Rifleman Chhagan Singh VrC

Rifleman Chhagan Singh hailed from Lutu village in Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, and was born on January 14, 1946, to Shri Ram Ratan Singh and Smt Laxmi Devi. After completing his school education, he decided to dedicate his life to serving the nation by joining the Indian Army. He was recruited into the 12th Rajputana Rifles Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles Regiment, one of the oldest and most illustrious regiments of the Indian Army. The regiment, headquartered in New Delhi, was initially raised as the 31 Rajputana Rifles on January 15, 1968, and later re-designated as the 12 Rajputana Rifles on February 23, 1971. Known for his dedication and discipline, Rifleman Chhagan Singh quickly became a dependable and committed soldier in his unit.

By 1971, Rifleman Chhagan Singh had gained significant military experience, earning the respect of his peers and superiors for his steadfastness and professionalism. That year marked a crucial time for India, as the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 unfolded, culminating in the liberation of Bangladesh. His unit, the 12 Rajputana Rifles, was deployed on the Eastern front, where the war saw some of its most intense and decisive battles. The Eastern Theatre was central to India’s strategy, as the Indian Army provided vital support to the Mukti Bahini in their struggle against the oppressive regime of West Pakistan. Rifleman Chhagan Singh’s battalion played a critical role in this effort, undertaking several high-stakes missions that required extraordinary courage and resolve. fter a few years of dedicated service, Rifleman Chhagan Singh married Ms. Gulab Kanwar, balancing his personal life with his unwavering commitment to the nation. 

During one such operation in the Eastern Sector, on 01 Dec 1971 Rifleman Chhagan Singh and his platoon were tasked with clearing a heavily fortified enemy post. As they advanced, the platoon encountered intense enemy shelling and heavy small-arms fire, creating a highly perilous situation. When the platoon was about twenty-five yards away from the enemy position, Rifleman Chhagan Singh noticed a strategically placed 106mm recoilless gun inside a bunker, which posed a significant threat to his comrades. Despite being wounded during the initial assault, Rifleman Chhagan Singh displayed exceptional bravery and resolve. Crawling under relentless enemy fire, he made his way toward the bunker, determined to neutralize the threat. During his approach, he was hit again by a burst of light machine gun fire. Gravely injured but undeterred, Rifleman Chhagan Singh reached the bunker and destroyed it using hand grenades, silencing the enemy weapon. His courageous act paved the way for his platoon to advance and successfully achieve their objective. Tragically, Rifleman Chhagan Singh succumbed to his injuries during the action.

Rifleman Chhagan Singh's gallantry and unwavering determination in the face of overwhelming odds exemplified the highest standards of courage and self-sacrifice. His actions not only neutralized a critical enemy position but also inspired his comrades to carry on the mission with renewed vigour. Rifleman Chhagan Singh demonstrated exceptional grit, determination, and exemplary leadership during the operation, displaying courage of the highest order. In recognition of his extraordinary valour and supreme sacrifice, Rifleman Chhagan Singh was posthumously honoured with the prestigious Vir Chakra.