position devastated. The 02 micro assault teams with strength of just 03 men on each team could brilliantly tackle a group of 15-20 heavily armed Maoists, hiding in their natural cover. The audacious attack by a small bunch of valiant troopers dazed the Maoists. The attack trembled the courage of the Maoists.
Taken aback by this extraordinary courage and ferocious counteroffensive, Maoists fled leaving one dead body of a Maoists (age approx 25 year, later identified as Sodi Mula S/o Linga, vill-Chutwahi, PS-Basaguda, Distt-Bijapur (CG) along with one 5.56 MM INSAS LMG, one magazine, 16 rounds, 02 HE grenade and other items. A lot of blood stains were found at the encounter site, indicating that Maoists had suffered heavy casualties but they managed to drag the bodies of injured/killed Maoists. Later, as per the intelligence corroborated from various Int agencies, it is confirmed that 02 Maoists were killed and 04 were severely injured during the encounter.
In this operation, S/Shri Ashok Kumar, Second-In-Command, Narpat, AC, Saurabh Verma, Sub-Inspector, Balbinder Pathania, Constable and Jkharias Lakra, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 04/01/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 153-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Gajanand Yadav
Sub-Inspector
02. Mukesh Kumar Pandey
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Srigufwara in Anantnag district of J&K has been a hub of terrorist activities on account of the inhospitable terrain, forest cover and active support of the local population. On 14 Dec 2016, at around 0700 hrs, based on a specific intelligence input about the presence of some terrorists in village Bewoora, Shri Satish Pandey, Asst. Comdt. with his troops of E/116 Bn and Special Operation Group (SOG) launched a cordon and search operation in the village. Troops reached near the target village by maintaining utmost surprise and secrecy. Meanwhile, troops from 3 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) also reached the village and joined the ops parties. Immediately, joint troops started cordoning the village.
While troops were cordoning the village, one terrorist taking advantage of the dense fog and poor visibility tried to flee towards a nallah preceded by undulating terrain by firing indiscriminately in the direction of the troops. No.121160043 Sub Inspector Gajanand Yadav and his buddy No. 125380536 Constable Mukesh Kumar Pandey of E/116 Bn CRPF, who were in the leading party came in the direct line of fire of the terrorist. The bullets missed them just by a whisker and they had a miraculous escape in this unexpected fire from the terrorist. Using their sharp reflexes, they immediately took tactical positions and tried to locate the terrorist. They noticed an armed terrorist at around 50 meters from their position firing in their direction and running towards the nallah to escape from the site. Sensing the intention of the terrorist, Sub Inspector Gajanand Yadav and Constable Mukesh Kumar Pandey pursued the terrorist without caring for their lives and throwing all cautions to air. Their fellow troops also followed them.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 929A prolonged chase followed through the dense orchards. The visibility was extremely poor on account of the early morning mist and the accumulated snow was severely hampering their movement. The movement through the orchard was a risky affair due to the poor visibility and thus facilitating an opportunity to the fleeing terrorist to employ some deceptive tactics. He could have stopped short, taken appropriate cover and shot at the two of them from close quarters. However, the young and energetic duo were charged up and determined for their cause. They fearlessly continued the chase, ducking and weaving through the dense apple trees, amidst intermittent fire from the fleeing terrorist. The terrorist was continuously firing on the troops to interrupt the movement of SFs. However, these odds couldn't deter the courage of the duo as they kept chasing the terrorist. Once Gajanand Yadav and Mukesh Kumar Pandey came out of the orchard, they located the fleeing terrorist as he was visible to them now. Finding the SFs too close to him, the terrorist fired upon them to make his escape good but this time Gajanand Yadav and Mukesh Kumar Pandey were prepared and ready to challenge him. They not only saved themselves from the terrorist's fire but also fired at him. The terrorist got hit and neutralized there only.
However, there was another terrorist who managed to escape taking advantage of the poor visibility and favorable terrain. The killed terrorist was later identified as Basit Rasool Dar, s/o Gh. Rasool Dar, r/o Marhama of Hizbul Mujahideen militant outfit. One AK 56 Rifle, 11 rounds of AK ammunition, two AK magazines and one HE grenade was recovered from the slain terrorist.
In the operation, Sub Inspector Gajanand Yadav displayed extraordinary courage and tactical acumen in appreciating the situation and responded to the situation in a most professional manner. Defying all the threats, he, along with Constable Mukesh Kumar Pandey chased the fleeing terrorist despite constantly being in the line of fire of the terrorist. Constable Mukesh Kumar Pandey also seized the opportunity and stood up to the challenge. He played a pivotal role in chasing and neutralizing the terrorist. In recognition of their exemplary bravery, unflinching commitment to duties and firm determination in the face of clear and imminent threat, names of Sub Inspector Gajanand Yadav and Constable Mukesh Kumar Pandey of 116 Bn, are strongly recommended for the award of "Police Medal for Gallantry".
In this operation, S/Shri Gajanand Yadav, Sub-Inspector and Mukesh Kumar Pandey, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 14/12/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 154-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Sanjeev Kumar Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
The old KP (Khanabal-Pahalgam) road from Bijbehara to Pahalgam is a vast stretch of undulating terrain with large dense forests and orchards. Movement of the troops in the area is difficult. The area is also notorious for stone-pelting and provides ample cover for movement of terrorists. Successful operaiion in the area requires specific information and proper synchronization by a large number of troops to cut off escape routes.
On 03 Aug 2017, at around 1845 hours, Comdt 90 Bn received information from SDPO Bijbehara that some militants had fired on the Army and Police party in village Kanelwan, under P.S. Bijbehara, about 08 kms away from HQrs of 90 Bn CRPF, Uranhall. Shri Ajai Kumar Sharma, Commandant-90 Bn CRPF alongwith Shri Angom Naresh Singh, Second-in-Command and Unit Quick Action Team (QAT), immediately rushed to the village and cordoned off the suspect area in co-ordination with Special Operations Group (SOG) JKP & RR. Since it was dusk and darkness had already started to settle in, it was an impediment in the smooth movement of troops. Further, the open area laced with orchard trees provided very little cover to the troops during their advance to the suspect location. Nevertheless, with some calculated risks and appreciation of the input and terrain, the security forces embarked on a joint search operation of some suspect houses. Shri Angom Naresh alongwith Constable Sanjeev Kumar of 90 Bn CRPF formed one such team for search operation. However, despite conducting the search of three houses, which took considerable time, nothing was found.
During the search of a suspected house of one Abdul Qayoom Bhat s/o Gh. Mohd Bhat, Constable Sanjeev Kumar who was observing every detail with rapt attention, noticed a magazine pouch lying near the washroom situated just outside930 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 the suspect house. Sensing something amiss he immediately informed his senior on the significant recovery. Consequently, the cordon of the suspected house was tightened and alert was sounded to the troops involved in the search to be extremely vigilant. It was found that the washroom had been locked from inside, which confirmed the suspicion of the militant being holed up inside. Several warnings were made to the militant to surrender but there was no response. To provoke the militant to come out of the hide-out, tear smoke shells were also fired by the civil police towards the washroom. However, it did not have the required effect. Approaching the area was a difficult proposition as it was open and afforded little cover in case of fire from the militant. Due to the apparent threat, nobody volunteered to move ahead. At this critical juncture, exhibiting exemplary bravery and professional acumen, Constable Sanjeev Kumar under the guidance of Angom Naresh, Second-in- Command started advancing forward tactically towards the bathroom using whatever little cover the ground could provide and by adopting the smallest posture. His aim was to close in on the target area so as to prevent the militant from sneaking out of the washroom and moving into the adjacent large buildings. Exposing himself to the gravest threat, he crept close to the location. He observed some movement of the militant trying to take position from the window of the washroom.
Suddenly, the militant, who was hiding in the washroom, opened a volley of fire with the intention of disorienting the troops and taking advantage of this situation to move out to safer location. However, Constable Sanjeev Kumar immediately leapt out of the way of the adversary's fire and retaliated without loss of time forcing the militant to move back and probably injuring him as well. This gave an opportunity to the other members of the team to take position and further close in on the militant. Thereafter, a heavy exchange of fire ensued between the militant and the troops. After about 15 minutes the gun battle ended. Thereafter, search of the washroom was organized and body of one militant namely Yawar Nasir Shergujary, r/o Shirpora, PP-Jaglatmandi, Distt-Anantang (J&K) was recovered. The killed militant was associated with Hizbul Mujahideen group. Recoveries included one SLR Rifle with magazine and matching ammunition, one Chinese grenade and other miscellaneous articles.
In the operation, Force No. 065230247 Constable Sanjeev Kumar of 90 Bn, CRPF displayed exemplary and unflinching courage, professionalism, dedication towards duties in the face of grave threat to his personal life, wherein he seized the opportunity with tactful appreciation and reacted swiftly in not only preventing the militant making good his escape from the hide-out but repulsed the fire with hardly any cover to himself, injuring and cornering the militant thereby leading to his final elimination. The timely and gallant reaction of Constable Sanjeev Kumar prevented a probable damage to the security forces. Constable Sanjeev Kumar fired 10 rounds in the encounter and distinctly contributed to the killing of one active and dreaded militant of Anantnag district of South Kashmir."
In this operation, S/Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 03/08/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 155-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Devendra Kumar
Second-In-Command
02. Vijay Singh
Assistant Commandant
03. Bishnoo Singh
Head Constable
04. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Tral sub-division of District Pulwama in South Kashmir has been a traditional stronghold of terrorist outfit Hizb-al- Mujahideen (HM). Many of the top Commanders of the terrorist outfit hail from Tral. Also the cadres of HM enjoy popularPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 931 support in the area. Tral also has a geographical advantage as it is situated on the edge of the plateau dividing upper and lower Tral. It is surrounded by densely forested mountains. While it provides natural shelter to the terrorists, it also makes counter-insurgency operations extremely difficult and hazardous. After the elimination of Burhan Wani, Divisional Commander of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen in an encounter on 08 July 2016, his subordinate Sabzar Ahmad Bhat had taken over as the Operational Chief of HM.
On 26 May 2017 at about 2000 hrs, an input was received about the presence of some HM terrorists in the area of village-Saimoh under PS-Tral. A party of 42 RR in a MPV (Casper) had already moved to Saimoh to verify the input. Almost around the same time, a party of C-Coy of 180 Bn, under command of Shri Devendra Kumar, Second-in-Command (Operation) 180 Bn, CRPF and Special Operations Group (SOG) Tral of Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) alongwith, Dy. S P. Tral were also patrolling in the nearby Rasthsuna village. At around 2030.hrs, when-the MPV of 42 RR reached Saimoh village, it was fired upon by the .terrorists which was appropriately retaliated. On hearing the gunshots, the CRPF party under command of Shri Devender Kumar Second-in-Command(Ops) immediately got in touch with the party of RR and reached the spot in village Saimoh (where the party of 42 RR was fired upon). Major Vikram Singh, Party Commander of 42 RR informed him that the terrorists have fled towards Dutta Mohalla of village Saimoh after opening fire on the party of RR. Accordingly, both the Commanders decided to instantly cordon off Dutta Mohalla. At about 2045 hrs, Sh. Devendra Kumar, Second-in-Command alongwith Shri Vijay Singh, Asst. Comdt. Company Commander of C coy, troops of 42 RR and SOG laid a tight cordon around 15 suspected houses.
Subsequently Sh. Rajesh Kumar, Comdt-180 Bn, CRPF, SSP Awantipora, Brig. Raja Chakraborty, Sector Commander also reached the spot to supervise the operation. Thereafter, the joint team decided to carry out search of suspected houses of Dutta Mohalla as inputs indicated the presence of a dreaded Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander along with other terrorists. Two joint teams of CRRE, Army and SOG were formed to carry out search of suspected houses. Sh. Devender Kumar, Second-in-Command, his buddy Constable Ajaz Ahmed Bhat with a team of SOG and RR were part of the first team. The second team comprised of Sh. Vijay Singh, Asstt. Comdt. and his buddy No 991370898 Head Constable Bishnoo Singh. While the search was on, one of the house owners Mohd. Yusuf Dar confirmed hearing gun shots a while ago and that immediately thereafter HM Commander Sabzar Ahmad Bhatt along with two other terrorists had entered his house. At the same time he expressed that he was unsure whether they were still hiding in his house or had moved out. On receiving this information, the cordon was further tightened to foil any escape of the terrorists taking advantage of the darkness. Further search was suspended till first light and the troops were briefed to remain alert and cautious.
The next morning i.e. on 27 May, at about 0730 hrs, Vijay Singh and his buddy Bishnoo Singh exposing themselves to great risk positioned themselves on the first floor of the neighboring house on the southern side of target house. From that position they were able to see all the activities inside the target house through shattered windows. The target house was a threes storied structure and it was a move fraught with grave risk as terrorists were on a dominating position. Vijay Singh alongwith his buddy Head Constable Bishnoo Singh fired few probing shots towards the target house but they received no response. Meanwhile, Devendra Kumar, Second-in-Command and his buddy Constable Ajaz Ahmed Bhat also had taken position on the ground floor of the house adjacent to the target house on the western side.
At about 0830 hrs, Devendra Kumar observed some movements inside the target house and immediately alerted all parties. He and his buddy Constable Ajaz Ahmed Bhat moved forward by crawling towards the target house in order to engage the terrorists. On observing the movement, the terrorists opened heavy fire and a massive gunfight ensued at around 1030 hrs. Devendra Kumar and his buddy Ajaz Ahmed Bhat however were undeterred and amidst the heavy fire continued their move towards the target house very tactically. The terrorists continued to fire but were also rapidly changing positions with an intention to throw the security forces off guard and make good their escape. Suddenly amidst the fierce gun battle, the terrorists turned their weapons in the direction of Vijay Singh Asst. Comdt and his buddy Bishnoo Singh. Undeterred they responded promptly with burst fire and aborted the attempted escape of terrorists who were trying to jump out of the window. At this critical juncture Devendra Kumar, Second-in-Command and his buddy Constable Ajaz Ahmed Bhat, exhibiting shrewd tactical acumen and presence of mind, strategically shifted their positions and moved to within striking distance of just 10 meters from the target house and directly engaged the windows from where the terrorists were firing at the troops. As the terrorists were in a very well fortified three 'storied building, they were virtually not impacted by the fire. Therefore, changing tactics, Sh. Vijay Singh and his buddy Head Constable Bishnoo Singh pitched a few Molotov cocktails inside the target house as a result of which the ground floor of the target house caught fire and the smoke billowed up to the second floor.
