Appeal for war memorial in Sarkaghat to honour martyrs
Captain Jagdish Verma (retd), chairman of the United Front of Ex-Servicemen (JCOs & OR), Himachal Pradesh, has called for the establishment of a war memorial in Sarkaghat to honour the region’s martyrs. Soldiers from areas such as Baldwara, Dharampur, Sandhol and Tihra made the ultimate sacrifice in wars of 1962, 1965, 1971, the Kargil conflict and the ongoing battle against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
Captain Verma emphasised that these soldiers sacrificed their lives to secure the nation’s future, and it is the moral responsibility of the people of Sarkaghat to ensure their sacrifices are remembered. He proposed a permanent memorial to preserve their legacy for future generations.
During a recent meeting in Sarkaghat, members of the United Front of Ex-Servicemen unanimously decided to submit a formal proposal to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). The proposal suggests renaming the Central Park, located behind the Mini-Secretariat near the Old Bus Stand, as “War Memorial Park.” It also includes plans for installing a statue of a soldier with an inverted rifle and a war helmet—a universal symbol of sacrifice—alongside Italian marble plaques inscribed with the names and ranks of the martyrs. Captain Verma revealed that a formal letter has already been sent to the SDM, requesting approval and funding for the project. Additionally, a copy of the appeal has been forwarded to Col. Dhani Ram Sandil (retd), the Minister for Health and Sainik Welfare in the Himachal Pradesh Government, urging him to allocate the necessary funds.
The establishment of this war memorial is seen as a crucial step in recognising the valour and dedication of Sarkaghat’s soldiers. It aims to ensure their sacrifices remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come. The United Front of Ex-Servicemen’s efforts reflect their commitment to honouring the heroes who gave their lives for the country’s security and freedom.
