October 21: Police Commemoration Day

National Police Commemoration Day is observed every year on October 21, in India. This day is dedicated to the sacrifices of ten policemen, who died in Chinese firing in the year 1959.

Background

On October 21, 1959, Chinese troops threw grenades and opened fire at twenty Indian soldiers in Ladakh. Out of them, ten brave police personnel attained martyrdom while seven others sustained injuries in that incident. A month later, on November 28, 1959, dead bodies of the martyred policemen were handed over to India by the Chinese troops. Their cremation was held at the Hot springs in North Eastern Ladakh, with full Police honours. Since then, October 21 is observed as “Police Commemoration Day”.

Police Commemoration Day parade

National level Police Commemoration Day Parade is held at the Police Memorial, Chanakyapuri, since the year 2012.

Significance of the Day

The day has become more significant in the aftermath of Covid-19 pandemic. Ever since the COVID-19 outbreak in India in 2020, Indian police officers have been on the frontline along with healthcare officials. Several police officers lost their life while discharging their duties