At about 1115 hrs, the terrorists made one last bid to escape. Firing indiscriminately at the troops they rushed out of the target house from different exit points and ran towards the main gate. Devendra Kumar and Ajaz Ahmed Bhat unmindful of their personal safety and throwing all caution to wind, positioned themselves against the heavy fire of the terrorists and neutralized one of them. Vijay Singh and his buddy Bishnoo Singh who had positioned themselves very tactically did not let go the opportunity either and firing accurately neutralized the second terrorist who was later identified as Faizan Muzaffar932 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 Bhat @ Umaira who had snatched one 5.56 mm lnsas Rifle from one of the CRPF units in Tral on 04 Mar 2017. The looted weapon was also recovered from the slain terrorist. The other slain terrorist was identified as Sabzar Ahmad Bhat @ Saba Don @ Zaraar s/o Gh. Hassan Bhat r/o Rathsun.a under PS Tral of Hizb-Ul-Mujahideen outfit. He was an A++ Category terrorist carrying a cash reward of Rs 12.5 lacs. He was active since 2015 and was one of the top Hizb-U1-Mujahideen Commander post the elimination of Burhan-uddin Wani. Faizan Muzaffar Bhat @ Umaira s/o Muzaffar Ahmad Bhat was a r/o Tral. One AK-47 assault rifle, one 5.56 Insas Rifle, two magazines of AK-47, four magazines of lnsas Rifle and matching ammunition were also recovered from the slain terrorists.
In the operation, Shri Devendra Kumar, Second-In-Command and Shri. Vijay Singh, Asstt. Comdt. of 180 Bn CRPF led from the front like true leaders of men and 'exhibited astute tactical appreciation, extraordinary courage and raw valour and motivated their buddies to remain steadfast in the roles assigned to them under the most trying circumstances. As a result they jointly accomplished the challenge of neutralizing both the terrorists. Force No. 991370898 Head Constable Bishnoo Singh and Force No. 085340215 Constable Ajaz Ahmad Bhat of 180 Bn, CRPF, too, did not let their Commanders down and kept up the faith reposed in them. They displayed highest degree of commitment, sense of responsibility and exceptional bravery in the face of clear imminent danger and ensured that they stood up to the challenge and neutralized the terrorists.
In this operation, S/Shri Devendra Kumar, Second-In-Command, Vijay Singh, AC, Bishnoo Singh, Head Constable and Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 26/05/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 156-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 3rd Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
(1st Bar to PMG)
01. Rajesh Kumar Commandant
02. Sanjay Kumar
(3rd Bar to PMG)
Dupty Commandant
03. Rajesh Kumar Barnela PMG
Assistant Commandant
04. Sandeep Singh PMG
Constable
05. Ranjan Kumar Sah (1st Bar to PMG)
Constable
06. Nazir Ahamed PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 14 July 2017 at around 1530 hrs, a specific input was received from SSP Awantipora about a suspected hideout of the dreaded terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in the Wantiwan Ridges of Wantiwan mountain ranges in Vill- Satoora, under PS-Tral in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Wantiwan Ridge is located 2405 metres above the mean sea level. The 65 degree gradient of the target area was a challenge for the security forces, as the enemy was in a dominating position and could spot the approaching troops from a distance. The target area was located to the north of Tral on Tral-Aripal-Satoora-Juhisthan road at a distance of 20 kms from Tral and a approx. 2 kms from the road head.
Considering the nature of the terrain, a joint Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was planned by Shri Rajesh Kumar Commandant of 180 Bn, CRPF. It was an opportunity to effectively put to practice the training he had acquired in jungle warfare tactics. Accordingly, on 15 July, just before the crack of dawn at around 0330 hrs, the area was cordoned off by the joint forces of CRPF, 42 RR and the Civil Police. Thereafter, a search party comprising of 'A' company and Quick Action Team (QAT) of 180 Bn, D/42 RR and party of Civil Police tactically moved towards target area. Non-stop rainfall onPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 933 the previous night had made the climb further slippery and difficult. But braving all odds, the security forces managed to reach the target area at about 0645 hrs.
Shri Sanjay Kumar, Dy. Comdt. of 180 Bn after due deliberations with Shri Rajesh Kumar, Comdt and sensing the necessity to quickly take positions, before the terrorists commenced their morning activities, placed the troops tactically around the suspected hideout which was a natural cave on top of the Wantiwan Ridge. Behind this cave was a big cliff, rendering it virtually impossible to lay the cordon on that side; therefore a "U"-shaped cordon was placed. Shri Rajesh Kumar Comdt along with his buddy Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah positioned himself a little below on a seemingly vertical undulation. The absence of a natural cover in front of the cave was further hampering the advance of the troops closer to the mouth of the cave.
At about 0750 hrs, two young men appeared at the mouth of the cave absolutely unaware of the cordon around them. The troops challenged them in order to ascertain whether they were terrorists or local shepherds. The challenge was responded with a volley of bullets. One of them in a bid to escape, ran down the slope firing towards the QAT deployment. Finding himself completely trapped, in sheer desperation he tried to approach the cordon, with grenade in his hand and mouthing choicest expletives in a bid to terrorize the troops. Since Shri Rajesh Kumar along with his buddy Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah were positioned very tactically, they could closely observe the movement of the terrorist. Sensing that the terrorist was capable of inflicting serious damages, Rajesh Kumar, Commandant like a true leader, exhibiting remarkable presence of mind in a split second move exposed himself to the extent that he had the line of sight very clear, fired accurately and gunned down the terrorist.
The remaining terrorists who were trapped in the cave continued to fire heavily with UBGL as well as small arms. Without appropriate cover, approaching the cave was fraught with grave risk and danger. Not to be cowed down, Shri Rajesh Kumar Barnela Asst. Comdt, 180 Bn who had taken position at a distance in front of the cave continued to pound the cave with UBGL and other firearms thus preventing the terrorists from making escape attempts.
At about 1300 hrs, after a prolonged gunfight lasting almost five hours, Sector Commander of RR, who was supervising the operation ordered the troops to advance towards the hideout without loss of time, as he was of the view, that, any further delay in the final assault may provide the terrorists with the opportunity to escape once the darkness set in. Shri Rajesh Kumar, Comdt expressed his reservations on the issue and informed the Sector Commander that the move may prove disastrous in the absence of adequate cover, as the terrorists were occupying a dominating position. He proposed an alternative route that would take them much closer to the hideout. Thereafter he suggested smoking out the terrorists with the help of Tear Smoke shells and grenades. The plan was appreciated and well taken by the Sector Commander Shri Sanjay Kumar, Dy. Comdt volunteered to lead the Assault Team which was tasked to destroy the heavily fortified hideout on the top of the ridge adopting the most challenging and difficult route proposed by Comdt 180 Bn. This Assault Team comprising of total 12 jawans of CRPF, 42 RR and SOG (JKP) led by Shri Sanjay Kumar, Dy. Comdt moved up slowly negotiating the cliff with the help of ropes and other rock climbing equipments and emerged at the rear side of the hideout. Maintaining utmost surprise they tactically took positions. Thereafter, Sanjay Kumar alongwith his buddy Constable Sandeep Singh crawled towards the cave cautiously. Any false move could have spelt death knell for them, but they were determined to succeed and thus stoically moved forward. When they were at a reasonable striking distance, Sanjay Kumar directed his buddy Constable Sandeep Singh to fire Tear Smoke shells inside cave to induce the terrorists out of their hideout. Sandeep Singh further crawled and moved closer to the opening of cave and took position behind a boulder located at a distance of 10 meters short of the opening to the right of the cave. Sandeep then started pounding the mouth of the cave with Tear Smoke Shells. This innovative tactics paid dividends when after about 15 minutes of pounding the cave with tear smoke munitions, two terrorists appeared behind a wall made of stones and fired in the direction of Sanjay Kumar, Dy. Comdt and his buddy Sandeep Singh. Tactfully taking the cover of the boulder, they retaliated the fire. Sanjay Kumar was not a novice to such situations and had faced the fury of terrorists with tenacity and vigor in the past as well on many occasions thereby earning him awards for his gallantry. Completely undaunted by the flurry of fire from the adversaries he took careful aim and returned the fire. He managed to strike one of them forcing the other terrorist to withdraw into the cave. But he changed his position again and tossed more tear smoke grenades into the cave. Realizing that the officer had inched very close to the cave, the terrorist hiding inside the cave lobbed a Hand Grenade which blasted outside narrowly missing Sanjay but not without leaving him with a splinter injury in his knee. But he was not the kind to give up midway. Displaying indomitable resolve, nerves of steel and unflinching commitment Sanjay Kumar held his position. The team by this time had exhausted their Tear Smoke Munitions (TSM) and they demanded more. Shri Rajesh Kumar Barnela, Asst. Comdt., his buddy Constable Nazir Ahamed and Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah were tasked to move ahead with TSMs. All the three moved tactically and reached near the opening of the cave. Rajesh Kumar Barnela placed himself on a dominating rock and covered the opening of the cave. He then directed Constable Nazir Ahamed to fire few tear smoke shells inside the hideout. At this juncture, to cover the front of the hideout, Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah was directed to take position near a tree located at a distance opposite the hideout. Displaying exceptional maturity beyond his age, unflinching commitment and unmindful of his personal safety Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah took his position at the designated place. The terrorists observed the movements and fired in their934 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 direction but Rajesh Kumar Barnela returned the fire effectively forcing them to withdraw. Seizing the opportunity, Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah fired 04 rounds of UBGL inside the cave but the irregular structure of the cave rendered it ineffective. So Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah along with Major Shakti Singh of RR inched closer to the hideout and from a distance of about 20 meters fired more grenades into the cave with the help of UBGL. In response the terrorist lobbed a Hand Grenade out of the cave which exploded erecting a dust and smoke curtain blinding the troops. Taking advantage of this melee, one terrorist ran out of the cave firing indiscriminately in the direction of Rajesh Kumar Barnela and his buddy Constable Nazir Ahamed. With utter disregard to their own safety and throwing all caution to wind stepping out of their covers Rajesh Kumar, Asst Comdt, his buddy Constable Nazir Ahamed and Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah fired simultaneously and neutralized the terrorist about 5 meters outside the cave. In order to ascertain that no more terrorists were hiding inside the cave, few more rounds of UBGL were fired by Constable Ranjan Kumar Sah inside the cave but there was no response. At around 1745 hrs, the search party moved ahead to mop up the operation. Ranjan Kumar Sah along with jawans of SOG continued to give covering fire to the search. party. The over 12 hour long operation led to the elimination of three hardcore terrorists of JeM. Later during search, it was found that the total length of the cave Was a approx. 45 ft, was curvilinear in shape and on account of its typical shape and special features flat trajectory weapons and projectile had proved ineffective. The effective use of Tear Smoke Shells and grenades had proved to be the game changer. The slain militants were identified as Hasan Bhai, category 'A' JeM and a r/o Pakistan, Parvez Ahmed s/o Ghulam Qadir Mir, category 'C' JeM r/o Puhoo, Kakapura, Pulwama and Mukhitar Ahmad Lone, category 'C' JeM, s/o Mohd. Akram Lone, r/o Vill-Amirabad, Tral, Pulwama. Troops also recovered 03 AK-47 Rifles, 14 AK magazines, 80 rounds of AK-47, 01 UBGL, 06 UBGL rounds, 01 wireless set with antenna and ammunition pouches. It was also learnt that these terrorists were responsible for attacks on the camps of 180 Bn CRPF and 42 RR in Tral in the month of June 2017.
In this operation, S/Shri Rajesh Kumar, Commandant, Sanjay Kumar, Dupty Commandant, Rajesh Kumar Barnela, Asst. Commandant, Sandeep Singh, Constable, Ranjan Kumar Sah, Constable and Nazir Ahamed, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 15/07/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 157-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Raj Kamal Bardhan
Assistant Commandant
02. Gayakwad Ashish Bhashkar
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
The village of Kakapora in district Pulwama has become the hot-bed of militancy in South Kashmir, since its revival, in the aftermath of the killing of a top militant leader in July 2016. It has now developed as the strongest bastion of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT). Off late, the village has been also harboring the hard core Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists. The OGW network of LeT is very strong in the village, and on numerous occasions, operations against LeT terrorists in Kakapora have failed, due to massive stone pelting resorted to by the miscreants/sympathizers of the terrorists.
On 21 June 2017 at about 1715 hrs, SSP Pulwama shared an input about presence of 2 or 3 LeT terrorists in New Colony, Kakapora under PS-Kakapora, District Pulwama with Commandants of 182 and 183 Bns of CRPF and 50 RR. A joint operation was planned and after initial briefing joint forces proceeded to the said village. A cordon was laid around 15 suspected houses by the joint troops of D Coy of 183 Bn under command of Shri Raj Kamal Bardhan, Assistant Commandant, 183 Bn, CRPF, 50 RR under command Major Kartikeya Manral (IC-72229P) and Special Operations Group (SOG) Kakapora under command Shri Satish Kumar, Dy SP, J&K Police. Subsequently, the cordon was further reinforced by additional troops of CRPF, Army and Civil police.
After outer and inner cordon were completely placed, six suspected multi-storied houses were identified for search. These clusters of houses were very closely located and connected with each other with common boundary walls.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 935Accordingly, a joint search party of Quick Action Team (QAT) of D coy of 183 Bn under command Shri Raj Kamal Bardhan and 50 RR under command Major Kartikeya Manral were formed. Subjecting themselves to grave risk, the search parties comprising of 4 personnel apart from the officers completed the search of four suspected houses and had also tactically cleared the ground floor of the fifth house. As the party tactically moved towards the first floor, a volley was fired upon the party from the first floor. Major Kartikeya Manral of 50 RR was hit by the bullet on his right shoulder and he fell down. Shri Raj Kamal Bardhan alongwith his buddy-pair Force No. 115258242 Constable Gayakwad Ashish Bhaskar of 183 Bn who was with the Major immediately moved to the left of the injured Major Kartikeya Manral and exposing themselves to grave risk of life fired at the terrorist forcing him to withdraw to the first floor. Exhibiting true camaraderie and genuine concern for their wounded colleague, both Raj Kamal Vardhan and his buddy Gayakwad Ashish evacuated Major Kartikeya Manral of 50 RR to safety subjecting themselves to grave risk.
After evacuating Major Kartikeya to safety Raj Kamal Bardhan and Constable Gayakwad Ashish returned back and moved towards the adjacent house changing their tactics, as from there they could keep a hawk's eye on the terrorists if they made a bid to escape. However, when Raj Kamal Bardhan and Gayakwad Ashish were moving towards the adjacent house, the terrorists let loose another volley of bullets. Both of them had a miraculous escape. On reaching the house, they found civilians inside. Knowing very well that the security forces were present in the house, the terrorists continued to fire at the house. After the civilians were evacuated to safety, both of them placed themselves tactically on the first floor of the house in order to prevent the terrorist from escaping as there was only one escape route and it was more or less confirmed that the terrorists were present in that particular house only.
The forces kept bombarding the house with UBGL and MGL till it caught fire and went up in flames. At around 0100 hours next day, after the flames were extinguished, the target house was jointly searched by the forces. Dead bodies of three terrorists were recovered. The terrorists were identified as Majid Mir S/o Abdul Hamid Mir category ' A', Shakir Ahmad s/o Washeer Ahmad category 'B', r/o Kakapora, Pulwama and lrshad Ahmad Dar s/o Mohammad Sultan Dar r/o Padgampora, Awantipura category 'C' , all from the LeT militant outfit. The troops also recovered one AK-56 Assault Riffle, three AK-56 magazines and one T-65 Pistol with magazine.
