OPERATION EAGLE – GALLANTRY AWARD


SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE - OPERATION EAGLE 1971 – LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH :

Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during 1971 initiated the Liberation of Bangladesh with military action in Chittagong Hill Tracts. This battle plan was named Operation Eagle.

OPERATION EAGLE – GALLANTRY AWARD : The Petition/Grievance that is related to the grant of Gallantry Award is now sent to Mr. Upamanyu Chatterjee, IAS, Joint Secretary, Chief Administrative Officer, Defence Headquarters Training Institute, E-Block, Dalhousie Road, New Delhi for his investigation or decision.

Service Number:MS-8466, Rank: Captain, Name: R. Rudra Narasimham/R.R. Narasimham, Corps/Service:AMC/SSC – Operation Eagle – Recommendation for Gallantry Award- This Army Officer never held a Civilian appointment or a Civilian position at Armed Forces Headquarters or any Inter-Service Organization.

MS-8466 Captain R R Narasimham, AMC/SSC was selected for the grant of Short Service Commission in the Army Medical Corps on 18th September, 1969 in the rank of Second Lieutenant while he was a Final Year M.B.B.S. student at Kurnool Medical College, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, India. He joined Army in the rank of Lieutenant on 26th July, 1970. He was promoted to the rank of Captain on completion of training at Military Hospital, Ambala. He was deputed to the Special Frontier Force, a Special Task Force under the Directorate General of Security, Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India. While on deputation, he had served as Medical Officer, Headquarters Establishment No. 22  C/O  56 APO from 22nd September, 1971 to 18th December, 1974. This Medical Officer was posted to the South Column Unit of Operation Eagle and had served under the Command of Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan. During 1971, Brigadier T S Oberoi was the Commandant at Headquarters Establishment No. 22 and he was the Commander at Force Headquarters Operation Eagle. In a written testimonial given by Lieutenant General T S Oberoi, PVSM, VrC, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Headquarters Southern Command Pune 411001 dated 14th February, 1983, General Oberoi had stated that this Medical Officer was closely associated with his organisation during 1971 Indo-Pak War. The Southern Army Commander had further commented that this Medical Officer deserves befitting recognition on his relinquishing the Army.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971 – GALLANTRY AWARD – RECOGNITION BY LIEUTENANT GENERAL T S OBEROI, PVSM, VrC, GOC-in-C, Headquarters Southern Command. During 1971, he served as the Commandant of Headquarters Establishment No. 22 in the rank of Brigadier and was the Commander at Force Headquarters Operation Eagle. During 1972, he got promoted to the rank of Major General and served as the Inspector General, Special Frontier Force. He was the Reviewing Officer of my Annual Confidential Report:Officers for the Year 1971-72.

 Southern Army Commander General T S Oberoi had categorically stated that this Medical Officer was recommended for a gallantry award for display of gallant qualities in the face of the enemy.

ANNUAL CONFIDENTIAL REPORT:OFFICERS – THE EVIDENCE FOR GALLANTRY AWARD RECOMMENDATION :

THE EVIDENCE FOR RECOMMENDATION OF GALLANTRY AWARD – ANNUAL CONFIDENTIAL REPORT-OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 1971-72. Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, the Initiating Officer had reported the following remarks in his Confidential Report for the Year 1971-72 in respect of Captain R R Narasimham AMC/SSC: “A very conscietious and Tough MO who worked hard during the Bangladesh Ops. He did very well and showed Maturity, which was beyond the call of duty. I have recommended this Officer for a gallantry award for which he deserves eminently. He is physically Tough and cheerful. Is a fresh entrant with less than 2 years of Service and yet he displayed capability and confidence.” Signed B K Narayan Lt Col dated 13 May 72.

This Medical Officer displayed a great sense of devotion to duty, maturity, physical toughness, and bravery beyond call of duty during Operation Eagle for which he was recommended for a gallantry award. The evidence about this recommendation was included in the Annual Confidential Report : Officers for the year 1971-72 in respect of this Medical Officer. This Annual Confidential Report was initiated by Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, Directorate General of Security, Office of Inspector General Special Frontier Force, who had Commanded the South Column Unit of Operation Eagle. The duly completed Annual Confidential Report for the Year 1971-72 was forwarded to Military Secretary’s Branch, Ministry of Defence(Army) and is now held at MS Branch MS4( CR ). REGISTRATION OF PUBLIC GRIEVANCE : Government of India, Cabinet Secretariat, Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances has established a web portal to receive Public Grievances at http://www.pgportal.gov.in/It received a grievance on 24th September, 2011 about the case pertaining to this Medical Officer who had relinquished Service on 10th January, 1984. The Registration Number is MODEF/E/2011/00761. The grievance is received by Shri. Arun Kumar Bal, Joint Secretary ( Estt.&PG ), Room No. 97, Ministry of Defence, South Block, New Delhi 110 001. His contact phone number : 23792043; E-mail : jse@nic.in This Grievance that was received by Joint Secretary(Estt & PG), Ministry of Defence on 24 September, 2011 was forwarded to unknown and unspecified Department of Defence on 07 December, 2011. After a long period of time at that unspecified Department of Defence, the Grievance is now forwarded to the Wing of Joint Secretary Training, Chief Administrative Officer, Defence Headquarters Training Institute, E-Block, Tutu Road, DHQ Zone, New Delhi – 110 011, on 17 July, 2012.

Operation Eagle-Gallantry Award : Mr. Upamanyu Chatterjee, IAS, Joint Secretary, Chief Administrative Officer Defence Headquarters Training Institute had received my Petition/Grievance bearing Registration Number: MODEF/E/2011/00761 on 17 July 2012. He is involved in the recruitment and provision of civilian manpower for the Service Hq of Indian Armed Forces. He is the cadre controlling Officer for Armed Forces civilian employees. Kindly explain as to why my Petition/Grievance is forwarded to his Office of JS(Trg) & CAO.

OPERATION EAGLE – GALLANTRY AWARD : The Petition/Grievance bearing Registration Number: MODEF/E/2011/00761 has now reached this building on 17 July 2012. This building belongs to Office of Joint Secretary( Training ) & Chief Administrative Officer, Defence Headquarters Training Institute, E-Block, Dalhousie Road, DHQ Zone, New Delhi – 110 011. Kindly explain as to why a Petition/Grievance filed by a former Officer of Indian Army Medical Corps is forwarded to this address.

I am surprised to note that no attempt is being made to verify my Record of Service that is archived at Medical Personnel Records Section(Officers), MPRS(O), Office of the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi – 110 011, to begin a proper inquiry to accept or to reject my Petition/Grievance.

The South Block, which houses the Prime Minist...

Posted by :

Dr. R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Ex- Number MS-8466. Rank-Captain.  AMC/SSC

Medical Officer, South Column, Operation Eagle

Directorate General of Security

Office of Inspector General Special Frontier Force

East Block V, Level IV, R K Puram,New Delhi – 110 022.

Special Frontier Force-Operation Eagle-Gallantry Award :Secretariat Building, Government of India, New Delhi. The Government has to decide the merit in my claim for a Gallantry Award or it may let the Enemy judge my action if it merits any punishment.

Special Frontier Force-Operation Eagle-Gallantry Award :Secretariat Building, Government of India, New Delhi. The Government has to decide the merit in my claim for a Gallantry Award or it may let the Enemy judge my action if it merits any punishment.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971 AND VIETNAM WAR


From George L. MacGarrigle, The United States ...

Special Frontier Force-Operation Eagle 1971 and Vietnam War(Image via Wikipedia)

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE – OPERATION EAGLE 1971 AND VIETNAM WAR :

THE EAGLE CONNECTION: THE BALD EAGLE – THE GOLDEN EAGLE – OPERATION EAGLE – WHAT IS THE CONNECTION?

