Naik C P Dahal SM

Born and raised in Budhabare village, situated in Jhapa district of Nepal, Naik Chitan Parshad Dahal was nurtured in an environment rich with cultural heritage, community values, and a longstanding tradition of military service. This background cultivated in him a deep sense of duty towards his homeland. Choosing a path of service, Nk CP Dahal enlisted in the Indian Army, specifically with the 12th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (12 JAK LI). This esteemed regiment is celebrated for its remarkable history and valour, being an integral part of India’s military legacy. The JAK LI has a distinct ethos that honours the diverse cultural and martial traditions of Jammu and Kashmir. Throughout its existence, it has consistently demonstrated exceptional bravery in combat and humanitarian missions, showcasing a commitment to national integrity and the welfare of communities

By joining the 12 JAK LI, Nk CP Dahal not only embraced a life dedicated to service but also aligned himself with a unit that symbolizes resilience and honour. His journey in the regiment underlines the significance of such historic battalions in providing security and stability within the region. Nk Dahal became involved in various operations that demanded not just physical strength but also mental fortitude and strategic acumen, embodying the qualities inherent in a soldier. 

Battle of Point 4812 (Kargil War): 01 July 1999

During the critical phase of June and July 1999, Naik Chitan Parshad Dahal’s unit was deployed in the Batalik sector of Ladakh as part of "Operation Vijay," the Indian Army’s strategic offensive aimed at reclaiming territories that had been occupied by Pakistani forces. His unit operated under the command of the 70 Infantry Brigade, which fell under the larger operational control of the 3 Infantry Division. The context for this military engagement began earlier in May 1999, when Pakistani forces crossed the Line of Control (LOC) into Indian territory, establishing fortified positions in key locations such as Mushkoh, Dras, Kaksar, and Batalik. These incursions extended between 4 to 8 kilometers into Indian territory, creating a pressing need for a counter-offensive, particularly because the enemy had entrenched itself in positions that were highly resistant to both artillery and air strikes. Consequently, direct ground assaults by infantry troops emerged as the only feasible option to dislodge the entrenched adversaries.

Among these critical missions was the assault on the strategically vital Point 4812 in the Batalik sector, assigned to the 12th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (12 JAK LI) on the night of June 30 to July 1, 1999. The operation was spearheaded by Captain Keishing Clifford Nongrum, with Naik CP Dahal and a handful of other courageous soldiers forming the core of the assault team. Regaining control over this territory was essential not only for the immediate strategic landscape but also for boosting morale across Indian forces engaged in the Kargil War. The night of the assault proved to be fraught with challenges. Nk CP Dahal and his comrades began their perilous climb toward the enemy-occupied peak, approaching from the southeastern direction. The harsh weather and treacherous terrain tested their limits, yet the team executed their movement with precision and stealth, aiming to avoid detection until they were within striking distance of the enemy positions. Upon reaching the summit, they encountered formidable resistance from entrenched enemy forces, who were securely positioned within an elaborate network of bunkers meticulously carved into the rocky terrain. These fortifications had been engineered to withstand direct artillery fire, thereby necessitating a close-quarters combat approach.

For nearly two hours, the Indian soldiers faced a hail of relentless automatic fire, becoming increasingly pinned down and unable to advance. Understanding the urgency of the situation, Captain Nongrum exhibited extraordinary bravery and initiated a bold maneuver. With great determination, he charged through the fire zone, hurling grenades into the enemy bunkers. His audacious actions momentarily disoriented the enemy, providing his troops with a critical opportunity to close in for a decisive engagement. Inspired by their leader’s fearless example, Nk CP Dahal and his fellow soldiers surged forward with remarkable grit and resolve, eventually overpowering the entrenched positions. However, bravery came at a high price. During the intense exchange of gunfire, Naik CP Dahal suffered severe injuries yet continued to fight valiantly until he ultimately succumbed to them. Alongside him, Captain Nongrum, Havildar Abdul Kareem, Havildar Daler Singh Bhou, Lance Havildar Yougal Kishor, Naik Surjeet Singh, Rifleman Mohd Fareed, and Rifleman Rattan Chand. Days later, on July 3rd, Lance Naik Mohd Aslam, who had been critically wounded, also succumbed to his injuries and was martyred. Naik Chitan Parshad Dahal was awarded the "Sena Medal" for his commendable gallantry, devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice.

Naik Chitan Parshad Dahal is survived by his wife Smt Chandra Kumari.