In the said operation Shri Raj Kamal Bardhan, Asst Comdt and his buddy Constable Gayakwad Ashish displaying extraordinary initiative and raw valor volunteered to be part of the room intervention team. When Major Kartikeya sustained bullet injury while carrying out this risky task, both of them exhibiting the spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie and exceptional courage compelled the terrorist to withdraw by firing at him in a split second's time, thereby saving valuable life of a colleague and evacuating him to the confines of safety at great risk they also evacuated trapped civilians to safety. Thereafter, without getting bogged down by the imminent threat, Asst Comdt Raj Kamal Bardhan alongwith with his buddy Constable Gayakwad Ashish took position in the adjacent building which was under constant fire from militants and prevented the terrorists from making good their escape. It was a clean operation without any collateral damages which reflected the synergy and cohesiveness between the operating forces.
In this operation, S/Shri Raj Kamal Bardhan, Asst. Commandant and Gayakwad Ashish Bhashkar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 21/06/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 158-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Ajay Rathee
Assistant Commandant
02. Anil Singh Rana Constable
03. F Kanta Singha Constable936 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 04. Sanjay Kumar Ray
Constable
05. Ruwngshel Bungsong
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On an information received from DIGP(Ops) North SNR, an operation was planned and launched by Additional S.P., (SOG) SNR and Zonal QAT, (25 personnel) U/C Sh. Ajay Rathee, A/C 144 Bn in the area of SOG (Cargo) at 0900 Hrs on 05/12/2014. Zonal QAT under command Sh. Ajay Rathee along with SOG team laid a tactical NAKA at 90 feet road, in front of Avanta Bhavan.
At about 1345 Hrs, while troops were vigilantly checking the movements on the axis, suddenly 02 armed terrorists emerged and opened indiscriminate fire on SFs with their automatic weapons. The troops had a narrow escape from the stray bullets as they just passed them by a whisker. Acting promptly, the Zonal QAT and SOG retaliated the fire and forced the terrorists ran away towards the side street of Avanta Bhavan. The Zonal QAT commander, Sh. Ajay Rathee, A/C sensed the intentions of terrorists and chased them, along with his team. Seeing the SFs behind them, terrorists took the position at the turn of the street and started firing towards the advancing troops making them difficult to move ahead.
Terrorists were firing heavily to delay the advance of the SFs to get time to run away from that area. However, Sh. Ajay Rathee, A/C, and his brave hearts were in no mood to let them escape. Taking the rare opportunity in hand, Sh. Ajay Rathee, A/C decided to move forward and challenge the terrorists. Amid the heavy firing, he along with No. 060065153 CT/GD Sanjay Kumar Ray and No. 095150384 CT/GD R.Bung Sung moved ahead and directed to HC/GD P. Sengar, CT/GD Gyanendra Kumar and CT/GD Sarwan Kumar for giving them covering fire. Defying the mortal threats, Sh. Ajay Rathee, A/C along with his two brave hearts moved quickly towards the terrorists. Finding the above trio advancing towards them, terrorists increased the volume of firing and also threw a grenade to stop their movement. However, no obstacle and threats could deter the courage of above trio. Setting aside the odds, the trios moved forward and charged on the terrorists with accurate firing and neutralized one of the terrorists at the end of the street.
The audacious action by the SFs devastated the evil designs of the terrorists as they could not get sufficient time to run away and hence the other terrorist took shelter in nearby buildings. To search the hidden terrorist, team commander made two parties and started searching for him in the nearby area and houses for approx. 04 hours. When the security forces reached near the Govt. Boys Model School, the hidden terrorist opened indiscriminate firing on the security forces which was aptly retaliated by the troops.
To get the terrorist out from the building, a room intervention party comprising CT/GD Anil Singh Rana, CT/GD F. Kanta Singh, CT/GD Sanjay Kumar Ray and CTGD R.Bung Sung, along with troops from SOG was formed and assigned the task to search the building. Firstly troops cordoned the area near the school building, where the terrorist was hiding, from the backside to prevent any slip out of the terrorist. Meanwhile, the terrorist got located in a nearby Cow shade building, firing indiscriminately on SFs. After cornering the terrorist, troops made an appeal for surrender, meanwhile, with the help of covering party above 04 brave hearts of room intervention party positioned themselves behind the wall of the house near the cow shade. On the appeal of SFs, the terrorist responded with a barrage of bullets towards them. Acting pro-actively, CT/GD Anil Singh Rana, CT/GD F. Kanta Singh crawled towards the terrorist position and reached close to him with the help of covering fire of CT/GD Sanjay Kumar Ray and CT/GD R. Bung Sung. Holding their nerves and displaying rare courage, they lobed a grenade towards the terrorist followed by the accurate firing. The ferocious and unexpected attack from close range by the above duos stunned the terrorist and before he could act upon the situation, he got neutralized.
In the fierce gun battle two LeT terrorists namely Qari Asrar (District Commander (LeT) Pak Orgin carrying reward of 5 Lakh) and Shahid-UI-Islam Malik (LeT) were neutralized by the troops and AK 47 Rifles-02 Nos., Mag AK 47-05 Nos. with 03 Hand grenades were also recovered from slain terrorists.
In this operation, S/Shri Ajay Rathee, Asst. Commandant, Anil Singh Rana, Constable, F Kanta Singha, Constable, Sanjay Kumar Ray, Constable and Ruwngshel Bungsong, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 05/12/2014.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 937 No. 159-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Pushpendra Kumar Commandant
02. Appamoni Roy Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
An intelligence input was received about the presence of Central Committee Members Ganesh Uike along with 100- 150 armed CPI (Maoists) in general area of villages Puvarti, Bhattiguda and Kondapalli under PS Basaguda. Accordingly, a joint Search and Destroy Operation for 03 days and 03 nights was planned by Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Commandant, 204 CoBRA to nab the Maoists. Operating against the Maoists in the above area has always been challenging, yet, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Commandant, 204 CoBRA dared to test the Maoists in their citadel. He made his squad for this daunting task comprising of 04 teams of 204 CoBRA and State Police component from Basaguda. Sensing the unborn challenges of the operation, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Commandant decided to lead the operation.
Weighing all the opportunities and threats, the party Commander left the base camp Basaguda on 15/11/2016 at around 1930 hours along with his troops. Troops were advancing towards the target area using cross-country routes through the jungles in the moonlight while maintaining the secrecy and crossed the Polampalli, Konjer, Tekalgudem and Tumilguda villages. On 17/11/2016 at around 0600 hrs, while troops were carefully searching the area, scout of the Team noticed a hideout of Maoist having 40-50 armed cadres. He immediately alerted the troops and communicated the information to Ops Commander, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt who was in the leading Section. It was a crucial moment for the commander as they could finally locate their target which was in front of them. He sensed that this is the time for which they were looking for since long; to defeat the Maoists in their citadel. Without wasting a fraction of moment party Commander Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt chalked out a plan to nab the Maoists. He divided his troops into 03 smaller parties and directed to Party Commanders of Party No. 1 & 3 to lay the cut off on escape routes from the right and back side respectively, while keeping Party no. 2 along with him to confront the Maoists from the front.
As per the plan, Party No. 1 & 3 advanced towards their respective targets stealthily taking due cautions to maintain the secrecy. Meanwhile Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt. decided to reach as near as possible to the Maoist position to get a suitable tactical position while maintaining the secrecy. It was a daring move, as; a single mistake could have attracted the notice of heavily armed Maoists that could have been fatal for the approaching troops. Nevertheless, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt. displaying the true grit and metal of a commander, led his troops from the front as he crawled towards the Maoists position along with his buddy CT/GD Appamoni Roy. Holding their nerves and the ground, the duo reached very close to the position of Maoists. The fellow troops also followed their commander and took position behind him. After securing the position of his troops, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt. challenged the Maoists to surrender before them. Maoists, at once, got stunned on finding SFs so close to them. However, they took on the situation at very next moment and mocking the offer of surrender, opened a barrage of bullets towards the team of Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt. The shower of bullets missed their targets by a hairs breadth and the troops had a miraculous escape from the first brunt of the Maoists firing.
Acting promptly, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt. retaliated to the Maoists firing. Soon his buddy Constable Appamoni Roy along with other troops also joined his commander and augmented the counter-attack against the Maoists. Maoists had occupied tactical positions behind the fortified defense due to which the firing from the SFs was not proving effective. On the other hand, Maoists were firing indiscriminately and trying to encircle the SFs to kill them and snatch their weapons. The situation was turning against the troops. A bold and courageous counter-offensive against the Maoists was the need of the hour. Rising to the occasion, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt, decided to change his position as the firing from this position were going into vain due to the fortified defense of Maoists. He located a place ahead of his position from where he could have effectively fired upon the Maoists. But, this was going to be like sailing amid the tempest. Advancing amid the raining bullets was a fatal move; yet, the commander chooses the glory and bravery over the fear of fatality. He, displaying the utter disregard for his personal safety, led from the front and crawled with incredible speed in hostile conditions to reach close to the Maoists at the striking position. Advancing fearlessly amid the firing, the commander positioned himself and started targeting the Maoists with his accurate fire. Meanwhile, his buddy also joined him from behind and galvanized the intensity of the counter-attack.
The fierce and daring counter-offensive led by Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Comdt astonished the Maoists. Before the Maoists could overcome the blow, the duo neutralized one of the Maoists through their effective firing. The valorous act of938 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 the commander and his buddy catalyzed the fellow troops, who also charged ferociously upon the Maoists. Meanwhile the Party no 1 & 3 also reached the spot and started encircling the Maoists in coordination with the Party no. 2. Finding them encircled and under the thrust of effective fire of SFs, Maoists, having no other option, started fleeing away taking advantage of thick vegetation and undulating ground.
The fierce gunfight continued for approx. 30 minutes. During post encounter search troops recovered 01 Dead Body Of CPI(Maoist) namely MochakaMasa, Jan Militia member along with SBML Rifle-02 Nos, Pipe Bomb – 02 Nos, Detonator – 04 Nos, Empty Cases – 13 Nos (Ak 47-09 Nos, Insas-04 Nos), Bayonet (Knife) – 01 No., Pitthu Bags-04 Nos, Blanket – 10 Nos, Bow & arrow, Mobile Phone, Naxal Literature/Banner, Cash Money of Rs 1,910/-and other miscellaneous daily use items. A lot of blood stains were also noticed in the area indicating that other Maoists have also been hit by bullets but managed to escape. Reportedly, two injured Maoists later succumbed to their injuries in Pamed and Dharmavram village.
While returning towards Base Camp Naxals fired upon our troops at 03 different places to kill the SFs and to snatch away the dead body of the Maoist, but due to strong retaliation by the troops, they had to run away to save their lives. When troops were in general area of Vill Polampalli, CT/GD Appamoni Roy who was in leading section noticed 02 IEDs which were demolished at the spot. Due to good tactical observation, alertness and presence of mind, CT/GD Appamoni Roy could detect the IEDs and thus not only averted the untoward incident but also saved precious life of his colleagues. The Ops party after overcoming all the odds on the way reached base camp Basaguda safely on 17/11/2016 along with the dead body of the Maoist and recovered items.
During the operation Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Commandant, 204 CoBRA, displayed exceptional leadership qualities, raw grit and moral courage risking his own life in the face of certain death, in order to save the lives of his men and accomplish the task. Undaunted by the strong offensive by the Maoists, he stood his ground, led his troops from the front and continued to fire leaving the Maoists with no option but to flee. He set an indelible example of chivalry of the highest order and sterling qualities of a leader, in keeping with the highest traditions of the Force. CT/GD Appamoni Roy fought bravely and accompanied his commander in tough times. He was instrumental in neutralizing and inflicting injuries to the Maoists. Besides, during the return, he detected the two IEDs before the blast and saved precious lives of his fellow comrades.
In this operation, S/Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Commandant and Appamoni Roy, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 17/11/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 160-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Anil Kumar Chaurasia
Assistant Commandant
02. Kousik Mondal Constable
03. Ingale Lakhan Prakash
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
In the period just before the commencement of Shri Amarnathji Yatra the security situation in South Kashmir took an ugly turn with a spate of incidents including the attack on Army convoy on 3rd June at Lower Munda, Quazigund, the brazen ambush of police party under SHO Achabal on 16th June at Thajiwara , the snatching of weapons from residential guards of Justice (Retd) Attar at Sarnal and looting of many ATMs. The main culprit in these dastardly acts was the dreaded Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) Comdr Bashir Lashkar. He was also being assisted by a few foreign terrorists which made him formidable and dangerous. To top it all, he had been tasked by Abu Dujana, the LeT Comdr of South Kashmir to organize attack on yatris undertaking Shri Amarnathji Yatra. His elimination was therefore extremely crucial to the SFs and more importantly for the safety of the Yatra.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 939At around 0300 hrs on 1St July, 2017 Shri Mohsen Shahedi, DIG (Ops) CRPF Anantnag received intelligence input from SSP Anantnag regarding presence of Bashir Lashkar at Brinty, Dialgam in Anantnag alongwith a possible Foreign Terrorist (FT). SSP requested for participation of Range QAT and CI (Ops) Platoon in the operation. DIG CRPF Anantnag immediately briefed and directed Shri Anil Kumar Chaurasia, Coy Commander of B coy of 40 Bn who was commanding Young Platoon to be in readiness and also alerted Range QAT. Simultaneously, he also detailed the law and order coys and reserves to tackle the likely difficult situation ahead. The Young Platoon was marched with SOG, JKP without loss of time and in the absence of Comdt 40 Bn, who was placed as Camp Comdr at Nunwan Yatra Base Camp, Shri Mohsen Shahedi himself simultaneously moved with the Range QAT fully aware of the very sensitive impending operation which would require effective leadership. Comdt 96 Bn was designated as the law and order co-ordinator for the troops dealing with law and order situation in and around the encounter site.
Immediately on reaching the location, Shri Mohsen Shahedi, DIG undertook a quick appreciation of the ground situation and after briefing placed the Young Platoon of B/40 and Range QAT in a strong inner cordon with the SOG, JKP and 19 RR. The terrain around the target house was a difficult one, as, in that, on one side there was a fast flowing stream and on the remaining sides it was an open stretch spruced up intermittently with trees which afforded little cover due to their small girth. The troops therefore positioned themselves about 40 meters from the target house in the undulating terrain on the front and left side with SOG. RR was positioned on the right side of the target house and its rear. Shri Mohsen Shahedi with Constable Ingale Lakhan Prakash of Range QAT and Shri Anil Chaurasia with Constable Kousik Mondal took positions right in front of the target house.