The military action in the Chittagong Hill Tracts that initiated the Liberation of Bangladesh during 1971 is known as Operation Eagle 1971. It was a very modest military battle as compared to the Vietnam War. However, a comparison must be made to understand the use of Infantry to defeat enemy to obtain a political objective. The U.S. Army may not be aware of Operation Eagle where I had used U.S. military equipment, field gear, and U.S. Military Field Rations-Meals Ready to Eat or MREs.

In a hilly, forest terrain, the use of aerial firepower or bombing campaigns will not dislodge the enemy. The enemy must be found on the ground and must be directly attacked.

The military objectives of the Vietnam War could not be accomplished because of the reliance placed upon aerial bombardment to defeat the enemy. Operation Eagle 1971 was small in its scope and size. But, it did not rely upon the use of aerial bombardment. We operated on a ‘manpack’ basis, went in search of enemy positions, and had directly challenged the enemy at his own post. United States had failed to attack the enemy on the ground during the Vietnam War. To defend South Vietnam, the military strategy and planning would call for Infantry attacks on the enemy inside North Vietnam. United States had used more bombs as compared to the number of bombs that were dropped during the Second World War and yet could not dislodge the enemy from his entrenched positions. We need to fight and engage the enemy on the ground.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971 AND VIETNAM WAR INFANTRY WEAPONS AND FIELD GEAR :

OPERATION EAGLE 1971 AND THE VIETNAM WAR INFANTRY WEAPONS, FIELD GEAR AND COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT

The General Purpose Machine Gun M60 was designed for use in the Vietnam War was equally useful for our Infantry operation Eagle in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

M1 Muzzle loading 81mm Mortar is a heavy piece of Infantry weapon which provides indirect fire support. During Operation Eagle, our men had carried them on their backs and used them to fire upon the enemy patrols whenever they had confronted us.

The most common weapon used by American Infantry Battalions in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Operation Eagle was fought on a manpack basis and this short-range, lightweight mortar was very useful.

A military action by Infantry is best understood by examining the weapons that are used. During Operation Eagle 1971 and the Vietnam War, the Infantry had used the same kinds of Infantry weapons. We must ignore the sophisticated technology and the firepower of United States Navy and Air Force. The battle must be won on the ground. During Operation Eagle 1971 we had used the same Infantry weapons, equipment, and other supplies more effectively in our battle as compared to U.S.

Army in its combat missions against its enemy in Vietnam. We had not used helicopters as gunships or to attack the enemy in support of ground troops. I would like to share some of the photo images of the Infantry Weapons and equipment that were used in Vietnam War and which I had seen during Operation Eagle 1971.

Rifle is the most basic Infantry weapon. M14 Infantry Assault Rifle was used in Vietnam. During Operation Eagle 1971, I had politely refused to use this M14 Rifle as my personal weapon.The men had used this Rifle.During Operation Eagle 1971, I could not bring my Sub Machine Gun or SMG and had participated in the battle without carrying the M14 Rifle.

During Operation Eagle 1971 we were not allowed the use of cameras or photography. I would have looked like this man wearing Olive Green Coat Poncho. I had used US Army Cap-Field.

A Soldier needs his gun, boots, and clothing to protect himself. During Operation Eagle 1971, I had used this US Army Nylon Poncho with Hood(Olive) to sleep on the ground and as a coat to protect myself from intense fog and dew prevalent in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Short-range, manpack, portable, frequency modulated(FM) transceiver that provides two-way voice communication. Radio Set AN/PRC – 25 is used in the Vietnam War and I had used the same in Operation Eagle. Two-way voice communications could be easily monitored by the enemy. Fortunately, I had no problem as the enemy in Chittagong Hill Tracts had no linguistic experts. I had openly communicated with my Unit Commander in my native language of Telugu and there was absolutely no risk of revealing any sensitive information.

U.S. Army uses a variety of Individual Field Medical Kits. The Kits issued to us during Operation Eagle 1971 were Olive Green Canvas pouches worn on the belts by each individual. The medical supplies included Water Purification Tablets for use in water bottles, anti-Malaria pills, Insect Repellant Solution(DBP), Insect Repellant Cream(DMP), Injectable Tubonic Morphine, tetracycline tablets, Multivitamin tablets, Field dressings, bandages and others. The Kits were not stamped but the contents reveal the place of origin.

Infantry marches on its feet. Boots are the most important equipment apart from Guns. I had used Ankle Canvas Boots during Operation Eagle and had marched on feet to fight and dislodge the enemy from the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The Canvas Boots that I had used lasted for the entire duration of Operation Eagle. They were better than the leather boots that I would use in other operational areas.

WAR AND PEACE – A FAILURE OF U.S. DIPLOMACY :

United States had failed in Vietnam as it failed to develop a clear vision to achieve its goal of resisting and containing the expansion of Communist Power in Southeast Asia. U.S. efforts to stop the spread of Communism got derailed by Dr. Henry Kissinger who had chosen the option of backstabbing people who were supporting the United States in its global mission to oppose Communism using both diplomatic, and military interventions. U.S. had given away a lot during the Peace Talks basically defeating the accomplishments of its military  sacrifices. The several concessions given to Peoples’ Republic of China to win its cooperation to stop the flow of military assistance to North Vietnam had totally failed. The establishment of U.S. – China relations gave no advantage to the United States for its War in Vietnam. United States had added insult to its own injuries by seeking the support of Communist China to attack India across its Himalayan frontier in the North East Frontier Agency to stop India in its efforts to liberate Bangladesh during 1971.

During 1971, Richard Nixon and Dr. Kissinger played on the Sino-Soviet Split. United States moved to normalize trade with China. Dr. Kissinger and President Nixon had both visited Peking(Beijing) to befriend Communist China. Did it stop China from delivering military assistance to North Vietnam? Did this famous meeting stop Hanoi’s EASTER OFFENSIVE in March 1972?

President Nixon met Communist China’s Prime Minister Chou Enlai. Did this act of friendship help the US Army in the Vietnam War? Could it stop Communist North Vietnam from launching its major invasion of South Vietnam during March 1972? Using this friendship, both President Nixon and Dr. Kissinger tried their best to stop India from Liberating Bangladesh during 1971. This Nixon and Chou Enlai friendship did not stop the Liberation of Bangladesh which India initiated with Operation Eagle 1971 in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Dr. Kissinger’s diplomatic initiatives had totally failed the US Policy in Southeast Asia. Communist China remains a huge military threat in this region and United States had failed in its mission to curb the expansion of Communist Power.

THE BALD EAGLE AND THE GOLDEN EAGLE CONNECTION :

Myself and the men of my Unit had participated in Operation Eagle 1971 to gain practical experience of Infantry Combat Operations to fight with Communists in a future battle. The Operation Eagle 1971 was inclined towards peace. It intended to deliver peace to the people of Bangladesh who had declared their independence from Pakistan during March 1971. The War in Vietnam is over and yet the threat of Communism still persists in Southeast Asia. To deliver peace to people of Southeast Asia, United States must learn from its failure in Vietnam. The failure was not that of the US Army which had willingly sacrificed the lives of over 58,000 of its fighting men and women. The US political leadership had failed the US military mission in Vietnam. United States must seek assistance from the people of Southeast Asia and fight its enemy on the ground and dislodge the enemy in a ground battle.

Dr. R. R. Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S., Service Number. MS-8466, Rank. LIEUTENANT/CAPTAIN  AMC/SSC Medical Officer South Column Operation Eagle 1971 Headquarters Establishment No. 22  C/O  56  APO. Special Frontier Force.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Spirits-of-Special-Frontier-Force/362056613878227

THE BATTLE PLAN OF OPERATION EAGLE – PERMISSION FOR DISCLOSURE


English: Manmohan Singh, current prime ministe...

