Sepoy Devi Sahai

Sepoy Devi Sahai hailed from Khursed Nagar village in Haryana’s Rewari district—an area known for its deep-rooted tradition of valour and patriotic service. Driven by an unwavering sense of duty, he joined the Indian Army and was inducted into the 13 Kumaon Battalion of the esteemed Kumaon Regiment. As one of the Indian Army’s most historic and decorated infantry units, the Kumaon Regiment, with its origins dating back to the 18th century, is celebrated for its distinguished service in numerous military operations. During his time in uniform, Sepoy Devi Sahai exemplified the core values of discipline, dedication, and selfless service. He served the regiment with pride, upholding its rich legacy and maintaining the high standards it represents.

Battle of Rezang La (Indo-China War): 18 Nov 1962

In June 1962, Sepoy Devi Sahai’s unit, the 13 Kumaon Battalion, was relocated from Ambala to Baramulla in Jammu & Kashmir under the command of Lt Col H.S. Dhingra. As tensions with China escalated later that year, the battalion received urgent orders in September to mobilize to Leh. Upon arrival, it was placed under the operational command of the 114th Infantry Brigade, led by Brigadier T.N. Raina—who would later become the Chief of Army Staff. Tasked with defending an extensive 400-kilometer stretch of the Indo-China border, including the strategically vital Chushul sector, the brigade was composed of several distinguished units: 14 and 7 J&K Militia, 5 Jat, 1/8 Gorkha Rifles, and 13 Kumaon. Sepoy Devi Sahai served in ‘C’ Company of 13 Kumaon, commanded by the legendary Major Shaitan Singh. As part of the defensive deployment, ‘C’ Company was stationed at Rezang La, while other companies were positioned at key tactical locations: ‘A’ Company near the battalion HQ at Chushul, and ‘B’ and ‘D’ Companies at Maggar Hill.

By 26 October 1962, Sepoy Devi Sahai and his comrades had fortified their positions at Rezang La in anticipation of a Chinese assault. Strategically placed along the forward slopes, ‘C’ Company’s platoons were spread out to cover key approaches: Platoon 7 under Jemadar Surja Ram guarded the northern flank, Platoon 8, led by Jemadar Hari Ram, secured the pass, and Platoon 9, alongside Company HQ, was held by Jemadar Ram Chander. A mortar section under Naik Ram Kumar Yadav supported them from the reverse slope. The Chinese offensive commenced on 18 November 1962, synchronized with broader attacks in the NEFA region. Rezang La, a critical point guarding the access route to the Chushul airfield, was hit in a two-pronged attack—one wave toward Gurung Hill and the other directly at ‘C’ Company’s position.

The first Chinese advance began at 2:00 AM, approaching Platoon 8. Their movement was spotted by a Listening Post, and Naik Hukam Chand immediately alerted Jemadar Hari Ram, who ordered a swift counterattack. As the enemy closed in, Indian troops opened fire, effectively halting the initial wave. By 4:00 AM, a second wave approached from the north. Jemadar Surja Ram and Naik Sahi Ram mounted a determined defense using rifles, grenades, and light machine guns. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the soldiers held their ground. The enemy launched additional assaults at 4:55 AM, 6:00 AM, and 6:30 AM, but Sepoy Devi Sahai and his fellow soldiers continued to resist with extraordinary tenacity.

By the time of the sixth wave at 7:40 AM, the defenders were severely outnumbered and exhausted. At 8:40 AM, the enemy deployed a 57 mm recoilless rifle, signaling the seventh and final assault at 9:00 AM. Through freezing temperatures, harsh terrain, and unrelenting attacks, Sepoy Devi Sahai displayed unwavering courage and commitment. During this brutal encounter, he was grievously wounded and ultimately made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. The valiant stand at Rezang La proved critical—not only did it stall the Chinese advance, but it also safeguarded the strategic Chushul airfield. Following the ceasefire, the battleground became a disputed no-man’s land. The bodies of Sepoy Devi Sahai and his fallen comrades remained entombed under the snow until discovered nearly three months later by a local shepherd—a haunting testament to their courage and sacrifice.

Sepoy Devi Sahai is survived by his wife, Smt. Rajbai.