Soon it was revealed that militants had kept as many as 17 civilians as hostages in the house of one Bashir Ahmad Ganie. Shri Mohsen Shahedi, DIG instructed his officers and men not to open fire and be extremely vigilant in case militants tried to move out under cover of the hostages. This was an extremely difficult situation. A strategy was devised by the senior officers of CRPF, RR and JKP wherein services of village Headman and Imams of local mosques were roped in and the militants were asked to release the hostages. Initially there was no response which created a tense situation. After a lot of coaxing and cajoling and tense moments, one of the ladies who was a hostage climbed on the roof of the target house and signaled. Shri Mohsen Shahedi sensing some action quickly went back to his original position in the inner cordon and alerted the troops. Soon the hostages started coming out and were signaled to move quickly to safe area. Immediately after the release of the hostages militants started heavy firing on the troops. Shri Mohsen Shahedi alongwith Shri Anil Chaurasia, Constable Ingale Lakhan Prakash and Constable Kousik Mondal who were positioned at the front side of the target house faced a volley of bullets which went past them. Shri Mohsen Shahedi just managed to take cover in time and immediately retaliated from his position by firing 3-4 bursts and shouted to his frontal team to respond with effective fire. Initially they were a bit hesitant but seeing their Comdr fire in the face of threat they too responded. The tactical placement and timely counter-action by Sheri Mohsen Shahedi, Shri Anil Chaurasia, Ingale Lakhan Prakash and Kousik Mondal despite grave threat to them from direct fire, forced the militants to retreat back into the house. Probably one of the militants was hit in the counter-action as he could be seen limping inside.
Without losing time Shri Mohsen Shahedi alongwith Comdrs of RR and JKP quickly formulated a plan. Accordingly, it was decided that RR will fire UBGL to breach the wall and CRPF will give covering fire from two sides. This time Shri Mohsen Shahedi alongwith with Constable Ingale. Lakhan Prakash of Range QAT and Shri Anil Chaurasia, AC with Constable Kousik Mondal from Young Pit placed themselves further ahead and close to the target house. This was a difficult position as there was no proper cover with just the girth of small trees where one could take position only sideways. However, they had no option but to take the risk as early winding up of the operation was extremely crucial in view of increasing law and order problem from all sides and the apparent risks involved in continuing the operation by night. During this period heavy fire started again which was effectively repulsed by Shri Mohsen Shahedi, Ingale Lakhan Prakash, Shri Anil Chaurasia and Kousik Mondal in the forefront even as bullets grazed past them and some got embedded in the tree trunks being used a cover. Despite grave and continuous threat to their personal life, they kept firing on the militants in cohesion and did not allow them to move to tactical position from where they could have caused heavy damage to troops.
After a successful breach of the wall, IED was placed and the target house was blasted. The building however, did not collapse completely. Therefore, joint assault teams were prepared for conducting room intervention/search in co- ordination with RR/SOG. Shri Mohsen Shahedi, DIG briefed Shri Anil Chaurasia, Asst. Comdt, Constable Ingale Lakhan Prakash and Constable Kousik Mondal on the layout and likely reprisal by the militants who may still be alive. It so happened that during the search procedure one of the militants who was still alive, fired on the troops but was instantly eliminated by the team.
Finally, after an intense search of the debris, dead bodies of two militants were recovered alongwith two AK-47 Rifles and 02 magazines. The terrorists were identified as Bashir Ahmad Wani @ Ukasha and Bashir Lashkar (LeT) District Commander (Category-A++) of Anantnag and Abu Maaz an F/T (Pakistani). Lashkar had a bounty of Rs 10 lakhs on his head and was the most wanted terrorist in South Kashmir.
940 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1It was a very well co-ordinated, professionally and gallantly executed successful operation which was winded up timely without any casualty/bullet injury to the troops. The credit for this can be attributed to Shri Mohsen Shahedi, DIG (Ops) CRPF Anantnag, Shri Anil Chaurasia, Asst Comdt. Constable Ingale Lakhan Prakash and Constable Kousik Mondal. Shri Mohsen Shahedi played a crucial role in the release of 17 civilian hostages. He led from the front in the operation and despite grave and continuous threat to his personal life wherein he faced volley of fire from militants from close range on several occasions, he remained undaunted and led the counter-action vehemently, leaving no scope for the militants to escape from the target house or cause casualty of troops. In the process, he made effective fire of 23 rounds from his AK-47 rifle. Shri Anil Kumar Chaurasia, Asst. Comdt., Constable Ingale Lakhan Prakash and Constable Kousik Monal formed a formidable team by remaining in the forefront of action with Shri Mohsen Shahedi, DIG and responded effectively to counter the militants in spite of being gravely exposed to militant fire without any proper cover. They also successfully conducted the house search and eliminated two most wanted militants. In the process, they efficiently fired 52, 14 and 31 rounds respectively from their AK-47 rifle.
In this operation, S/Shri Anil Kumar Chaurasia, AC, Kousik Mondal, Constable and Ingale Lakhan Prakash, Constabe displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 01/07/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 161-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Jatinder Kumar
Sub-Inspector
02. Satwinder Pal Bhumbla
Constable
03. Abhay Kant
Constable
04. Pawan Kumar Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 16 Jun 2017, at about 0730 hrs, on receipt of a reliable intelligence input from Special Operations Group (SOG), Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP), Anantnag that 02-03 militants had taken shelter in Mallik Mohalla in Village-Arwani, under P.S. Bijbehara, Distt-Anantnag (J&K), Quick Action Team (QAT) of G Coy of 90 Bn, CRPF located at Hassanpora and QAT of C Coy of 90 Bn, CRPF located at Sangam, immediately rushed to the site. Troops of 1 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and SOG, Anantnag also reached the site and it was decided to launch a joint search operation of Mallik Mohalla. Arwani is a thickly populated village and Mallik Mohalla is a small colony within the village housing around 50 dwelling Units. The village is notorious and with some of the youth of the village joining the terrorists, the populace supports the terrorists and any operation launched by the security forces is met with stiff resistance.
On reaching the designated place, it was almost confirmed that the terrorists were hiding in the house of one Mohd Shafi Mallik r/o Mallik Mohalla. Accordingly the QATs of 90 Bn under command of Sub Inspector Jatinder Kumar took position on the left of the target house and the troops of RR took position on the right of the target house; a single storied structure. Once the CRPF troops had taken up their positions, troops of SOG approached the house of Mohd Shafi who confirmed the presence of three militants in his house. The occupants of the house were immediately evacuated to safety. Thereafter, an announcement was made on the public address system asking the terrorists to surrender. It met with no response. Since the target house was now firmly identified, Sub Inspector Jatinder Kumar alongwith his buddy Constable Abhay Kant placed themselves tactically in a two storied house approximately 20 metres from the target house on the left side. From this position, the front entrance as well as one window on the left was clearly visible and any attempt by the terrorists to escape through any of these could be scuttled. As has been the trend, a large mob gathered around the encounter site from the surrounding villages and started heavy stone pelting on the deployed troops, in a bid to help the terrorists to flee. Meanwhile, the CRPF reinforcements had also arrived to tackle any law and order issue. The river Vessu flowed just behindPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 941 the target house, which provided the terrorists a good escape route, provided they could eject from the target house and give a slip to the forces. In order to foil any such attempts by the terrorists Constable (Bugler) Satwinder Pal Bhumbla alongwith a few members of the QAT took position at a dominant spot on the right side of the target house so as to block any exit from the right of the target house as well, which would also have led to the river. Another Constable Pawan Kumar alongwith a few jawans took position in the left corner from where he could watch behind the target house. This way all escape routes were sealed. All these personnel were within striking distance and therefore extremely vulnerable.
At around 0815 hrs, the terrorists sensing the movement of security forces around their hideout opened indiscriminate fire, which was effectively retaliated by the SFs. Intermittent firing continued from both the sides. Any attempt to get close to the target house was fiercely resisted with very heavy volume of fire. At about 1400 hrs, the target house was set afire with the help of Molotov cocktails and flame throwers. It hardly made any impact and the terrorists continued to fire by changing positions. Realising that the ploy was not working, the security forces tactfully placed an IED to blow-up the target house, which damaged the left side of the target house. At this point of time, one of the terrorist who was hiding in the bathroom of the target house, tried to escape from the right side by jumping out of the window. Constable (Bug) Satwinder Pal who was keeping a hawk's eye and had positioned himself very tactically opened fire at the fleeing terrorist. He retaliated with a heavy volume of fire in order to pin down the troops. However, Satwinder Pal held his ground and retaliated strongly. He was well supported by Sub Inspector Jatinder Kumar, Constable Abhay Kant and Constable Pawan Kumar, who also simultaneously opened fire. This compelled the terrorist to beat a hasty retreat. An IED was again placed at around 1600 hours to the right side of the target house, as that portion of the building was still intact. The IED blasted partially bringing down the right side as well. However, the firing from the target house continued unabated. As dusk was fast approaching it was jointly decided to bring down the target house with the help of another IED. At around 1845 hrs, another IED was placed by entering the target house from behind which had partially come down. This IED was strong enough to demolish the house. Since there was no more fire from the adversaries, at about 2000 hrs, the combined team of CRPF, SOG and RR which included Sub Inspector Jatinder Kumar, Constables Abhay Kant, Satwinder Pal and Pawan Kumar commenced search of the house. Since there was debris all around, JCB was deployed to clear the debris. Dead body of one slain terrorist was recovered from the debris at about 0030 hrs. At about 0230 hrs on 17 June one of the terrorist who had probably survived the blast and was stuck in the debris, suddenly raised his weapon and opened fired on the search party. Undeterred by this unexpected response and unmindful of their personal safety, exhibiting sharp reflexes the party retaliated eliminating the terrorist. The search resulted in the recovery of dead bodies of three slain terrorists alongwith 02 AK-47 Rifles and 03 magzines. The operation lasted close to 24 hrs. The slain terrorists were identified as Junaid Ahmed Matoo (Category A++) the dreaded LeT District Commander S/o Manjoor Ahmed, r/o Kulgam, Nasir Ahmed Sheikh (Category A+) S/o Hassan, r/o Shopian and Adil Mustaq Mir (Category C) s/o Mustaq Ahmed Mir, r/o Pulwama.
In this operation, S/Shri Jatinder Kumar, Sub-Inspector, Satwinder Pal Bhumbla, Constable, Abhay Kant, Constable and Pawan Kumar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 16/06/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 162-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry (Postumously) to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Naresh Kumar (1st Bar to PMG)
Assistant Commandant
02. Ram Kumar PMG
Sub-Inspector
03. Mohammad Yaseen Tali PMG (Posthumously)
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 07 Dec 2016 commandant 90 Bn received an intelligence input regarding the presence of militants in the village Arwani under P.S. Bijbehara, Dist-tAnantnag (J&K). The information was further corroborated with SP Ops Anantnag, who also confirmed the same. The Arwani village and surrounding-areas are highly radicalized where movement of troops is extremely difficult due to regular movement of terrorists and inclination of locals toward militants.
942 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1Taking all the facts into account, Commandant-90 Bn CRPF planned a CASO in the above village. Commandant 90 Bn tasked his QAT commander, F/NO. 830763144 Sub Inspector Ram Kumar to mobilize the Unit QAT immediately towards the target village and cordon the area. SI Ram Kumar without wasting fraction of the moment left for the target village with the Unit QAT of 90 Bn and placed an inner cordon around the suspected house alongwith SOG and local Police in village Arwani, under P.S. Bijbehara, Distt-Anantnag (J&K). Later on,Valley,QAT of Srinagar Sector CRPF also joined the operation. The Army component joined the operation only after the area was secured by the CRPF troops. On getting surrounded by SFs, Militant's made every effort to conceal their presence and did not react to the initial probing fire by SFs. Since it had become dark, it was decided to hold the operation till first light. A tight cordon was also placed by CRPF, RR & Civil police the whole night.
The next day i.e. on 08 Dec 2016, at about 0830 hrs militants finally broke the silence and tried to escape from the site by initiating heavy fire on the troops. Troops also retaliated to the militant's fire and a resultant deadly encounter ensued between militants and security forces. SI Ram Kumar had positioned himself in a house opposite the target house and was in the direct line of fire of the militants. Undeterred by the volley of fire, SI Ram Kumar retaliated ferociously and did not budge from his position. Displaying nerves of steel, grit, and determination of a soldier and sound tactics he kept the militants engaged and managed to keep them pinned down. He did not allow the militants to escape from the site. Meanwhile, civilians from nearby villages, numbering in thousands, gathered and started pelting stones from all sides and raising anti-India slogans. The operation was halted after dusk even though intermittent firing went on all through the night.
On 9th morning, IED was laid around the house by RR but it could blow off only a small portion of the building. In the meantime, the law and order situation on the encounter site and adjoining villages worsened. Keeping in view the sensitivity of the area and deteriorating law and order situation, it was decided to conduct room intervention without any further delay. Due to some previous incidents where SFs had suffered setbacks, there was some hesitation in conducting the room intervention due to inherent threats. At this juncture, SSP Anantnag trusted the capabilities of valley QAT of CRPF and entrusted the responsibility to Sh. Naresh Kumar, Valley QAT commander for room intervention as last resort to finish the operation. Sh Naresh Kumar, AC took the challenge into hand and carried out a final recee before carrying out the room intervention. A team consisting of Valley QAT, CRPF under command Sh. Naresh Kumar, AC & SOG Anantnag was formed to carry out the above task. To give effective cover to the room intervention party, a team led by Sub Inspector Ram Kumar was placed in front of the target house.
As per the plan, SI Ram Kumar with his team took the position in front of the target house and made way for the room intervention party. After that room intervention team, led by Sh. Naresh Kumar, AC, approached the target house, defying all the fatal threats. Taking all precautions, the team reached the ground floor and tactically cleared the room wherein they recovered dead body of a militant. Sh. Naresh Kumar and his buddy CT/GD Md Yaseen Teli giving cover fire to each further moved ahead to clear other rooms. While reaching close to the next room, they sensed some movement inside the room. The duo got alert and took a brave and calculated decision, wherein, they threw two hand grenades simultaneously inside the room and were about to enter the room when the roof of the room got collapsed due to the impact of the blast. The sudden collapse of the upper floor; already damaged, forced Sh. Naresh Kumar and his buddy to shift and move back. After that, the search team cleared the remaining rooms of the building.
The team under command of Sh. Naresh Kumar successfully cleared the hideout, without any collateral damage. During the process of room clearance, CT/GD Md. Yaseen Teli got splinter injuries in his lips from cement splinters which flew from the wall on account of the blast impact of the grenade. (Later, in an attained martyrdom while fighting against the fidayeen).
During the clearing of debris, the dead bodies of 2 dreaded militants namely Majid Ahmed Zargar, Divisional Commander of LeT in Distt-Kulgam and Rahil Amin Dar, Distt Commander of LeT in District –Anantnag were recovered and 02 AK-47 rifles, 01 UBGL attachment, 01 Meg. & Recoiling Rod were recovered.
In the operation, Shri Naresh Kumar, AC, SI/GD Ram Kumar, and Late CT/GD Md. YaseenTeli, displayed astute tactical acumen, exemplary courage, and commitment of the highest order in the face of grave and imminent danger. The neutralization of the two top LeT militants invariably broke the backbone of militancy in the districts of Anantnag and Kulgam.