English: Dr. Manmohan Singh, current Prime Minister of India. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Battle Plan of Operation Eagle 1971-Chittagong Hill Tracts must be disclosed.

OPERATION EAGLE(1971)- MILITARY ACTION IN CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS: PERMISSION FOR DISCLOSURE OF THE BATTLE PLAN. The battle plan had originated and was sanctioned by Prime Minister of India at the Secretariat Building, South Block, New Delhi.

 

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE – OPERATION EAGLE:

To: manmohan@sansad.nic.in
Subject: The Battle Plan of Operation Eagle – Permission for disclosure
Date: Thu, 21 Jul 2011

From,
R.Pratap Narayan,
Fair View Apartment,
Street No 8,
Habshiguda,
Hyderabad. 500 007. Tel. 040. 2 717 3543

To:

Dr. Manmohan Singh
Honourable Prime Minister of India,
Prime Minister’s Office,
New Delhi – 110 011.

Attn: Prime Minister’s Office – Shri. Amar Dass, Section Officer.

Respected Sir,

Subject:- The Battle Plan of Operation Eagle – Permission for Disclosure.

References:- 1. My representation dated 24/5/2011.
2. PMO ID No. 6/3/2011-PMP3/298009 dated 16/6/2011.

3. MoD ID No. 3533/2009/D( Cer ) dated 01 July 2011.
4. Integrated HQ MoD(Army), Military Secretary’s Branch ID No. A/45101/REP/MS( X )
dated 08 July 2011.

1. Military Secretary’s Branch, Integrated HQ MoD( Army ) in its letter ID No. A/45101/REP/MS( X ) dated 08 Jul 2011 had rejected my representation dated 24/5/2011 regarding my brother’s petition to receive a Gallantry Award that was duly recommended by Special Frontier Force which operated under the Command of Major General Sujan Singh Uban, Inspector General SFF, Directorate General of Security, R. K. Puram, New Delhi. As per the decision made by the Prime Minister of India, the Battle Plan of Operation Eagle had included the eligibility criteria for receiving Service Medals and Decorations. My brother is eligible to receive this Gallantry Award because he had participated in Operation Eagle as a Citizen of India. For example, foreign nationals like Bangla refugees who had also participated in Operation Eagle are not entitled to receive Service Medals and Decorations.

2. The Military Secretary, MoD( Army ) while rejecting my representation had also claimed that this battle action took place nearly 39 years ago. However, it must be noted that the Military Secretary has not mentioned the date or dates of this battle action. It appears that the MS Branch is not aware of this basic information or the MS Branch is deliberately concealing information with an intention to deny the grant of this Gallantry Award to an Indian National who had participated in military action on the basis of his Citizenship.

3. In the history of Republic of India, for the very first time, the Prime Minister of India had planned and had personally executed this kind of military operation( Op Eagle ) drawing assistance from nontraditional fighting elements from the Directorate General of Security.

4. Because of the historical importance of Operation Eagle, it would be in public interest to disclose the details of the Battle Plan. Since this Battle Action took place a long time ago, it is assumed that Government of India has no objection if the Battle Plan is disclosed to the People of India.

5. If you have any concerns in this matter, kindly inform me.

Thanking You,

Yours Faithfully,

R.Pratap Narayan.
Hyderabad.
21 st July, 2011.

This letter from Ministry of Defence again fails to mention my Unit affiliation and does not reveal the name of the military act called Operation Eagle. Public have a Right to Information about the Battle Plan of Operation Eagle.

OPERATION EAGLE – PERMISSION FOR DISCLOSURE OF BATTLE PLAN: Mr. Upamanyu Chatterjee, IAS, Joint Secretary, Chief Administrative Officer, Ministry of Defence, a reputed novelist must allow me to tell my story.

 

OPERATION EAGLE – A DEMAND FOR JUSTICE FROM DR. MANMOHAN SINGH, PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA


Manmohan Singh, current prime minister of India.

Image via Wikipedia

 

 

 

 

 

 

My elder brother Pratap is seen with me in a photo taken in Mylapore, Madras(Chennai) and he is the author of this letter demanding action from Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971-CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS-LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH-A DEMAND FOR JUSTICE

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE – OPERATION EAGLE – GALLANTRY AWARD: 

 

FROM,

R.Pratap Narayan,
Fair View Apartment,
Street No 8,
Habshiguda,
Hyderabad, A.P. – 500 007.

To,

The Prime Minister Of India,
NEW DELHI.

 

Respected Sir,

I request you to consider my brother’s letter to you. I hope that you will take appropriate steps to review the long

pending case of my brother Mr. R.Rudra Narasimham. Gallantry Awards should be presented by the Nation

as a mark of respect for the Service rendered to the Motherland. Justice delayed is considered as Justice denied.

I expect Justice to my brother from you in this case.

With regards,

 

Pratap Narayan.

 

Subject:- Operation Eagle – Military Operation of 1971 in Chittagong Hill Tracts – Prime Minister Indira Gandhi – The Cabinet Secretariat – “The Past is Never Dead.” – Regarding.

Reference:- Government of India Ministry of Defence Letter No. 3533/2009/D ( Cer ) dated 2nd/3rd December, 2009.

Sir,

1. Kindly view my open letter dated May 16, 2011 at my Homepage of BhavanaJagat( the web hyperlink is posted under my signature ).

2. Kindly direct the Under Secretary ( Cer ), Ministry of Defence, Government of India to take action as per the citation initiated by my Unit while I had participated in Operation Eagle under the authority sanctioned by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India during 1971.

3.This military Operation was not ordered by the Defence Minister, and was not planned or executed by the orders that were issued by the Army Headquarters. Ministry of Defence,

4. Army Headquarters, and the Medical Directorate( DMS-Army ) had taken action during 1971 to send me on deputation to Special Frontier Force. They have no jurisdiction to invalidate the action taken by my Unit during its participation in Operation Eagle. Kindly ask me for any further clarification or information about the nature of military act for which my Unit recommended my name for the Award of Gallantry Award-Vir Chakra.

5. Ministry of Defence Army Headquarters has no legal authority to refuse the sanction of this gallantry award. Army Hqrs may be informed of the fact and the nature of military service rendered by me while I was on deputation at Hq Establishment No. 22 of Special Frontier Force. To conduct the Military Operation of 1971 in Chittagong Hill Tracts, we have taken orders direct from the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretariat.

6. I would ask you to uphold the dignity of the Prime Minister’s Office. The actions taken by the Cabinet Secretariat should be treated with respect by the Ministry of Defence and Army Hqrs.

7. Thanking You,

 

Yours Faithfully,

R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,
Ex- MR-03277K MAJOR AMC/PC
Ex- MS-8466 Lieutenant/Captain AMC/SSC 
Medical Officer South Column Operation Eagle 1971 Headquarters Establishment No.22  C/O  56  APO

http://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2011/05/16/operation-eagle-an-open-letter-to-government-of-india/

This response dated 02/03 December, 2009 does not suggest that no citation was initiated to consider the Award of Vir Chakra Gallantry Award. However, it carefully conceals the fact that the Military Operation specifically pertains to Operation Eagle for which the Rules of Engagement were prescribed by the Prime Minister of India and not by Indian Army.

