Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra VrC

Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra hailed from the picturesque region of Dehradun in Uttarakhand. Born to Shri Kahram Bohra, he was deeply inspired by the spirit of service from a young age. Growing up amidst the natural beauty and martial tradition of the hills, he nurtured a strong aspiration to join the armed forces. Following his school education, he took the first decisive step towards realizing that dream by successfully enlisting in the Indian Army. He was recruited into the 3rd Battalion of the 9th Gorkha Rifles (3/9 GR), a unit belonging to the esteemed 9 Gorkha Rifles Regiment—an infantry regiment celebrated for its indomitable spirit, rich heritage, and countless battle honours earned in service of the nation. Upon completion of his initial military training, Subedar Bhim Singh began his journey as a soldier, serving in various operational areas. These early experiences helped mold him into a disciplined, skilled, and courageous warrior. 

As he gained experience, his sense of duty and leadership qualities earned him not just promotions but also the admiration of his fellow soldiers and commanding officers. By 1948, he had earned the rank of Subedar, a respected Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), entrusted with commanding responsibilities and mentoring younger soldiers under his care. His ability to lead by example, particularly under pressure, made him a pillar of strength within his battalion. Beyond his distinguished military career, Subedar Bhim Singh also valued his personal life and found happiness in his family. After a few years of service, he married Ms Subhadra Devi. 

Poonch operation (Indo-Pak War): 28/29 Aug 1948

The Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948, also known as the First Kashmir War, marked the beginning of a prolonged and bitter conflict between India and Pakistan over the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. The war was sparked in October 1947 when tribal militias, supported by the Pakistani military, launched an incursion into the state. Faced with an imminent threat to his kingdom, the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir signed the Instrument of Accession, formally joining India. In response, the Indian Army was swiftly airlifted to Srinagar to defend the region and push back the invaders. One of the most critical fronts during this war was the Poonch sector—a rugged, mountainous, and strategically vital region of Jammu and Kashmir. In August 1948, during a pivotal phase of the conflict, Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra's 3rd Battalion of 9 Gorkha Rifles (3/9 GR), played a crucial role. 

During August 1948, the situation in the Poonch district remained tense and volatile, as both sides vied for control of strategic terrain. It was here, in this hostile and heavily contested sector, that Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra's 3/9 GR rose to the occassion. At a time when the frontlines in Poonch witnessed regular infiltration, unpredictable ceasefire violations, and mounting casualties, the need for decisive action was critical. Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra's unit was assigned a daring task—to assault and capture a vital hill feature that served as a linchpin in the enemy’s defensive network. The success of this mission would not only break the enemy's stronghold but also bolster Indian control over the surrounding region. On the night of August 28/29, 1948, under the cover of darkness, Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra led his forward company in what would become one of the most fiercely fought engagements of the campaign. The terrain was unforgiving—steep, narrow, and under constant watch from enemy positions. As his men began their perilous ascent, they were met with intense and concentrated fire. The advance seemed nearly impossible, yet Subedar Bhim Singh pressed on with unwavering determination.

Exemplifying the true warrior ethos of the Gorkhas, he charged fearlessly ahead, brandishing his khukri, the traditional curved blade symbolic of the regiment’s storied bravery. In an act of raw courage, he engaged in close combat, his audacity breaking the enemy's will and throwing their defenses into disarray. The hill, once a fortress, now echoed with the thunder of Gorkha resolve. Inspired by their leader’s ferocity, his men surged forward, overwhelming the enemy and capturing the critical peak. Even after the objective was secured, Subedar Bhim Singh’s sense of duty did not wane. He moved tirelessly from trench to trench, rallying his troops and fortifying their morale amidst the ongoing enemy shelling. It was during one such moment of encouragement that a sudden mortar explosion struck near him. Gravely wounded, Subedar Bhim Singh succumbed to his injuries, laying down his life just as victory had been assured. His sacrifice came to symbolize the spirit of the 1948 Kashmir War—a battle fought not just for territory, but for the soul of a newly independent nation. His leadership, bravery, and selflessness in the face of grave danger were formally recognized with the award of the "Vir Chakra", one of India’s highest wartime gallantry honours.

Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra is survived by his wife, Smt Subhadra Devi.

The Citation for the "Vir Chakra" awarded to him reads:-

On the night of August 28/29, 1948, Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra was in charge of the leading company during an attack on a strategically important hill feature in the Poonch area. The line of advance was under intense enemy fire, but Subedar Bhim Singh, displaying complete disregard for his personal safety, bravely led the assault. With exceptional courage, he hurled himself at the enemy, brandishing his khukri, and engaged in close combat. Undeterred by the heavy fire, he continued to pursue the retreating enemy forces until the highest point of the feature, which was strongly fortified and fiercely defended, was successfully captured. His fearless leadership and personal example of valor inspired his men and played a crucial role in the success of the operation. Throughout the battle, his courage, determination, and leadership were truly outstanding.

Later, while moving from post to post to encourage his men to hold their ground despite intense enemy shelling, Subedar Bhim Singh Bohra was struck by a mortar bomb and tragically lost his life. His supreme sacrifice and extraordinary bravery continue to serve as a lasting inspiration to all.