In this operation, S/Shri Naresh Kumar, AC, Ram Kumar, Sub-Inspector and Late Mohammad Yaseen Tali, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 07/12/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special DutyPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 943 No. 163-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Ashok Jakhar Sub Inspector
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
Subsequent to the elimination of a top Hizbul Mujahideen Commander in July 2016, the valley of Kashmir in general and South Kashmir in particular witnessed a sudden spurt in militancy. This sudden upsurge sprung new challenges for the security forces engaged in tackling counter-insurgency and law and order issues in South Kashmir particularly in the districts of Shopian and Pulwama. But, over a period of time, the forces with the help of the local police as well as the home grown intelligence network could gather valuable intelligence of the adversaries resulting in well planned and surgical operations against the adversaries. One such intelligence input was received on 3 July 2017 at about 0800 hrs from the State Police about the presence of 5-6 militants in the area of village-Bamnoo, PS-Rajpora, District-Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Bamnoo is a densely populated village with houses closely located to each other. The inhabitants are particularly hostile towards the security forces and are favorably disposed towards the terrorists.
Accordingly, a special joint Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was planned by Shri Narendra Pal Singh, Commandant 182 Bn and Shri Anand Kumar, Second-in-Command, 183 Bn in consultation with SSP Pulwama. After the initial briefing by Commandant-182 Bn, troops of CRPF and Special Operations Group (SOG), Pulwama tactically moved towards village-Bamnoo. They were joined by troops of 44 RR on the way. After reaching the said village, troops which had already been divided into three parties, began cordoning the village. Since the villagers identified themselves with the cause advocated by terrorists, the security forces faced stiff resistance. Aptly aided by the law and order components, the forces pressed on and a cordon was established to foil the escape of the terrorists. Once the outer cordon was laid and all the escape routes were plugged, SFs started tightening the cordon around the suspected houses, when, the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on the advancing troops. The militants were suspected to be hiding in three houses. They were shuttling between these houses to confuse the troops. Some civilians who were present in these houses were first evacuated to safety. Thereafter announcements were made on the public address system asking the terrorists to surrender, which was responded with a volley of fire by them.
The troops also responded with a heavy volley of fire with an intention to push them into one of the houses in order to corner them. The terrorists visualizing the tactics of the forces very cleverly avoided getting stuck in one house and continued to move between the houses and engage the troops. From the response of the terrorists it was evident that they were well prepared for an extended gun fight. At the same time the Commanders realized the futility of a long drawn battle. Therefore SSP Pulwama, Comdt 182 Bn CRPF, Second-in-Command 183 Bn, CRPF and Commanding Officer of 44 RR jointly decided to carry out room intervention. Three teams were constituted to carry out room intervention of the three houses simultaneously. First team comprised of Narendra Pal Singh, Commandant 182 Bn, CRPF, his buddy Constable Ujjwal Bhujel and troops of 44 RR, second team comprised of Anand Kumar, Second in Command, 183 Bn, CRPF, his buddy and troops of 44 RR. The third team comprised of Major Shukla of 44 RR, Sub-Inspector Ashok Jakhar and troops of 44 RR. All the three teams exposing themselves to grave risk approached their respective target houses and cordoned them off. Exhibiting a steely resolve and quiet determination Narendra Pal Singh and his team entered the first house lobbing grenades followed by controlled fire. The terrorists continued to fire at the party, but Narendra Pal and his buddy Ujjwal Bhujel, who were leading the charge, kept pushing the militants to a corner. They succeeded in cornering one of them, but then the two militants, who were trapped on the first floor, suddenly opened fire on the party from a very close range. Undaunted by this unexpected attack, Narendra Pal Singh, Commandant and Constable Ujjawal Bhujel exhibiting exemplary valour and raw grit, throwing all caution to wind, launched a ferocious counter attack severely decapitating both the militants. But these few minutes of uninterrupted fire helped the militants to change their positions. In a bid to escape they lobbed successive grenades at the troops deployed behind the target house where the team of Major Shukla alongwith Sub-Inspector Ashok Jakhar was positioned. Simultaneously the two militants jumped from the first floor of the building firing indiscriminately. Displaying sharp reflexes Commandant Narendra Pal Singh, Constable Ujjawal Bhujel and Sub-Inspector Ashok Jakhar came out of their cover and let out a hail of bullets neutralising both of them. In this close combat, Sub- Inspector Ashok Jakhar and three army personnel received splinter injuries. However, the intermittent firing kept continues from the house.
Meanwhile, Sh Anand Kumar, 2IC who was searching the suspected houses, noticed the injured personnel and immediately rushed to evacuate them to a safer place. He, with the help of his fellow troops, evacuated all the injured personnel to a safe zone amid the heavy firing without caring for his Life. After that, Sh Anand Kumar, 21C returned to search the suspected houses when a heavy volley of fire came towards him. The bullets just missed their target, yet suggested944 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 the position of militants. Sh Anand Kumar, 2IC took the opportunity in hand and advanced towards the target house very tactically so that the operation could be concluded before darkness set in. The militants caught the movement of SFs towards him and started lobbing grenades to thwart their advance. Undeterred to the fatal threats and displaying true grit of a commander Sh Anand Kumar, 2IC slowly but firmly led his troops inside the house. The militant however continued to put up stiff resistance and continued to fire. Meanwhile, darkness had set in and search of the rooms was fraught with grave danger. At the same time he also realized the necessity to hold the ground as any unnecessary movement meant exposing his men. Therefore Anand Kumar with his team stayed put inside the house waiting for an opportune moment to strike. However, there was no movement on the part of the terrorist the whole night. At first light Sh Anand Kumar, 2IC and his team resumed the search of the house. As the team approached one of the rooms, the militant who was hiding suddenly opened fire from a very close quarter. Displaying raw guts and exemplary bravery Sh Anand Kumar, 2IC reacted swiftly and fired at the militant. Meanwhile, the house caught the fire. To ensure the safety of his troops, Sh Anand Kumar, 2IC tactically came out of the house but kept firing towards the militant to prevent his escape. Later the fire was extinguished and body of militant recovered from the houses. During post encounter search, total three dead bodies slain militants were recovered from the encounter site, which were later identified as Kifayat Ahmed Khanday (Cat B), Jehangir Ahmed Khanday (Cat C) and Mohd Akhtar alias Taib (Cat C) of HM along with one AK-47 with one magazine, one INSAS rifle with 2 magazines and one SLR with one magazine.
The operation was an example of dynamic leadership, both on the part of Shri Narendra Pal Singh, Comdt 182 Bn, and Shri Anand Kumar, Second-in-Command of 183 Bn CRPF. Displaying astute professional skills and tactical acumen, they led from the front like true leaders. Braving the odds and exposing themselves to imminent threat to life both the officers duly aided by Sub-Inspector Ashok Jakhar and Constable Ujjwal Bhujel, ensured that the terrorists were neutralized. Sub- Inspector Ashok Jakhar and Constable Ujjwal Bhujel endured extreme danger and threat to life, in the course of the operation but remained steadfast and resolute towards the ultimate goal. The operation became a huge success due to the brave, courageous and dynamic leadership provided by the field commanders.
In this operation, Shri Ashok Jakhar, Sub Inspector displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 03/07/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 164-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the 1st Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Rajendra Nath Mallick (1st Bar to PMG)
Assistant Commandant
02. Mushkoor Ahmad Lone PMG
Head Constable
03. Bishnoo Singh (1st Bar to PMG)
Head Constable
04. Bhoi Shaileshkumar PMG
Constable
05. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (1st Bar to PMG)
Constable
06. Manish Verma PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 08 Aug 2017 C and G companies of 180 Bn were returning to their camps after completion of law and order duties in connection with visit of Hon'ble Chief Minister of J&K at Wuyan, Pampore. While they were passing through the area near Chak village, at about 1200 hrs, Shri Rajendra Nath Mallick, Assistant Commandant, Coy Commander of C/180 coy received a specific input about the presence of some terrorists in village Gulab Bagh, PS Tral, Dist-Pulwama. Acting promptly on the inputs, he rushed towards the target village after informing Commandant 180 Bn.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 945Gulab Bagh is a densely populated village situated approx. 5 kms from 180 Bn Hqr in Tral. A 100 Meters wide nallah flows at endways of the southern side of the village. When C coy reached village Gulab Bagh, the party of 42 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) was laying cordon on the southern side of the village. After a brief discussion with the Company Commander of 42 RR, Sh Rajendra Nath Mallick, AC deployed his party towards the north side of the village. At about 1300 hrs while the cordon was being laid, terrorists presuming that they have been encircled by the SFs, opened heavy fire on the troops. In the meantime Shri Rajesh Kumar, Commandant-180 Bn along with his Quick Action Team (QAT) also reached the target village and joined the operation.
Responding to the terrorists firing, SFs also started retaliating with precise and controlled firing to avoid any collateral damages. At about 1345 hrs amidst the heavy firing from both sides, three terrorists emerged out of the village, firing indiscriminately upon the SFs, in an attempt to escape through the nullah. They jumped into the nullahto make their escape good. Since it was summer season the nullah was relatively dry with very little water flowing through it and they could have easily escaped through it. Also, the nullah had natural rocks/uprooted trees etc which provided the terrorists with natural cover. Due to above the firings from SFs were going into vain, meanwhile, using the natural cover terrorists kept firing at the troops to prevent them from pursue.
At this crucial juncture, Commandant-180 Bn directed Sh Rajendra Nath Mallick, AC to take on the terrorists and prevent their escape. Sh Rajendra Nath Mallick, AC with his small team including Head Constable Mushkoor Ahmed Lone, Head Constable Bishnoo Singh, Constable Bhoi Shaileshkumar Babubhai, Constable Ajaz Ahmed Bhat and Constable Manish Verma immediately entered the nullah and advanced towards the terrorists, adopting fire and move tactics and using the natural covers. Meanwhile troops from 42 RR and SOG also joined them and galvanized their attack.
The terrorists were firing intermittently towards the approaching troops. In between, two jawans from Mallick's team managed to cross the nullah ahead of the terrorists and placed themselves tactically in way of the fleeing terrorists, while, Mallick and the remaining members of his team were close behind the terrorists. While chasing from a close distance Sh Rajendra Nath Mallick, AC located two terrorists who had taken cover behind the bark of a fallen tree. One of the terrorists in a desperate bid left his position and ran towards the bank of the nullahto escape. By now, Sh Rajendra Nath Mallick, AC with his remaining three brave hearts has also crossed the nullah.
Shri Rajendra Nath Mallick, AC and his buddy Constable Bhoi Shaileshkumar Babubhai on spotting the terrorist, approaching the bank, threw all caution to wind, charged on the terrorist from close quarters and neutralized him on the spot.
The remaining two terrorists in an attempt to save themselves took cover behind a huge uprooted tree placed diagonally across the nullah. The terrorists continued to fire indiscriminately on the troops while kept moving toward the bank of the nullah. In order to keep the advancing troops at bay, one of the terrorists who had inched closer to the bank, lobbed a grenade and fired at Head Constable Bishnoo Singh and his buddy Constable Ajaz Ahmad Bhat. The grenade exploded at a distance and since both of them had taken cover behind the trees they escaped unharmed. However, they seized the opportunity and regardless of their personal safety, left their respective covers and charged upon the armed terrorist by displaying exceptional valour, raw grit and sharp professional acumen. The duo neutralized the second terrorist through their targeted fire.
The third terrorist continued to fire intermittently from behind the cover of the uprooted tree in the nullah. Since he was surrounded, and realizing that both his accomplices had already fallen, he did not leave his cover. He continued in his position firing at anybody who attempted to advance towards him. At this juncture, Head Constable Mushkoor Ahmad Lone and his buddy Constable Manish Verma decided to take the adversary head on before he could inflict injuries to SFs. The duo advanced towards the third terrorist adopting fire and move tactics. Exposing them to the most imminent threat to their lives, the brave duo reached at the striking distance and fired at the hiding terrorist, neutralizing him on the spot. The brave troopers culminated the encounter in the most audacious way.
During the operation three terrorists were neutralized by the troops, who were later identified as Ishaq Ahmad Bhat, Category 'A', s/o Abdul Salam Bhat r/o Batagund, u/PS-Tral, Distt-Pulwama, Zahid Ahmad, Category 'B', s/o Abdul Rashid Bhat, r/o Village-Nowdal, u/PS-Tral, Distt-Pulwama and Mohd. Ashraf, Category 'C' s/o GulamMohd. Dar r/o Village- Trich, u/PS-Tral, Pulwama of Ansar-Ghajawat-Ul-Hind outfit group. 02 AK 47 Rifles, 04 AK mag, 105 rds of AK ammunition, one Chinese pistol, one pistol mag, 02 rounds of pistol ammunition, 02 ammunition pouches and one black canvas belt were recovered from the slain terrorist.
During the operation, Shri Rajendra Nath Mallick, Assistant Commandant, and his small team displayed exemplary field craft and tactics, astute tactical appreciation, extraordinary valor and nerves of steel during the entire operation. They successfully neutralized three terrorists in a well fought close quarter battle without any collateral damages or loss to own troops, despite exposed to heavy odds.
In this operation, S/Shri Rajendra Nath Mallick, AC, Mushkoor Ahmad Lone, Head Constable, Bishnoo Singh, Head Constable, Bhoi Shaileshkumar, Constable, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, Constable and Manish Verma, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher order.
946 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1These 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 09/08/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 165-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Sikander Yadav
Assistant Commandant
02. Surendra Kumar Sharma
Head Constable
03. Naveen Kumar Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 01 August 2017, at about 0330 hrs, on a specific input from State Police about the presence of 2-3 militants in the area of Village-Hakripora PS & District-Pulwama, a special joint cordon and search operation (CASO) was planned and subsequently launched by Quick Action Team (QAT) of B coy of 183 Bn u/c Shri. Sikander Yadav, Asst. Comdt, two Combat Action Teams (CAT) of 55 RR u/c Major Akhil and Special Operations Group, and SOG Newa led by Sub-Inspector Noorbo Onpo of Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP).
Hakripora is a densely clustered and populated village with nearly 160 houses located at a distance of appxtly 5 kms from B Coy Hqrs of 183 Bn of CRPF. The village is surrounded by dense orchards and was often frequented by the dreaded LeT militant Commander Abu Dujana. The villagers are totally pro-militants and are particularly hostile towards the forces. The presence of 2-3 militants were reported from a single storied house in the village. The input also suggested the presence of the most sought after LeT terrorist Abu Dujana who has been very cleverly evading the security forces for a long time. The house was situated in a small compound surrounded by a boundary wall which also housed another dwelling unit and was located opposite the Jama Masjid.