This response from Military Secretary’s Branch Ministry of Defence(Army) categorically claims that it had not seen the Citation that recommended my name for the award of Vir Chakra Gallantry Award. The letter also carefully avoids any reference to name the Military Operation called Operation Eagle which was executed by the orders issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.Shri. S. Kumar, Deputy Director, Military Secretary’s Branch(X), Ministry of Defence(Army) is not telling the truth in this letter. If truth is concealed, it cannot serve the purpose of providing Justice. Indian Army must accept the truth. The truth is Indian Army or the Ministry of Defence have not issued the Rules of Engagement for the Military Operation called Operation Eagle. This Battle of 1971 was fought under a Battle Plan and Rules of Engagement issued by the Prime Minister’s office. The Rules for this War include the benefit of receiving Gallantry Awards as recommended. There is no time stipulated in this Battle Plan for receiving the Award. Indian Army cannot change the Rules of this Battle Plan for Operation Eagle.Shri. S. Kumar, Deputy Director, Military Secretary’s Branch(X), Ministry of Defence(Army) is not telling the truth in this letter. If truth is concealed, it cannot serve the purpose of providing Justice. Indian Army must accept the truth. The truth is Indian Army or the Ministry of Defence have not issued the Rules of Engagement for the Military Operation called Operation Eagle. This Battle of 1971 was fought under a Battle Plan and Rules of Engagement issued by the Prime Minister’s office. The Rules for this War include the benefit of receiving Gallantry Awards as recommended. There is no time stipulated in this Battle Plan for receiving the Award. Indian Army cannot change the Rules of this Battle Plan for Operation Eagle.

Shri. S. Kumar, Deputy Director, Military Secretary’s Branch(X), Ministry of Defence(Army) is not telling the truth in this letter. If truth is concealed, it cannot serve the purpose of providing Justice. Indian Army must accept the truth. The truth is Indian Army or the Ministry of Defence have not issued the Rules of Engagement for the Military Operation called Operation Eagle. This Battle of 1971 was fought under a Battle Plan and Rules of Engagement issued by the Prime Minister’s office. The Rules for this War include the benefit of receiving Gallantry Awards as recommended. There is no time stipulated in this Battle Plan for receiving the Award. Indian Army cannot change the Rules of this Battle Plan for Operation Eagle.

OPERATION EAGLE – A LETTER TO PRIME MINISTER DR. MANMOHAN SINGH


A representation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka...

Image via Wikipedia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE – OPERATION EAGLE – GALLANTRY AWARD:

OPERATION EAGLE 1971 – CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS – A LETTER TO GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

Subject:- Operation Eagle – Military Operation of 1971 in Chittagong Hill Tracts – Prime Minister Indira Gandhi – The Cabinet Secretariat – “The Past is Never Dead.” – Regarding.

Reference:- Government of India Ministry of Defence Letter No. 3533/2009/D ( Cer ) dated 2nd/3rd December, 2009.

Sir,

1. Kindly view my open letter dated May 16, 2011 at my Homepage of BhavanaJagat( the web hyperlink is posted under my signature ).

2. Kindly direct the Under Secretary ( Cer ), Ministry of Defence, Government of India to take action as per the citation initiated by my South Column Unit while I had participated in Operation Eagle under the authority sanctioned by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India during 1971.

3.This military Operation was not ordered by the Defence Minister, and was not planned or executed by the orders that were issued by the Army Headquarters.

 4.Ministry of Defence, Army Headquarters, and the Medical Directorate( DMS-Army ) had taken action during 1971 to send me on deputation to Special Frontier Force. They have no jurisdiction to invalidate the action taken by my South Column Unit during its participation in Operation Eagle. Kindly ask me for any further clarification or information about the nature of military act for which my South Column Unit recommended my name for the Award of Gallantry Award-Vir Chakra.

5. Ministry of Defence Army Headquarters has no legal authority to refuse the sanction of this gallantry award. Army Hqrs may be informed of the fact and the nature of military service rendered by me while I was on deputation at Hq Establishment No. 22 of Special Frontier Force. To conduct the Military Operation of 1971 in Chittagong Hill Tracts, we have taken orders direct from the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretariat.

6. I would ask you to uphold the dignity of the Prime Minister’s Office. The actions taken by the Cabinet Secretariat should be treated with respect by the Ministry of Defence and Army Hqrs.

7. Thanking You,

Yours Faithfully,

R. R. Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,
Ex- MR-03277K MAJOR AMC/PC
Ex- MS-8466 Lieutenant/Captain AMC/SSC
Medical Officer South Column Operation Eagle 1971
Headquarters Establishment Number 22  C/O  56 A P O

http://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2011/05/16/operation-eagle-an-open-letter-to-government-of-india/

 

OPERATION EAGLE – AN OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNMENT OF INDIA


Indira Gandhi is elected as the first female P...

Indira Gandhi is elected as the first female Prime Minister of India (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

OPERATION EAGLE – AN OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

Operation Eagle – An open letter to Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India.

 

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE-OPERATION EAGLE-GALLANTRY AWARD:

May 16, 2011

From:

Ex – Personal Number. MR-03277K, Rank.  Major,  AMC/DPC,

Dr. Rudra Narasimham, Rebbapragada, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

2011 South Huron Parkway, Apartment #11,

Ann Arbor, MI  48104-4162

United States of America.

To:

Dr. Manmohan Singh,

Honourable Prime Minister of India,

The Prime Minister’s Office(PMO),

South Block, Raisina Hill,

New Delhi – 110 101.

manmohan@sansad.nic.in

Subject:- Operation Eagle – 1971 Military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts - India-Pakistan War of 1971 – “The Past is Never Dead.” – Regarding.

Reference:- Government of India Ministry of Defence Letter No. 3533/2009/D( Cer ) dated 2nd/3rd  December, 2009. A photo image of this letter is included for easy reference.

Operation Eagle – Military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts in 1971 -”The Past is Never Dead.” This letter requires an open response in support of my demand for due recognition as per the Battle Plan approved by the Prime Minister of India. 

 Sir,

1. Using the famous words of Nobel Laureate William Faulkner, I would like to submit to you that, “The Past is Never Dead… It’s not even Past.”

2. I, Dr. R. Rudra Narasimham, also known as MS-8466 Lieutenant/Captain  R. R. Narasimham AMC/SSC was posted to Headquarters Establishment No. 22 C/O 56 APO ( Est No. 22 ) as Medical Officer during 1971. I had joined this duty at Est No. 22 with effect from 22 September 1971.

3. Just prior to Indo-Pak War of 1971, at Est No. 22 I was officially briefed about military Operation Eagle ( Op Eagle ). This Operation was approved by Prime Minister Shrimati. Indira Gandhi. Op Eagle was executed under the legal authority duly sanctioned by Government of India. I had acted in obedience to the orders issued by my immediate superior Officers as the military plan had the approval of Government of India. All the orders were issued following the proper chain of Command after approval from Prime Minister’s Cabinet Secretariat. Kindly ask me if I have to provide any other information about Op Eagle.

4. The Op Eagle plan included the use of helicopter flights from India for airlifting of battle casualties from Chittagong Hill Tracts to the Field Hospital, Lungleh, Mizoram. This Field Hospital was specifically established for this operational purpose under the battle plan.

5. For the conduct of military operations, I was attached to the Unit called South Column commanded by Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, The Regiment of Artillery. Under his Command, my Unit had penetrated the enemy territory. We had launched an offensive attack on entrenched enemy post at about 40 miles distance from a Border Security Force Police Post in Indian territory. As the Unit Medical Officer, my duties and responsibilities were that of treating and holding battle casualties at my Unit location in Chittagong Hill Tracts. The Force Headquarters of Op Eagle had the duty and the responsibility of evacuation of battle casualties from the Unit location to the Field Hospital.

6. During the initial phase of Op Eagle, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi withheld her permission for the use of helicopter flight from India to the Unit location in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

7. In the absence of helicopter flight, Brigadier T S Oberoi, Commandant Hq Est No. 22, the Field Commander at the Force Headquarters, Op Eagle had no alternate or contingency plan for immediate and safe evacuation of battle casualties from Chittagong Hill Tracts to the Field Hospital.

8. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was briefed about this battle casualty evacuation problem. The Prime Minister gave permission for helicopter flights from India to Chittagong Hill Tracts on Day 5 of Op Eagle while it was in progress.

9. My actions in the execution of Op Eagle as Medical Officer clearly show that I had taken the initiative and had responded in a timely manner at a critical juncture, went Beyond the Call of Duty, and had performed my tasks without sense of fear and without concern for my personal safety inside enemy territory where we faced the threat of enemy retaliation and the threat of Mizo rebels who had operated on both sides of the Indo-Pak border. To give you a perspective about the nature of Op Eagle, the battle casualty evacuation on Day 4/5 involved a physically challenging march of over 80 miles within 24 hours across remote, roadless, hilly, forest terrain. Kindly let me know if any other Army Medical Corps Medical Officer had performed a similar task which included providing medical care, comfort, and nursing duties which are rendered by Nursing Assistants and Ambulance Assistants during battle casualty evacuation.

10. Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan had initiated a citation that recommended the grant of a Gallantry Award – Vir Chakra to recognize my meritorious service; the citation was approved and recommended by Brigadier T S Oberoi, and by Major General Sujan Singh Uban, Inspector General, Special Frontier Force.

11. Kindly direct the Under Secretary ( Cer ), Ministry of Defence to issue this  Gallantry Award as recommended by my Unit during Op Eagle.

Thanking You,

Yours Faithfully,

Dr. R. R. Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Ex – Personal Number. MS-8466, Rank. CAPTAIN, AMC/SSC

Medical Officer, South Column, Operation Eagle (1971)

Headquarters Establishment No. 22  C/O  56  A.P.O.

 

THE ART OF BATTLEFIELD MEDICINE


The Battle Field Resuscitation of Prince Lakshmana by HANUMAN

The Battlefield Resuscitation of Prince Lakshmana by HANUMAN

In the epic poem of Ramayana, the battle wounded Lakshmana is resuscitated by a medicinal herb known as 'SANJIVANI', fetched by mighty Hanuman.Ramayana also describes the Art of Diagnosing the Medical Condition known as 'SHOCK' from the facial appearance of the Battle Casualty.

In the epic poem of Ramayana, the battle wounded Lakshmana is resuscitated by a medicinal herb known as ‘SANJIVANI’, fetched by mighty Hanuman.Ramayana also describes the Art of Diagnosing the Medical Condition known as ‘SHOCK’ from the facial appearance of the Battle Casualty.

Florence Nightingale became famous for her role in providing CARE and COMFORT to the Battle Casualties in the Crimean War.

Florence Nightingale became famous for her role in providing CARE and COMFORT to the Battle Casualties in the Crimean War.

The Flag of Indian Army Medical Corps symbolizes its Primary Mission.

The Flag of Indian Army Medical Corps symbolizes its Primary Mission.

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE – OPERATION EAGLE – LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH 1971 :

OPERATION EAGLE 1971 – THE ART OF BATTLEFIELD MEDICINE

Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India had initiated Liberation of Bangladesh during 1971 with military action in Chittagong Hill Tracts. The battle plan of this military action is known as Operation Eagle. This post is related to that battlefield experience.

Army represents a large organized force armed and trained for War. The Primary Mission of Army is to wage a War or to defend itself in a War. The purpose of Army Medical Corps is to support the Army to accomplish its Primary Mission. AMC provides support during the Battle, while preparing for the Battle and to keep the Army Battle-Ready at all times. In a Combat, when a direct or indirect contact with an enemy is made, Casualties could occur. These Casualties could fall into three groups :

Group I : These are killed outright or severely wounded past any help. I had personally witnessed such Battle Casualties who had died in my presence. However, it is important to identify them and document the nature of injuries with an aim to develop a strategy to use more effective Battle Plans and in evolving better personal protective clothing and devices.

Group II : These Casualties are severely wounded, they require continuous medical support and supervision and transportation to a Field Hospital for appropriate Life saving Surgery and further definitive treatment in a Base Hospital.

Group III : These Casualties are less critically injured persons who need minimal medical attention. When appropriately treated at the Battalion level, they could be immediately returned to the Combat Operations and very useful in sustaining the numbers of the fighting force.

Army Medical Corps acts to prevent the loss of life amongst the Group II and Group III casualties. In doing so, AMC provides a blanket of ‘Care’ and ‘Comfort’ to those injured and it acts to boost up the morale of the entire fighting Force. AMC personnel take part in military Operations as Combatants and are entitled to carry their personal weapons.

THE EFFECTS OF BATTLE INJURIES :

The battle wound is a ‘CONTINUING’ injury and its effects on the entire body are dynamic ones. If  left unattended, the physical condition of the Battle Casualty deteriorates. Hemorrhage or loss of blood from a blood vessel is a major contributing factor to Shock and death. Most of those patients with wounds of great vessels of the chest and abdomen bleed to death before getting medical help. Bleeding could be; (a) External or visible, or (b) Internal or invisible. Apart from loss of blood, injuries damage soft tissues, internal organs and structures like bones and nerves.

Resuscitation actually means the act of reviving or restoring the vital functions of a severely wounded person. Resuscitation involves those procedures which are carried out to counteract the effect of the wound. Since the wound is a ‘continuing’ injury and its effects on the entire body are ‘dynamic’ ones, the Resuscitation is a process of ‘continuing’ treatment. Since the effects of the wound start as soon as the man is injured, Resuscitation should start as soon as the wounded man is seen. Hence, ‘FORWARD’ Medical Care is essential for the survival of the wounded. Resuscitation must commence in the ‘Field’ where the Battle Casualty is found. The AMC personnel, Medical Officers, Nursing Assistants, and Ambulance Assistants are combatants and it is not unfair to send trained medical personnel in the Combat Zone. Use of a qualified doctor in the ‘Forward’ location is far more beneficial to the wounded soldier. During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, I was present in the Combat Zone and my services were immediately made available to the wounded soldiers and had directly witnessed the benefits of initiating early treatment of Battle casualties. The concept of ‘Combat Life Saver’ improves the chances of Casualty survival. Emergency life saving treatment must start as far ‘FORWARD’ as possible and it must continue as a Casualty is evacuated to the rear. It must be understood that swift medical treatment greatly enhances survival. AMC must plan to provide Emergency medical treatment of soldiers at or near a Combat Zone to increase the chances of survival. The next major problem which contributes to the death of Casualties is that of a faulty Evacuation Plan. Lack of transportation is often the primary cause of untimely Evacuation. I had personally encountered this problem of lack of transportation during the initial phase of the Indo-Pak War of 1971 but I met this challenge with courage and had taken my patients on a memorable foot journey and had them airlifted. My patients had all survived this ordeal. The initial treatment in the battle field is important to ensure that the Casualty will stand the journey to the rear. The wounded patient must be able to survive the journey and should not arrive at the Field Hospital dead or dying.

THE PRIMARY AIMS OF TREATMENT AT BATTALION LEVEL :

1. If necessary, establish and maintain an adequate airway. The basic mechanisms of respiration should be intact. A ‘sucking’ wound of the chest must be immediately sealed.

2. Bleeding should be stopped or arrested. Severe blood loss may not be evident immediately after injury. After wounding, a blood-volume deficiency will always occur. As opposed to internal bleeding, bleeding from blood vessels in extremities can be controlled more easily. The pressure dressing used must be tight enough to control bleeding. If applied properly, pressure dressings will often control major hemorrhage than the use of a tourniquet. The aim is to prevent the onset of Shock, delay its progression and to stabilize patient’s condition to prepare him for transportation.

3. Relief of Pain : Pain induces and aggravates stress. Prompt relief of pain provides an enormous sense of Comfort. Pain aggravates the casualty’s poor condition. Fractures apart from causing pain, also increase damage to muscles and thereby promote further blood loss. Fractures must be adequately splinted. Patient must be properly immobilized to withstand Evacuation. The pain associated with most soft tissue injuries could be easily relieved by the use of Morphine. I had very effectively used Injection Tubonic Morphia/ Morphia syrettes 0.25 or 1/4 grain.

4. Prevention of Wound Infection : Wounds break the barriers against bacteria. Bandages should not be applied carelessly. When applied properly, bandages arrest bleeding, prevent disturbance of the wound by foreign objects and prevents further contamination. Battle wounds get easily contaminated. Before clinical evidence of infection, early administration of antibiotics is useful. I had orally administered Tetracycline tablets, a broad-spectrum antibiotic with very good results.

5. DO NOT LAY TOO MUCH EMPHASIS ON TRANSPORTATION : Hurried Evacuation leads to undue deterioration during transportation.  The transportation should not be at the expense of proper treatment. The Medical Officer at the Battalion in a Combat Zone is not merely a First-Aid provider. He is the most important member of the Resuscitative Team. He must take time to institute initial procedures which will best prepare the wounded soldier for transportation. At all times, the Medical Officer must aim to put a Casualty in the best possible condition for transportation in the shortest period of time.

Army Medical Corps and the concept of CARE and COMFORT

Army Medical Corps and the concept of CARE and COMFORT during Battle.

THE CONCEPT OF CARE AND COMFORT :

Army Medical Corps accomplishes its mission of providing ‘CARE’ by making an effort and actually by reaching the Battle Casualty as early as possible. The presence and the physical contact with a person providing medical aid gives the feeling of being cared for. The Battle Casualty should not struggle to find his way to reach the Regimental Aid Post. A Battle Casualty feels reassured if the medical care provider demonstrates a sense of resolve, determination, and purpose in reaching out to the wounded person in the Field. An early and effective medical intervention is the key to deliver ‘Care’ and ‘Comfort’. The human body experiences a sense of improvement when the bleeding is stopped, when the pain is relieved and when you are placed in a position that physiologically contributes to the sense of ‘Comfort’. I also speak about the role of compassionate care in the relief of pain and in the management of pain. Compassion acts like a Force/Power/Energy. It has an uplifting power. Compassion provides both a physical and mental experience on the person providing the care and on the person receiving the care. The caregiver experiences less physical and mental fatigue and would be able to accomplish a physically and mentally challenging task with ease and a sense of joy or happiness. The person receiving the care experiences a sense of calm and reassurance, his pain tolerance improves, he becomes pain resistant and wold require less effort in his pain management both in terms of the dose and the frequency of his pain relief medication. The psychological and physical stress caused by the battle injuries is reduced as the wounded person experiences a sense of joy or happiness for getting compassionate attention. Human touch is a powerful tool in the arena of Battlefield Medicine. 

Armed Forces Medical College, Pune and the AMC Centre and School in Lucknow should prepare Medical Officers to face the Greatest Challenge of its Primary Mission.

Armed Forces Medical College, Pune and the AMC Centre and School in Lucknow should prepare Medical Officers to face the Greatest Challenge of its Primary Mission.

THE GREATEST CHALLENGE FOR ARMY MEDICAL CORPS  :

The lives of the seriously wounded soldiers depend upon the professional skills of the Medical Officer and other medical personnel deployed at the Battalion level. I had served as a Medical Officer at a Battalion level during the Indo-Pak War of 1971, and had later trained in a Field Hospital in providing support to an Infantry Division, and in a Medical Battalion that was providing medical support to an Armoured Division. I had also used this experience in serving the Land Forces of the Sultanate of Oman. The need for the best trained men in the most ’FORWARD’ location where the greatest test of ability is made remains the Greatest Challenge for the Army Medical Corps. AMC must orient its policy and training to achieve this end. AMC must apportion training time of the Medical Officer so that a maximum training occurs in the Combat Zone in providing initial Resuscitative Care to the Battle Casualty. To supervise the training of the medical care support personnel, the Medical Officer should also be trained to acquire the professional skills that are used by a Nursing Assistant and an Ambulance Assistant. In the Art of Battle-Field Medicine, no job is a small job.

The Indo-Pak War of 1971 and the Birth of Bangladesh are very significant achievements of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As I was then serving in an Establishment under the Cabinet Secretariat, I had direct and personal understanding of her Foreign Policy Initiatives. She had personally approved our military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts. In the conduct of this War, we had faced a very critical moment and it needed her personal intervention and a decision that she alone could make. I rendered my services and had overcome the challenge posed by that critical situation. The importance of this situation could be understood as it needed an intervention from the Prime Minister. I am now asking the Government of India to recognize my GALLANT response in enemy’s territory without any concern for my personal safety.

Please feel free to share this page with your friends and others who may care about preserving the lives of the battle wounded persons.

Dr. R. R.Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,  

Ex-Number. MS-8466 Rank. LIEUTENANT/CAPTAIN  AMC/SSC   

Medical Officer South Column Operation Eagle 1971

Headquarters Establishment No. 22  C/O  56  APO   

Related Blog Posts :

1. Award of Gallantry Awards – Indo-Pak War of 1971.

http://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2010/04/03/award-of-gallantry-awards-indo-pak-war-of-1971/  

2. The Medical Plan for Fifth Army in Bangladesh The Experience of Madhurya in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

http://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2010/04/05/the-medical-plan-for-fifth-army-the-experience-of-madhurya-in-chittagong-hill-tracts/

3. The Fifth Army – The Untold Story from Chittagong Hill Tracts – August 18, 2009

4. The Phantoms of Chittagong – A Story from Chittagong Hill Tracts – August 17, 2009

5. The Victory over Death – The Psychology of Warfare – July 13, 2009

6. The Spirit of a Jew – Revisiting the Birth of Bangladesh – February 10, 2009

7. India and Iran – What is the Connection ? – January 28, 2009

8. Sangram Medal 1971 – A Story that I Shared with the Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services – November 11, 2009

9. Liberation War of Bangladesh – Fallen Heroes on Both Sides – October 28, 2007

10. About Guns, Victory, and Gallantry Awards – Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 – October 23, 2007

 

THE VICTORY OVER DEATH – THE PSYCHOLOGY OF WARFARE


en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murudeshwara View Large ...

Image via Wikipedia

LORD SHIVA, TRIYAMBAKA

LORD SHIVA, TRIYAMBAKA – Blessings for Victory over Death.

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE - OPERATION EAGLE – LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH 1971:

OPERATION EAGLE 1971 – THE VICTORY OVER DEATH – THE PSYCHOLOGY OF WARFARE

Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India had initiated Liberation of Bangladesh during 1971 with military action in Chittagong Hill Tracts. The battle plan of this military action is known as Operation Eagle. This blog post is related to the war experience obtained by conducting the military operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Kachumbar/Cucumber, Cucumis sativus, a native of India.

Kachumbar/Cucumber, Cucumis sativus, a native of India.

'DOSA KAI', A POPULAR CUCUMBER OF TELUGU PEOPLE.

‘DOSA KAI’, A POPULAR CUCUMBER OF TELUGU PEOPLE.

MRITYUNJAYA MAHA MANTRA

MRITYUNJAYA MAHA MANTRA

MRITYUNJAYA MAHA MANTRA :

Om, Triyambakam, Yajamahe,

Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam,

Urvaru kamiva bandhanaan

Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritaat.