After the joint planning QAT of B/183, SOG Newa, alongwith two Combat Action Teams (CAT) of 55 RR reached Village-Hakripora in about 20 minutes and a tight cordon was placed around 12 houses adjoining the target house The BP Bunker was placed at the entrance of the gali at a distance of approximately 20 metres leading to the suspect house. Sikander Yadav tactically positioned his QAT on the right as well as in front of the target house. He himself alongwith his buddy Constable Naveen Kumar kept moving around and kept a close watch on the target house. Troops of RR led by Major Akhil took position behind the target house and SOG Newa positioned themselves on the right side of the target house. Since the security forces were inadequate in number reinforcements were called for from 182 and 183 Battalions of CRPF, JKP and RR. By first light, reinforcements comprising of Unit QATs of 182 and 183 Bns of CRPF u/c Shri. Kumar Mayank, Second- in-Command 182 Bn, and Shri Anand Kumar, Second-in-Command-183 Bn, additional troops of 55 RR and the civil police arrived and strengthened the cordon. Kumar Mayank and his buddy Asst. Sub-Inspector Ganga Ram and Shri Raj Bardhan, Asst. Comdt, 183 Bn and his buddy Head Constable Surendra Kumar Sharma were also part of the inner cordon. A team of selected officers and jawans of Army, JKP and CRPF, which also included Shri Sikander Yadav and his buddy, were formed to carry out search of the suspected houses. Knowing well, that, there were civilians present in these houses it was decided to evacuate them to safety. Accordingly, the search team tactically approached the suspect house and entered through the window and rescued a civilian who confirmed presence of two terrorists with sophisticated weapons inside the house. Meanwhile, announcements were made repeatedly over the public address system asking the terrorists lay down their arms, but it had no impact. Noticing increased activity of the security forces, the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire which was effectively retaliated by the troops, who had already placed themselves tactically around the target house. Appropriately supported by covering fire, the search team kept moving further unmindful of their personal safety. It was a single storied structure and the terrorists had safely ensconced in the attic and therefore could keep a watch on the activities outside. As the search team reached very close to the target house they were fired upon heavily. Sikander Yadav and his buddy narrowly escaped. Taking appropriate cover the party retaliated with ferocity. Due to the heavy exchange of fire, the attic primarily made of wood caught fire which forced the terrorist to move to down. They continued to fire heavily on the security forces in a desperate attempt to move out. The heavy exchange of fire had halted the progress of the search team. They retreated andPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 947 tactically positioned themselves around the house. In a last ditch effort, the terrorists moved out of the house firing indiscriminately. They were heading in the direction of Head Constable Surendra Kumar Sharma who was in the inner cordon alongwith other members of RR and SOG. Surendra Kumar Sharma was keeping a hawk's eye on the movements of the terrorists. Seeing them approaching, he seized the moment and opened fire on the terrorists. Taken aback by the retaliation, they retreated to the safety of the house. This exchange had perhaps resulted in injury to one of the terrorist. The intermittent exchange of fire lasted for approximately 4 hours. Thereafter a lull descended. When there was no more fire from the target house, it was decided to blow up the house with the help of IEDs. Joint parties were formed for placing IEDs which included troops RR and CRPF. Sikander Yadav and his buddy gave covering fire to these parties leading to successful plantation of IEDs and subsequent demolition of the house. After the structure came down and the flames extinguished, room intervention party of CRPF, JKP and RR led by Sikander Yadav entered the house through a window. The house was like a cauldron on account of the burning embers of the charred remains. As the search parties drew close, one of the terrorists who had cleverly hidden himself under the dead body of his compatriot suddenly fired a volley on the search party. Sikander Yadav and his buddy who were in the lead narrowly escaped this unexpected burst. In a flash, uncaring and unmindful of their own safety the joint party of Sikandra Yadav, Naveen Kumar retaliated fiercely and fired a burst on the terrorist neutralizing him.
During the search dead bodies of two terrorists were recovered who were identified as Abu Dujana Category"A++", Divisional Commander, r/o Pakistan and Arif Nabi Dar Category "B" @ Rehan s/o Gh. Nabi Dar r/o Lelhar Kakapora alongwith one AK-56 Rifle, four AK – 56 Magazine, 50 rds of 7.62x39 ammunition, one Chinese Pistol with magazine and matching ammunition.
In this operation, S/Shri Sikander Yadav, AC, Surendra Kumar Sharma, Head Constable and Naveen Kumar, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 01/08/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 166-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officer of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICER
Shri Pradeep Kumar Pathak Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 30 November 2017 in the wee hours, on a specific input about the movement of terrorists on a hilltop in the area of village Sagipora, under P S-Bomai, P D-Sopore in Dist-Baramulla, a special operation was launched by 9 Para of the Army. During the operation, terrorists opened fire on the troops of 09 Para resulting in bullet injury to a jawan. When the troops of 9 Para retaliated, the terrorists fled downhill in the direction of Kumar Mohalla in Sagipora village. The information was shared by SSP Sopore telephonically with Commandant 92 Bn CRPF at about 1000 hrs, who immediately directed his Quick Action Team (QAT) under the command of Shri. S S Dev, Deputy Commandant to rush to the target area. Acting promptly, the QAT of 92 Bn reached the target area and joined the Special Operations Group of J&K Police and 22 RR in the operation.
After QAT of 92 Bn reached Sagipora village, the joint troops started the search of the village and the adjacent hillocks. In the meantime, additional troops from 92 Bn, 177 Bn & 179 Bn also reached the incident site and laid a tight cordon around the village to prevent the escape of terrorists. While the search was on, terrorist, who had taken the position in a nallah, ran towards the search party of 92 Bn, firing heavily with the intention to intimidate and make good his escape. However, the troops were alert and they retaliated effectively thus foiled his plans. A resultant heavy exchange of fire ensued between the terrorist and the SFs. The terrorist cleverly used the undulating terrain and the natural cover of the nallah to his advantage and kept moving from one point to the other dodging the fire of the SFs.
After a while, during the intermittent exchange of fire, Constable Pradeep Kumar Pathak of QAT 92 Bn noticed that the terrorist was trying to crawl through the nallah to escape from the site. He opened targeted fire towards the terrorist which could not prove effective from his position as the line of sight was not very clear. Gallant men do not allow such opportunities to go in vain. On an impulse, unmindful of his own safety, Constable Pradeep Kumar dashed out of his cover, ran and crawled towards the terrorist and took an appropriate position anticipating the move of the adversary. From this position, he was confident that he would be able to effectively intercept the fleeing terrorist. As anticipated, the terrorist948 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 headed in the direction of Constable Pradeep Kumar firing incessantly. The moment the terrorists came within striking distance, Constable Pradeep Kumar came out of his cover and opened heavy targeted fire with his weapon eliminating the terrorist on the spot.
When everything fell silent and there was no more exchange of fire, a thorough search of the area was carried out, resulting in the recovery of the dead body of one slain terrorist along with one AK-47 rifle, 01 UBGL, 05 magazines, 124 round of ammunition, 03 UBGL rounds and 01 pouch. The slain terrorist was identified as Muzzamil (Category-A++), r/o Pakistan. He was the Divisional Commander of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) in North Kashmir.
In this operation, S/Shri Pradeep Kumar Pathak, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 30/11/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 167-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the President's Police Medal for Gallantry (Postumously)/2nd Bar to Police Medal for Gallantry/Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Sharief –Ud-Din Ganaie PPMG (Posthumously)
Constable
02. Mohd Tafail PPMG (Posthumously)
Head Constable
03. Amar Singh Negi PMG
Dupty Inspector General
04. Naresh Kumar (2nd Bar to PMG)
Assistant Commandant
05. S. Prakash PMG
Constable
06. Jitendra Kumar PMG
Constable
07. Loukrakpam Ibomcha Singh PMG
Assistant Commandant
08. Uttam Raj PMG
Assistant Sub-Inspector
09. Budhi Singh PMG
Constable
10. Zulfqar Ahmed PMG
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
The year 2017 was a landmark in counter-insurgency operations in the Kashmir valley, in that, more than 200 militants were neutralised for the first time in a calendar year in the turbulent history of militancy in the Valley. By the end of the year, the joint operations by the security forces virtually broke the backbone of two major militant organizations namely Lashkar-e-Taiyaba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). In order to overcome this setback the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit took centre stage towards the last quarter of the year with a large influx of foreign militants (FTs) numbering around 36 mainly tasked to carry out fidayeen attacks on the SF camps with the primary motive of inflicting maximum casualties on the troops.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 949The Lethpora camp of CRPF near Awantipora in South Kashmir which is a vulnerable camp, is one of the largest Security Force establishments in the area spread over 131 acres. It is located about three kms in the hinterland from the National Highway. Presently, it houses the Unit Hq of 185 Bn CRPF alongwith two service coys. The camp has a number of multi-storeyed structures including Jawans barracks, Mens' Club, SOs Mess, Office complex, Residential quarters, Hospital block etc. The location is being additionally utilised as Training Node for Kashmir Ops Sector CRPF, wherein, pre-induction training and other refresher courses are organized on regular basis for the personnel of the Ops Sector Units. Inkeeping with the threat perception, the work of security infrastructural upgradation including perimeter fencing of 4.5 kms long boundary wall and the perimeter lighting is in process with CPWD. On account of the vulnerability of the camp to attack by militants, a large number troops are engaged on daily basis for camp security.
On 30th December 2017, intelligence input was received from civil police regarding possibility of a fidayeen attack on the camp in the night. Accordingly, security was beefed up and despite the structural inadequacies, the complete camp was put on high alert. Standing Quick Action Teams (QATs) were also additionally employed as a precautionary measure. Despite all the security measures, at around 0200 hrs, three heavily armed terrorists of JeM outfit sneaked into the campus from the hill side on the north east by breaching the perimeter wall between Morcha No 11 and 12 and moved towards the residential quarters taking advantage of the undulating terrain and vegetation. After scaling the boundary, the terrorists opened fire on the sentries and patrolling party which was retaliated immediately. However, taking advantage of the dim lighting inside the camp and large patch of undulating terrain and shrub vegetation inside the perimeter fencing, the terrorists managed to move further inside and after targeting the sentry placed outside the barracks were successful in moving inside the four-storeyed building of Type 2 and Type 4 Quarters. No. 065343211 Constable Sharief Ud-Din Ganaie of 185 Bn CRPF who was on standby due to security alert alongwith his colleagues in Block No 1 of Type 2 Quarter, immediately swung into action on hearing the gun shots. On account of the large campus, it was difficult to identify the exact location from where the fire and sound of blasts sound were originating. However, in a compelling urge to secure the building, Sharief Ud-Din Ganaie without caring for his life moved out tactically from the quarter to take on the terrorists. As he was moving out, the terrorists who were in the Type 4 quarter located opposite fired across on the Type 2 Quarter. Constable Sharief Ud- Din Ganaie immediately crawled to the open area on the staircase and fired back in the direction from where the fire had come. The terrorists were taken aback by the sudden retaliation. Sharief Ud-Din Ganaie did not stop at this. He ensured safety of his colleagues by directing them not to come out of the rooms and courageously moved all alone close to the iron railing on the staircase to clearly identify the location of the terrorists and on sighting them in the opposite barrack, fired several shots from his rifle. However, in the ensuing gun battle, the militant fired a UBGL at the staircase. Resultantly, Sharief Ud-Din Ganaie received grievous splinter injuries but undeterred he continued to fire till he fell unconscious at the staircase. The terrorists fired indiscriminately and moved to the attic on the top floor of the Type 2 and 4 quarters even as the personnel staying in the barracks closed the doors to prevent any forced entry by the terrorists.
No. 903040734 Asst Sub Inspector Uttam Raj of 185 Bn CRPF alongwith seven jawans was tasked with the Bunker for area security in the open area between Morcha No 9 and Butt Range No 1. On hearing sound of fire and blast in Type 2 & 4 Quarter area, Uttam Raj immediately moved to the area and found Constable Malme Samadhan in an injured condition, from the terrorists' fire. Despite the position of the terrorists being not clear, Uttam Raj subjected himself to grave risk by moving out in the open and without loss of time removed the injured jawan to safe position for administering first-aid. Thereafter, he tactically placed the Bunker in between Type 4 & 5 Quarters. The terrorists sighting the vehicle kept firing on the position which was retaliated effectively by Uttam Raj and his team till reinforcements arrived. In this manner, he engaged the militants for a crucial period in the inception stage which gave time to the personnel to take cover and secure themselves in the quarters.
Immediately on receipt of information regarding fidayeen attack on the CRPF Camp, the Valley QAT from Srinagar and Range QAT of South Kashmir Ops Range (SKOR) and Anantnag were requisitioned and they reported at Lethpora around 0400 hrs. After a briefing by the Camp Comdr and a quick appreciation of the ground situation by the QATs, it was decided to first evacuate the trapped personnel from Type 2 and 4 Quarters by tasking the QATs for room intervention and clearance.
Accordingly Range QAT Anantnag was tasked to clear Block 1 & 2 of Type 4 Quarters in which two personnel of 185 Bn were holed up and required to be rescued. The team led by its scout, No.125075282 Constable Zulfqar Ahmad of 163 Bn (attached with Range QAT Anantnag) cautiously searched and cleared eight quarters from ground to top floor and evacuated some personnel to safety. Now it was clear that the terrorist in Type 4 Quarter was in Block 1 only and had not traversed through the attic. Constable Zulfqar Ahmad alongwith his buddy placed himself tactically at the junction of Block 2 & 3, so as to keep watch on movement of the terrorist and to prevent him from traversing from Block 3 to Block 2 and in case of any such eventuality neutralise him on sighting. This was a very sensitive position as it was squarely in the open on the staircase and there was very high chance of militant firing from the attic in order to make way for his escape. However, there was no alternative but to maintain the position and Zulfqar Ahmad stuck to his task.
950 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1During this period, the Valley QAT led by Shri Naresh Kumar Asst Comdt and Shri L. Ibomcha Singh Asst Comdt alongwith No.045232487 Constable Budhi Singh of 44 Bn CRPF and No.115031994 Constable S Prakash of 43 Bn CRPF (both attached with Valley QAT) simultaneously moved into the ground floor of the first Block of Type II Quarter to retrieve the body of Constable Sharief Ud-Din Ganaie of 185 Bn who had succumbed to his injuries as he valiantly retaliated the terrorist's fire. This was a difficult task as the personnel had to proceed onto the open staircase area which could be easily targeted by the militant hiding in Block 3 of Type 4 Quarter right opposite the block. It was only after sustained efforts and giving appropriate covering fire could the team finally succeed in recovering the body of martyred Constable Sharief Ud-Din Ganaie. After this difficult retrieval Naresh Kumar AC, L. Ibomcha Singh AC alongwith Constable Budhi Singh and No.115031994 Constable S Prakash proceeded to undertake evacuation of about 5-6 personnel trapped in the first two floors of Block 3 of Type 4 Quarters housing Unit Control Room, Signal Centre, Ops Branch and M I Room. This was a very risky task as the team had to traverse between the two quarters on both sides of which terrorists were placed with clear observation and in dominant positions to attack. It so happened that when the team was closing in on Type 4 Quarter, the terrorist positioned in Type 4 Quarter targeted them by firing UBGL and hurled grenade puncturing the BP gypsy in the process. The team was forced to abandon the vehicle and proceeded in the open without any cover to the Type 4 Quarter despite grave threat to their life. After a tedious process of room intervention and clearance, the rescue of trapped personnel including that of Inspector/Crypto Kuldip Roy who was found in an unconscious state and later died due to cardiac arrest was accomplished successfully in the face of heavy odds. Once the evacuation was complete, the Command Post was established in Type 5 Quarter just opposite Block 3 of Type 4 Quarter where one of the terrorist continued to be holed up on the third floor. Thereafter the troops mounted the counter-offensive by firing CGRL and MGL.
Meanwhile, the Type 2 Quarters situated behind the Type 4 had also some occupants in Block 2 who were required to be evacuated. They had been instructed not to move out as position and number of the militants in the block was not clear. No. 920200102 Head Constable Mohd Tafail Ahmad of 185 Bn CRPF was tasked to guard the third floor of Block 2 to prevent any intrusion by terrorists and ensure safety of all inmates in the rooms. His position was vulnerable as it was without any cover and prone to attacks. He was minutely observing and listening to all movements in the vicinity. Around 1030 hrs he sensed some movement in the attic. Without any fear he boldly proceeded with two of his colleagues to check the attic and clear the same. As he moved in the front position, he sighted one terrorist hiding in the attic and challenged him. It was a rare front to front fight in which Head Constable Md Tafail Ahmad did not blink. Both opened fire on each other. However, the terrorist being in an advantageous position at the top was able to inflict lethal hits on Md Tafail Ahmad who went down fighting gallantly till his last breath. In his valiant act, Md Tafail Ahmad had exposed the position of the hidden terrorist and managed to save many personnel from the stealth attack planned by him.
The immediate neutralization of the militant hiding in the attic in Block 2 of Type 2 Quarter was extremely crucial now, as, he was in a position to target personnel holed up in the rooms on both sides. In order to deal with this situation, around 1045 hrs, it was decided to evacuate the trapped personnel numbering about twenty from Type 2 Quarter by tasking Range QAT SKOR and Anantnag. Accordingly, both the QAT Comdrs were briefed by DIG SKOR and Anantnag near Mens' Club about 100 metres from the target building. Range QAT Anantnag was tasked to clear Block 1 & 2 of the building and Range QAT SKOR was tasked to clear Block 3. After the briefing both the QATs commenced their task u/c of their respective Comdrs. Range QAT of SKOR moved from Block 3 upwards and Range QAT Anantnag moved from Block 1 in similar manner. SKOR QAT Comdr Shri Zile Singh Asst Comdt was in the lead with Constable Rajendra Kumar Nain (carrying a heavy Bullet Proof (BP) shield) and No. 145081561 Constable Jitendra Kumar of 180 Bn. After rescuing about ten personnel from the second and third floor of Block 3 to secured positions, in which Constable Jitendra Kumar played a crucial role, the team decided to traverse to Block 2. As soon as the SKOR QAT reached the door on the third floor leading to the attic, the terrorist hiding inside, fired a burst from his AK-47 rifle. There was exchange of fire from both sides and QAT Comdr and his buddy responded gallantly. However, one bullet fired by the terrorist which happened to be an Armour Piercing Incendiary (API) bullet went through the BP shield of Rajendra Kumar Nain who was leading in the forefront and hit him in the upper part of the chest. The BP shield dropped onto the floor and Constable Nain slumped down on the floor right in front of the attic door. Without wasting any time and without caring for his life, Jitendra Kumar moved close to the door and gave covering fire to prevent the terrorist from causing further injury to Constable Rajendra Nain and in the process enabling QAT Comdr to pull him to safer position on the staircase. Constable Jitendra Kumar did not leave his perilous position and continued to engage the terrorist, due to which he could not fire UBGL or lob grenades at the staircase which could have caused grave damage to troops lined up for action there. Meanwhile, the QAT Comdr sought immediate help on wireless set. There was panic all around. This was an extremely difficult situation as the terrorist had hit twice in a short duration. Everybody was restless and uneasy.
At this point, Shri A S Negi, DIG SKOR and Incharge of Range QAT despite the looming grave threat in the building moved in a flash, took his personal weapon, put on the BP Patka and galloped upstairs in Block 3 to assist the QAT Comdr. Midway he met Zile Singh, boosted his morale and together they moved ahead to the top floor. Firstly, Shri A S Negi, DIG alongwith Constable Jitendra Kumar evacuated the injured Constable Rajendra Nain for urgent medical aid. AfterPART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 951 a quick appreciation of the situation, he took the initiative and under covering fire by Jitendra Kumar boldly moved to the very door of the attic along with Shri Zile Singh. It was a dangerous act, as the militant could have thrown a grenade or fired a UBGL. However, there was no option but to move close to identify his exact location and neutralise him as he was hiding behind a cemented barricade in the attic and continuously firing. In a quick synchronised final act Shri A S Negi fired a volley and without caring for his life quickly moved near the water tank inside the attic. This provided a momentary distraction for the injured terrorist and the QAT Comdr seized the opportunity to target him when he moved from his position. In the joint action, he was neutralised within seconds. It was an act of rare gallantry one could have witnessed in such a piquant situation as it changed the very complexion of the tense situation and the troops were upbeat on the neutralization of the terrorist. This paved the way for further counter action. The neutralized terrorist was identified as Manzoor Ahmad Baba r/o Drabgam, Pulwama. The QAT continued its task further and cleared Block 2 after traversing from the attic and moving top down. In the process the team lead by Shri A S Negi alongwith Jitendra Kumar retrieved the body of Head Constable Mohd Tafail Ahmad who had eventually succumbed after fighting gallantly with the terrorist hiding in the attic.
No sooner was this ordeal over that around 1230 hrs, information was received regarding sighting of one militant in the terrain inside the perimeter near Morcha No 12. The valley QAT team was directed to reach the site and engage the terrorist. The team comprising Naresh Kumar AC, L. Ibomcha Singh AC alongwith Constable Budhi Singh, Constable S Prakash and Asst Sub Inspector Uttam Raj immediately responded for the objective. As they closed in on the location, the militant fired a burst on the BP Bunker from his automatic weapon in which one API round pierced through the BP Bunker and hit Constable Malla Ram of 49 Bn positioned inside, causing minor injury to him in the process. The team instantly got down from the vehicle as it could not proceed further due to the undulating terrain. The terrorist was hiding in the uneven open area of the Firing Range and firing continuously. No effective cover was available to approach him without grave risk to life. Unconcerned on the harsh ground realities, Naresh Kumar, L. Ibomcha Singh alongwith Budhi Singh, S Prakash and Uttam Raj proceeded in the open adopting fire and move tactics and using whatever little cover the terrain could afford. As they closed in, the terrorist hurled grenades. Budhi Singh fired MGL at the militant's hiding position due to which he was forced to move out. No sooner was he sighted than Naresh Kumar and S. Prakash with covering fire support from L. Ibomcha Singh, Uttam Raj and Budhi Singh uncaring for their life seized the opportunity, got close and neutralized the terrorist instantaneously. The killed terrorist was identified as Fardeen Ahmad Khandey s/o Ghulam Mohiuddin Khandey r/o Tral, Pulwama.
After attending the task, the Valley QAT fell back to Quarter No 4 where rescue of the trapped personnel had been accomplished, but the terrorist continued to occupy top floor of the third block. Efforts were made to bring down a part of the building with the help of IED, but it did not yield the desired result. Thereafter, flame thrower (Agni Varsha) was also pressed into service but in the absence of any incendiary material in the rooms, it failed to catch fire. Therefore, around 1700 hrs after a conscious decision, the team comprising of Naresh Kumar AC, L. Ibomcha Singh AC alongwith Constables Budhi Singh, S Prakash and P K Panda were assigned the onerous task of room intervention and clearance from ground floor to the top. The team passed through a wearisome process in which the ground and first two floors were cleared. Thereafter Constable P.K. Panda alongwith his buddy Constable S. Prakash audaciously entered the block on the left side of the top floor after hurling a grenade inside the room. However, as they moved into another room, the terrorist hiding in a corner fired upon them primarily targeting Constable P K Panda who fired back immediately. Undeterred by the sudden attack, Shri Naresh Kumar and Constable S. Prakash also retaliated instantaneously by firing a hail of bullets in that direction to pin down the terrorist. Simultaneously, L. Ibomcha Singh and Budhi Singh without caring for their lives made several attempts to get injured P K Panda to safe position. In the end the joint effort by the team helped to restrict the terrorist from moving out to a dominating position from where he could have caused further injuries besides that caused to Constable P K Panda. However, under the circumstances, the team had no option but to make a tactical withdrawal.
Sensing grenade attack by the security forces, the terrorist quickly moved into the toilet block and kept firing from the small vent in the wall. The toilet block wall was breached by firing Rocket Launcher (RL) but the adversary further moved to the rear of the building and remained quiet in order to maintain his safe position. Since the visibility was low by now and night was fast approaching, the operation was suspended after lighting the site and placing BP Bunkers as cut off around the target building with troops in ready position.
At first light, the following morning i.e. 01 Jan 2018, the operation was resumed. Range QAT Comdr Anantnag placed two best shots on the second floor of Block 1 of Type 2 Quarter, which was overlooking the third block of Type 4 Quarter where the militant was holed up. There was a strong possibility of his moving to the rear in order to escape the thrust of RL being fired from Type 5 Quarter in the front. Therefore, QAT Comdr detailed Constable Zulfqar Ahmad with his buddy for the task. Subsequently, directional IED was placed to blow of the third block of Type 4 Quarter in which Zulfqar Ahmad alongwith his buddy provided effective covering fire. However, the IED blast did not have the required effect even though the base was weakened. Thereafter, RL was fired to breach the wall. After some effort the second wall inside the room was also broken. During this intervention UAV was pressed into service and when it closed in on the target house, it952 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 was fired upon by the terrorist revealing and confirming his position. In the process, he was forced to shift to the rear of the building, upon which he sighted the position held by Constable Zulfqar Ahmad hardly 20 metres away. Sensing threat he fired a burst at that position. However, Zulfqar Ahmad who had his eyes firmly fixed on the balcony, ducked in time and saved himself from the volley of fire but with similar alacrity without caring for his life, he immediately retaliated and fired back at the militant. Resultantly, the militant slumped to the ground and tried to fire back but got caught in the twin fire from both sides.
Around 1300 hrs on 1st Jan 2018, dead body of the slain terrorist was confirmed in the building. Valley QAT led by Shri Naresh Kumar, AC thereafter moved inside and tactically retrieved the body of martyred Constable P K Panda and that of the militant, a Foreign Terrorist who remained unidentified. After this, a complete search of all the buildings was organized by assigning tasks to the QATs and the operational site was marked out of bound as there was likely presence of unexploded ordnance which could be cleared only subsequently by the BDD team. The recoveries from the encounter site included 03 AK-47 rifles, 11 AK-47 magazines, UBGL 01, HE Grenade 04, some live amm, pouches and flag of JeM. The operation wound up around 1730 hrs.
Operation Lethpora was one of the most daunting and challenging operations which continued for more than 36 hours and was accomplished successfully by CRPF on its own. The operation was replete with numerous challenges including the logistical constraints, the enormous and knotty terrain area in which the terrorists were required to be dealt with, the tedious and the daunting rescue of scores of trapped Force personnel in the buildings and overcoming of the initial casualties. The achievement of the Force in neutralizing the three dreaded militants can be attributed to the tremendous grit, determination, exemplary valour and never say die spirit of the members of the CRPF Valley QAT and the Range QATs of Awantipora and Anantnag. The primary architects of the momentous operation were Shri Amar Singh Negi, DIG South Kashmir Ops Range (SKOR), Shri Naresh Kumar, Asst Comdt, 79 Bn CRPF, No. 115031994 Constable S. Prakash, 43 Bn CRPF, No. 145081561 Constable Jitendra Kumar, 180 Bn CRPF, No. 065343211 Late Constable Sharief Ud-Din Ganaie, 185 Bn CRPF and No. 920200201 Late Head Constable Mohd Tafail Ahmad, 185 Bn CRPF. The above-mentioned officers/men provided the main thrust in the operation and played a lead role in taking the operation to its conclusive stage. They were truly the vanguards of the operation. Besides, the above, Shri L. Ibomcha Singh, Asst Comdt, 29 Bn CRPF, No.903040734 Asst Sub Inspector Uttam Raj, 185 Bn CRPF, No.045232487 Constable Budhi Singh, 44 Bn CRPF and No.125075282 Constable Zulfqar Ahmad, 163 Bn CRPF also played a very crucial role in providing the necessary support and impetus in defining the situation to the best advantage of the Force. Inspite of the continuing uncertainty in the operation, with regard to the number of the militants and their locations till the very end, the fact that they were heavily armed and continuously firing API rounds, the above-mentioned officers and men remained undeterred in the forefront of action without caring for their lives and personal safety. Their courageous intervention helped in timely evacuation of a large number of personnel from the barracks thereby saving valuable lives.
In this operation, S/Shri Late Sharief –Ud-Din Ganaie, Constable, Late Mohd Tafail, Head Constable, Amar Singh Negi, Dupty Inspector General, Naresh Kumar, Assistant Commandant, S. Prakash, Constable, Jitendra Kumar, Constable, Loukrakpam Ibomcha Singh, Assistant Commandant, Uttam Raj, Assistant Sub-Inspector, Budhi Singh, Constable and Zulfqar Ahmed, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 31/12/2017.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
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No. 168-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Prateek Gulia
Assistant Commandant
02. Shivpal Uikey
Constable
03. Tapas Ghosh
ConstablePART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 953 04. Milan Singh Netam
Constable
05. K Bireswor Singha
Constable
06. Sumit Kumar Sub-Inspector
07. Surender
Head Constable
08. Shyamapada Ray Constable
09. Saroj Kumar Mohapatra
Constable
10. Santosh Uikey Constable
11. Neelu Babu
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On 21/11/2016, based on an information about the presence of senior Maoists leaders of BJSAC including Arvindjee @ Dev Kumar, Sudhakar, Deepak Khairwar, Nakul Yadav A/W 30-35 armed cadres in the adjoining forest area of Vill- Karamdih, Nawarnagu and Khamikhas under PS-Chhipadohar, Distt-Latehar, an operation was planned by the 209 CoBRA and State Police to nab the Maoists. This area has strategic importance due to its locatiori being in the border areas of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. The hilly terrain, rough gradients, steep cliffs overlooking distant places, dense vegetation with tracts of broken land, perennial flowing Koyal river makes the area tough and challenging for conducting operations there into. To carry out this daunting & challenging task, the responsibility was assigned to two Strike Groups and one SAT (Special Action Team) of 209 CoBRA under over all supervision of Sh. Kamlesh Singh, Comdt. Strike-I, led by Sh. Rajwinder Singh AC and Strike-II led by Shri Vikash Jakhar, AC was tasked to hit the target area whereas SAT U/C Sh. Avigyan Kumar, Dy. Comdt. with 14 Commandos was deployed at base camp to provide backup support and facilitate communication. Strike I & II consisted 49 commandos including Shri Prateek Gulia, Assistant Commandant.