This hymn in praise of Lord Shiva also known as ‘Triyambaka’ appears in the ancient Vedic Book of ‘Rig Veda’. It expresses a very unique idea or concept about conquering death. This idea has originated in India as the idea is connected to a plant that is a native of India. Man is mortal, and just like a fully ripened fruit falls off from a tree, a man ripe in his age, even when not afflicted by any disease or sickness, would meet natural physical death. This Mantra suggests that a man can become ‘immortal’( a person  who has consumed the divine nectar known as ‘Amrita’) and conquer physical death( Mrityu) by simply severing his psychological attachment to his own life and liberating( Mukshiya) himself from bondage. This Mantra compares the act of cutting attachments to free oneself( Mukti) to secure victory( Jaya) over physical death( Mrityu) to the act of harvesting Cucumbers( Urvaru). The pedicle(Kamiva or the stalk of the fruit) should be severed to separate the fruit from its attachment(Bandhan) to the Vine.

Cucumber, Cucumis sativus is a vine fruit. It is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family. It is native to northwestern India and is being cultivated for thousands of years. The fruit is harvested in the immature stage and is eaten in its unripe, green form. The ripe fruit turns bitter and is not eaten. The fruit is firmly attached to the vine by its stalk or pedicle. The unripe, green fruit would not naturally fall off from the vine. The farmer harvests the Cucumber by cutting off the pedicle( Kamiva). This analogy of severing the connection and freeing the Cucumber also implies that man should not wait until he reaches a very ripe age to conquer physical death. A man who is still at an unripe age or still young in years, just like the unripe and green fruit of Cucumber, should plan to overcome death or his ‘liberation’ from death, by cutting away the stalk or pedicle which symbolizes ‘attachment’( bandhan). The ‘attachment’ in the context of man and his mortality could be described as his ‘Fear of Death’. By overcoming his ‘Fear of Death’, a man’s ‘attachment’ to the ‘Vine of Life’ is severed and he is ‘Liberated’ (Mukshiya) from Death(Mrityu). As long as the ‘Fear of Death’ is alive, man cannot win his battle against Death and mortality. To achieve ’immortality’, man must conquer his ‘Fear of Death’. Indians seek to praise (Yajamahe) the Lord known as ‘Triyambaka’ for He had declared His victory over Death(Mrityu) by burning away all of His desires and had become Free from all Attachments. Shiva physically demonstrates His Freedom from Attachments by covering His entire body with ashes( Bhasma), the burnt residue of His desires.

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF WARFARE  :

An Infantry soldier to ‘attack’ his enemy’s position has to physically ‘advance’ towards the entrenched enemy and directly confront the enemy. The ‘assault’ on the enemy’s position or site is carefully planned and the Infantry soldier is physically, and psychologically ready for his task which exposes him to the threat of death. The soldier loosens the attachment called the ‘Fear of Death’ in his march towards the enemy. A man who is tied down by the ‘Fear of Death’ cannot physically move towards his enemy who symbolizes the threat of death. I had participated in the 1971 War of Liberation of Bangladesh. The men of my Unit had not recited the ‘Mrityunjaya Maha Mantra’, but they had used its concept in their psychological preparation for War and in their attack on their enemy’s positions. Our success in 1971 over the enemy had demonstrated that the concept of breaking the stalk or pedicle is useful to gain victory over the ‘Fear of Death’ before we actually meet the threat of Death.

The Psychology of Warfare.The Indo-Pak War of 1971 and the Birth of Bangladesh are very significant achievements of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As I was then serving in an Establishment under the Cabinet Secretariat, I had direct and personal understanding of her Foreign Policy Initiatives. She had personally approved our military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts. In the conduct of this War, we had faced a very critical moment and it needed her personal intervention and a decision that she alone could make. I rendered my services and had overcome the challenge posed by that critical situation. The importance of this situation could be understood as it needed an intervention from the Prime Minister. I am now asking the Government of India to recognize my GALLANT response in enemy’s territory without any concern for my personal safety.

In my blog post titled “PROUD TO BE AN INDIAN”, dated Monday, September 17, 2007, I had described the ability to conquer fear as ‘Courage’. Courage does not mean the absence of ’Fear’. Rani Padmini has truly immortalized herself by her victory over the ‘Fear of Death’. She had defeated her enemy’s intention to violate her personal dignity and honor. She could embrace fire for she had overcome the ‘Fear of Death’. She lives in our hearts today as a truly “IMMORTAL” person. She could be described as a person who had declared Victory over Death(Mrityun Jaya).

http://www.youtube.com/Watch?v=Sat5WwAxTws

Dr. R. R. Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Ex-Number.  MS-8466, Rank. LIEUTENANT/CAPTAIN  AMC/SSC 

Medical Officer South Column Operation Eagle 1971 

Headquarters Establishment No. 22  C/O  56  APO

Related Blog Posts :

http://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2010/04/03/award-of-gallantry-awards-indo-pak-war-of-1971/

http://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2010/04/05/the-medical-plan-for-fifth-army-the-experience-of-madhurya-in-chittagong-hill-tracts/

1. Liberation War of Bangladesh – Fallen Heroes on Both Sides .

2. About Guns, Victory, and Gallantry Awards – Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971

3. The Phantoms of Chittagong – A Story from Chittagong Hill Tracts 

4. The Fifth Army – The Untold Story from Chittagong Hill Tracts 

5. The Medical Plan for Fifth Army in Bangladesh – The Experience of Madhurya in Chittagong Hill Tracts

THE FIFTH ARMY – THE UNTOLD STORY FROM CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS


View of lush green Bandarban hills and valley

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE – OPERATION EAGLE – LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH 1971:

Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India had initiated Liberation of Bangladesh during 1971 with military action in Chittagong Hill Tracts. This battle plan is known as Operation Eagle.

A PHOTO ID PICTURE TAKEN IN 1972 AFTER THE LIBERATION WAR.
A PHOTO ID PICTURE TAKEN IN 1972 AFTER THE LIBERATION WAR.

In this picture, I have no medal ribbons to display. The medals for participation in the Indo-Pak War of 1971 had arrived later.

Major General Sujan Singh Uban, the Commander of Special Frontier Force.

Major General Sujan Singh Uban, the Commander of Special Frontier Force.The Commander of the ‘Fifth Army’ in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

General Sujan Singh Uban had narrated his story in his book titled ‘The Phantoms of Chittagong : The Fifth Army in Bangladesh.

Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands(December 1985 to December 1989) – Lieutenant General(Retd) TS Oberoi, PVSM, VrC., former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Headquarters Southern Command, Pune, former Inspector General, Special Frontier Force, former Commandant, Headquarters Establishment No. 22. He is the tall person in this photo wearing dark brown turban. I knew him since 1971. Under his able leadership, the Liberation of Bangladesh had commenced in the year 1971 during the Indo-Pak War.Apart from his military wisdom, he took a good care of all men under his Command. While I was proceeding to Chittagong Hill Tracts, he had individually greeted all the members of my team and had delayed the departure of aircraft to ensure that a hot breakfast was served to all the men boarding the aircraft. He paid personal attention to all the aspects of the military mission to ensure the wellbeing of men apart from achieving success in accomplishing the military task. The sense of warmth he radiated is easily felt when we meet him in person. His grandson provided me the link to this photo. Photo Credit – Trishna-Ajay-Picasa Web Album.

A VIEW OF INDIAN MIZO HILLS FROM CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS

A VIEW OF INDIAN MIZO HILLS FROM CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS

Rivers and streams flow throughout the region of Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Rivers and streams flow throughout the region of Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Early morning dense fog and mist in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Early morning dense fog and mist in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

I used a large waterproof poncho to get protection from early morning mist and dew.

I used a large waterproof poncho to get protection from early morning mist and dew.

The Fifth Army operated in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

The Fifth Army operated in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Chittagong Hill Tracts is sparsely populated with isolated dwellings.