As per the plan, both the Strikes and SAT left HQ (Khunti) on 21/11/16 at about 1830 hrs and de-bussed at around 2330 hrs at the pre-decided place (Strike — 01 debussed near Morwai Village and Strike-2 debussed near Ladi Village) on 21/11/16. SAT was placed at Labhar CRPF base camp. After de-bussing, the troops advanced towards target area cautiously, to avoid the early warning systems and maze of IEDs planted. On 22/11/16 around 0930 hrs the scout of team no-10, CT/GD Shivpal Uikey observed some suspicious movement (which was almost 700 meters from his position) of around 08-10 people crossing the river North Koel from North to South. Immediately he informed his section commander SI/GD Md. Riyaz Alam Ansari and team commander Sh. Vikash Jakhar, AC who, in turn, confirmed the situation using binocular and spotted few suspects in black uniform with arms. He alerted the troops and formed a small team of selected 12 commandos including Prateek Gulia, AC and SI/GD Sumit Kumar to intercept the Maoists. The small team rushed towards the Maoist's position without caring for impending threats. On reaching the spot, the team tactically covered the area and searched it thoroughly and found tell-tale signs of Maoists presence and traces of momentary halt of 10-15 men. The developments were communicated to Commandant-209 CoBRA.
Teams took a tactical halt for the night in between North Koel River and Viii-Karamdih. The developments were indicative of a possible encounter with the Maoists. To prepare the teams for the emerging situation, Shri Vikas Jakhar, AC made a plan in consultation with his team. He formed 3 teams from the available strength; two teams to search the area between the village and river and one team to cover the rear flank. Accordingly, two teams started searching the area at around 0430 hrs on 23/11/2016 as planned. Team of Shri Vikash Jakhar, AC was searching the area towards eastern side whereas the second team U/C Prateek Gulia at the western side. At around 0730 hrs, the Scout group, comprising SI/GD Md. Riyaz Alam Ansari, CT/GD Shivpal Uikey & CT/GD Tapas Ghosh, slightly veered into the river bed, approx. 30 meter inside from the forest patch, when they came under a heavy volley of fire. As was expected, Maoists probably had noticed the presence of SFs and were prepared to attack them. Maoists, from their well-occupied defense, opened indiscriminate fire upon the troops from across the river. Acting promptly, the scout group responded immediately, maneuvered their position to take cover in sand pits. Meanwhile, Sh. Vikash Jakhar, AC spotted 04 Maoists, who were firing from behind the sand dune in954 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 the midst of the river. He challenged the armed Maoists to surrender, but they increased the volume of fire. Finding no other option troops also retaliate with directional fire in self-defense. Meanwhile, the situation was communicated to base camp.
Shri Vikash Jakhar AC led his team to cover the left flank and directed to Shri Prateek Gulia, AC to cover the right flank. Shri Prateek Gulia, AC, on getting direction from Shri Vikas Jakhar, AC sprang out of his position and led his team valiantly amid raining bullets, to cover the right flank from the western direction. The scout group was under direct and heavy fire from Maoist and needed immediate support. Sensing the urgency, Sh. Vikash Jakhar, AC rose to the occasion and launched the counter attack from the left flank with CT/GD Saroj Kumar Mahapatra, Ct/GD Milan Singh Netam, and CT/GD Shayampada Ray. Simultaneously, he directed HC/GD Surender to augment the scout group in their retaliation. Troops from both the flanks, confronting the impending threats, moving through open patch of the river bed amid firing, slogged towards the Maoists to support their trapped Scout group.
Seeing the troops encircling them, the-Maoists increased the volume of fire on both the flanks. At this juncture, troops were having no cover from bullets, being in open patch. However, Shri Vikas Jakhar, AC and Shri Parteek Gulia, AC with his team, sneering all the risk aside, reached close to the Maoists from the flanks and launched an aggressive onslaught. Around this time, getting support from both the flanks, trapped scout group led by SI/GD Md. Riyaz Alam Ansari charged on the Maoists and advanced towards them using field craft. Soon these Maoists were encircled, with retaliatory fire from the both flanks and front direction as well. This audacious action of the troops forced the Maoists to retreat from their position. Before troops could chase the Maoists, they were awestricken by the sudden attack from the Maoists; positioned behind the boulders and trees across the North Koel river. Using the opportunity, the Maoists, who were behind the sand wall, rushed back to their side. Maoists were firing indiscriminately using sophisticated weapons including LMGs. On the other side, both the flanking troops were having no significant cover against the bullets. Sensing the gravity of the situation, Sh Vikash Jakhar ordered CT/GD Shaympada Ray to launch counter attack through his LMG to suppress the Maoist's fire. The concentrated fire from LMG deadened the Maoist fire for a while. However, both the team commanders were aware that they could not hold the situation for a long due to tactically volatile position of their troops. The prevailing situation had left only two options, either to retreat or to launch a daring counter offensive against the adversaries. Between the two, the troops chose the later; glory and bravery. It was a daunting move to rush across the river, in open patch that too amidst the heavy firing from the Maoists which could have resulted in fatalities. Stepping all threats aside, in a do or die situation, throwing all cautions to air, Sh. Vikash Jakhar, AC, and Sh Prateek Gulia launched a ferocious counter offensive against the Maoists, with their daring commandos. Troops came out of their cover firing on the Maoists and rushed towards the other side of the river employing heavy fire power, supported with UBGL and HE bomb. At the same time, SI/GD Md. Riyaz Alam Ansari, CT/GD Shivpal Uikey, CT/GD Tapas Ghosh and HC/GD Surender continued their frontal attack on the Maoists in front of them. They neutralized one of the Maoists in the mid of the river. Further, one more Maoist got trapped in the firing zone of the left flank u/c Sh. Vikash Jakhar, AC and got neutralized by them. By this time, the other two Maoists; running back sideways while firing at our troops, had almost crossed the river, when they were hit by the troops and fell down on the other side of the bank. One of the injured managed to crawl to a boulder near the bank of the river, positioned himself behind it and started firing back on the advancing troops, who had entered into the current of North Koel river. Injured Maoist's position was exposed to the troops at the right flank. Sensing the opportunity, Sh. Parteek Gulia, AC with SI/GD Sumit Kumar fired upon the injured Maoist and neutralized him.
The fearless move of the troops with heavy fire power, supported by the UBGL and HE bombs, stunned the Maoists. The troops continued targeted directional fire, giving little time/opportunity to the Maoists on the other side to react effectively. Around this time, both the flanks had crossed the river and positioned them behind the available covers. While taking cover, the team of Sh. Parteek Gulia, AC was fired upon by the Maoists, from a forested patch to their right side in which they had a narrow escape. Acting promptly, Sh. Parteek Gulia, AC along with SI/GD Sumit Kumar, CT/GD Santosh Uikey, CT/GD K. Bireswor Singha and CT/GD Neelu Babu fired upon the Maoists, followed by UBGL shells. This counter offensive forced the Maoist to leave their fortified position and also the dead body of one of their cadres. Meanwhile on the other side, finding SFs close to their position, Maoists lobbed a hand grenade towards the team of Sh Vikash Jakhar, AC, which blasted near them, but, due to quick reflexes and prompt action by the troops, could not cause any damage. Without giving any further opportunity to Maoists, Sh. Vikash Jakhar with CT/GD Milan Singh Netam and CT/GD Saroj Kumar Mohapatra charged on the Maoists at close quarter. The ferocious assault devastated the Maoist's defense and silenced their action. They fled away leaving one of their dead cadres behind.
This intense and fierce gun battle continued for around 20 minutes, in which troops braved the bullets while negotiating around 200-Meter-wide patch of the North Koel river ignoring the impending threat to their lives. The troops chased the fleeing Maoists. Intermittent firing continued for around 90 minutes. Finally, sensing the extreme aggression and counter offensive from the SFs, the Maoists fled away taking the cover of the thick forest, leaving behind their dead cadres, a huge cache of explosive/arms/ammunition and their belongings. By this time, Strike-1, consisting team no-1 & 16, had also reached on the northern side of the river. A thorough search of the encounter site led to the recovery of 6 dead bodies, 7 weapons and a lot of assorted ammunition. Interrogation report of surrendered Maoists and interception by lB Ranchi confirmed the killing of one more lady Maoist namely Anup-riya of Vill-Kumari, PS-Bishnupur, DistGumla in this encounter.
PART I—SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) 955During the operation, the troops fought a pitched battle and displayed the conspicuous act of bravery under grave and imminent threat to their lives. This unwavering commitment to mission that too in a hostile environment, is a tale of sheer courage and glory. The thunderous and decisive message delivered through action, by the CoBRA troops, has spirited the morale of the Security Forces operating in Maoist theatre.
In this operation, S/Shri Prateek Gulia, AC, Shivpal Uikey, Constable, Tapas Ghosh, Constable, Milan Singh Netam, Constable, K Bireswor Singha, Constable, Sumit Kumar, Sub-Inspector, Surender, Head Constable, Shyamapada Ray, Constable, Saroj Kumar Mohapatra, Constable, Santosh Uikey, Constable and Neelu Babu, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 23/11/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
——————
No. 169-Pres/2018—The President is pleased to award the Police Medal for Gallantry to the under mentioned officers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF):—
NAME & RANK OF THE OFFICERS
S/Shri
01. Mithilesh Kumar
Assistant Commandant
02. Vishwadeep Kapil
Assistant Commandant
03. Kannan K Constable
04. Mrityunjoy Debnath
Constable
05. Jayanta Sen
Constable
Statement of service for which the decoration has been awarded
On receipt of Intelligence inputs about the presence of dreaded Maoist leader Aashish (BJSAC Member, Rs. 25 Lakhs rewardee) along with 20-25 armed cadres in the dense forest area of Vill-Boradih, under PS-Palkot, Dist Gumla, a surgical operation was planned and launched by Special Action Teams of 209 CoBRA. Striking the Maoist group in their own den, was a challenging task considering the distance that the troops had to negotiate, early warning system of Maoists which had to be outwitted, heavily mined approach routes to be traversed and the tactically placed sentries to be deceived apart from complexity of navigation in peak monsoon season in hilly undulating heavy vegetated terrain. To maintain speed, surprise, and secrecy during the task, it was decided to conduct the surgical operation with small teams and hence 03 Special Action Teams (SAT) of 209 CoBRA were assigned the task to carry out the operation.
Accordingly, two special action teams (SAT-I & SAT-II) of 209 CoBRA under command of Sh. Mithilesh Kumar, AC, and Sh. Vishwadeep Kapil, AC, each with the strength of 08 troops (AC-01,SI/GD-01,CT/GD-06) were tasked to strike at the Maoists, whereas, SAT-III (Comdt-01,SI-01,HC/R0-01,CT/GD06) U/C Sh Kamlesh Singh, Commandant was deployed to provide support during operation. On 11/09/2016, SAT,s moved out for the target area using civil pattern light vehicles and get dropped at a secluded place approx 05 Km north of target area at about 1130 hrs. From there onwards troops moved on foot, stealthily, inside the jungle. The troops had to navigate through the patches covered with thick foliage, water bodies and hilly terrain swiftly to attain the objective of the operation. In such insurmountable terrain, troops were moving parallel in mutual support and meticulously scanning the jungle area to locate the Maoists or their tell-tale signs.
On 11/09/16, at about 1315 hrs, teams reached in the vicinity of the target area and after securing a small hill-lock troops kept the area under observation for apposite appreciation. At about 1445 hrs while troops were scaling down treacherous slopes and further negotiating open marshy land, Maoists, holding defended position behind the boulders & huge trees, resorted to indiscriminate fire on advancing troops. SAT troops got trapped in Maoists killing zone in an open area having fewer covers to occupy. Acting promptly, troops swung into action and retaliated to Maoists fire despite being in less numbers than Maoists. A grueling encounter ensued between the troops and Maoists. To encircle the SAT troops, who were less in numbers, Maoists got divided into small groups and started covering the dominating features around the encounter site. Using pre-occupied covers, Maoists maneuvered to flank the striking troops. In such life threatening situation, with few choices and less time Sh. Mithilesh Kumar, AC, with CT/GD Mrityunjoy Debnath engaged the Maoists in a head-on battle. Meanwhile Sh. Vishwadeep Kapil, AC, with CT Kannan K and CT Jayanta Sen advanced to engage other Maoists group who956 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, DECEMBER 22, 2018 (PAUSA 1, 1940) [PART I—SEC. 1 were trying to encircle the troops. Amidst raining bullets, Sh. Mithilesh Kumar reached close to Maoists position. Finding troops at such a close distance, Maoist lobbed one hand grenade targeting Sh. Mithilesh Kumar, AC, but he scraped through using his battle acumen. Thwarting Maoists offensive Sh. Mithilesh Kumar, AC, attacked Maoists more fiercely. On the other side, undaunted to the Maoists firing, Sh.Vishwadeep Kapil, AC, and CT Kannan K took Maoists in head-on battle while CT Jayanta Sen scaled the opposite spur and engaged the Maoists at close range. Displaying extraordinary courage and tactical supremacy, Sh. Mithilesh Kumar, AC, and Sh. Vishwadeep Kapil, AC with their brave troopers not only retaliated to Maoists offensive but kept on advancing to capture the Maoists. The valorous act of the troops repelled the Maoists from their fortified positions. Firing continued till 1530 hrs. During post encounter search, troops recovered one Maoist dead body, later identified as Aashish@Bijendra Yadav, BJSAC member (Rs 25 Lakhs rewardee), along with INSAS rifle from the encounter site. Besides, troops also recovered 01 SLR, 01 Springfield (US rifle), assorted ammunition, Hand Grenade and other miscellaneous items from the encounter site.
In the operation, troops have shown unwavering commitment for accomplishing the assigned mission in a hostile environment; a saga of sheer courage and glory. A handful spirited Jungle Warriors stunned and foiled Maoists nefarious design.
1. Weapons-
A) INSAS
: 01
B) SLR
: 01
C) Spring field
: 01
Magazine
A ) INSAS : 04
B) SLR : 01
2. Ammunition (live Round)
A) INSA
: 186
B) SLR : 13
C) Spring field : 79
D) .202 : 01
3. Empty case
A) 7.62x39 mm (AK-47) : 05
B) INSAS
: 03
C) SLR
: 01
D) Spring field
: 02
4. Detonator
A) Electric
: 05
B) Non Electric
: 09
In this operation, S/Shri Mithilesh Kumar, AC, Vishwadeep Kapil, AC, Kannan K,Constable, Mrityunjoy Debnath, Constable and Jayanta Sen, Constable displayed conspicuous gallantry, courage and devotion of duty of a higher 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 11/09/2016.
P PRAVEEN SIDDHARTH Officer on Special Duty
महाप्रबंधक, भारत सरकार मुद्रणालय, मिंटो रोड, नई दिल्ली-110002 द्वारा अपलोड एवं प्रकाशन नियंत्रक, दिल्ली-110054 द्वारा ई-प्रकाशित UPLOADED BY THE GENERAL MANAGER, GOVT. OF INDIA PRESS, MINTO ROAD, NEW DELHI-110002 AND E-PUBLISHED BY THE CONTROLLER OF THE PUBLICATIONS, DELHI-110054