Chittagong Hill Tracts is sparsely populated with isolated dwellings.

The Simplicity of Chakma Existence.

The Simplicity of Chakma Existence.

The CHAKMA posed no threat but we had avoided direct contact.

The CHAKMA posed no threat but we had avoided direct contact.

I had camped at Kaptai Lake and it is memorable.

I had camped at Kaptai Lake and it is memorable.

I had regularly visited men deployed in Kaptai Lake Area.

I had regularly visited men deployed in Kaptai Lake Area.

We had never planned to blow up the dam over Karnaphuli River at KAPTAI.

We had never planned to blow up the dam over Karnaphuli River at KAPTAI.

For brief moments during 1971, messages in TELUGU language had appeared in the radio waves transmitted across Chittagong Hill Tracts.

For brief moments during 1971, messages in TELUGU language had appeared in the radio waves transmitted across Chittagong Hill Tracts.

We had operated in an area under the operational control of IV CORPS.

We had operated in an area under the operational control of IV CORPS.

Lieutenant General T S Oberoi, the Southern Army Commander during 1983, the former Inspector General of Special Frontier Force is seen in this photo wearing a helmet. The photo was taken during 1982 while he had visited A S C Centre, Bangalore. He would have executed Operation Blue Star with due care and concern to save the lives of his men and also the civilians.

General T S Oberoi had exuded a natural sense of affection and warmth for he had truly cared about the men under his Command and this is a quality that men would seek in the Chief of Army Staff and he was denied that opportunity. Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi made a political choice and had appointed General K S Sundarji as the Chief of Army Staff. General T S Oberoi, the senior Army Commander, had to unfortunately retire from Service in 1985 and was appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and served in that capacity until 1989.

In the history of Indian Army Medical Corps for the first time during 1971 I had provided the services of a Medical Officer, a Nursing Assistant, and an Ambulance Assistant.

In the history of Indian Army Medical Corps for the first time during 1971 I had provided the services of a Medical Officer, a Nursing Assistant, and an Ambulance Assistant.

I was trained in the use of a 9 mm SMG or Sten Gun. I had chosen to march into enemy territory without my personal weapon to defend myself. I did not throw away my weapon and I did not surrender my weapon to the enemy which are crimes under law. War is a team effort. My contribution to this team effort is not based upon firing bullets from my Sten Gun. I had totally discarded any concerns about my personal safety and worked for the success of the team. I have shown Courage by not carrying this Sten Gun and in following my team like a shadow and confronting the enemy as a TEAM.

I was trained in the use of a 9 mm SMG or Sten Gun. I had chosen to march into enemy territory without my personal weapon to defend myself. I did not throw away my weapon and I did not surrender my weapon to the enemy which are crimes under law. War is a team effort. My contribution to this team effort is not based upon firing bullets from my Sten Gun. I had totally discarded any concerns about my personal safety and worked for the success of the team. I have shown Courage by not carrying this Sten Gun and in following my team like a shadow and confronting the enemy as a TEAM.

The Indo-Pak War of 1971 and the Birth of Bangladesh are very significant achievements of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As I was then serving in an Establishment under the Cabinet Secretariat, I had direct and personal understanding of her Foreign Policy Initiatives. She had personally approved the ‘Fifth Army’s military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts. In the conduct of this War, we had faced a very critical moment and it needed her personal intervention and a decision that she alone could make. I rendered my services and had overcome the challenge posed by that critical situation. The importance of this situation could be understood as it needed an intervention from the Prime Minister. I am now asking the Government of India to recognize my GALLANT response in enemy’s territory without any concern for my personal safety.

I am pleased to claim that I had established an entirely new record in providing medical support to the battle wounded in an operational area of Chittagong Hill Tracts during Operation Eagle 1971, Liberation War of Bangladesh. To provide medical support to the battle casualties, I had reached the casualties at the enemy post that we had just captured. I was the only Army Medical Corps person on the ground. We had no stretchers, blankets, and resuscitation fluids. The casualties could not be airlifted as per the prior Medical Evacuation Plan. The men felt outraged. I had comforted them with my assurance that I would accompany them to the nearest helipad that was located over forty miles away at the  Border Security Force outpost of Bonapansuria near the border in the Indian Mizo Hills. The men prepared improvised stretchers. We had no Infantry Officer to accompany us. A party of about 65 men, a Bangla Refugee as a guide, carried all the battle casualties in stretchers and had camped overnight in the forest and had reached the helipad at Bonapansuria the next day morning. I had acted as the Medical Officer, the Nursing Assistant, and an Ambulance Assistant for the battle wounded during this foot journey through the difficult hilly and forest terrain. They had reached the Field Hospital in Lungleh in very good spirits and in a stable condition in spite of being critically wounded.

Lungleh, or Lunglei, was the destination for my battle wounded patients.

Lungleh, or Lunglei, was the destination for my battle wounded patients.

THE FLAG OF INDIAN ARMY MEDICAL CORPS.

THE FLAG OF INDIAN ARMY MEDICAL CORPS.

The sense of resolve, determination, and confidence with which I had accompanied my patients and had performed a foot journey walking over forty miles through the forests of Chittagong Hill Tracts during Operation Eagle 1971 had given the sense of comfort and reassurance the men needed to boost up their morale. In the medical evacuation of battle casualties from the battle field, Army Medical Corps typically uses several Nursing Assistants and Ambulance Assistants who perform a variety of tasks. I had the unique privilege to perform their duties for I have a true sense of appreciation for the valuable services they render in providing patient care and comfort. I had actually self-learned the tasks they perform and knew it would be of a great value and an asset for my success as a Medical officer of Indian Army.

Dr. R. R. Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Ex- Number. MS-8466 Rank. LIEUTENANT/CAPTAIN  AMC/SSC

Medical Officer South Column Operation Eagle 1971

Headquarters Establishment No. 22  C/O  56  APO

Related Blog Posts :

1. About Guns, Victory, and Gallantry Awards – Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 – October 23, 2007

2. Liberation War of Bangladesh – Fallen Heroes on Both Sides – October 28, 2007

3. Sangram Medal 1971 – A Story that I Shared with the Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services. – November 22, 2007

4. India and Iran – What is the Connection ? -  January 28, 2008

5. The Spirit of a Jew – Revisiting the Birth of Bangladesh – February 10, 2009

6. The Victory over Death – The Psychology of Warfare – July 13, 2009

7. The Phantoms of Chittagong – A Story from Chittagong Hill Tracts – August 17, 2009

8. The Medical Plan for Fifth Army in Bangladesh – The Experience of Madhurya in Chittagong Hill Tracts – August 18, 2009

9. Award of Gallantry Awards – Indo-Pak War of 1971 – August 25, 2009

10. The Art of Battlefield Medicine – September 01, 2009

 

AWARD OF GALLANTRY AWARDS – INDO-PAK WAR OF 1971


This map contains my estimates of the units in...

This map contains estimates of the units involved in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

MS-8466 CAPTAIN. R. Rudra Narasimham, AMC/SSC

MS-8466 CAPTAIN. R. Rudra Narasimham, Army Medical Corps/Short Service Regular Commission. During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, the Special Frontier Force under the Command of Major General Sujan Singh Uban conducted an independent military operation called Operation Eagle in The Chittagong Hill Tracts. This Op Eagle was planned and executed by Indian Prime Minister Srimati Indira Gandhi. Brigadier T S Oberoi was the Commander at the Force Headquarters in the operational area. Including myself, a total of six Medical Officers took part in this military operation. Four of us were recommended to recieve Service Awards. Major PCM Mehta, Surgical Specialist, Dr. Major(Honorary) Ramesh Chandra, the Senior Medical Officer, Captain Ashok Kumar Jaiswal, Unit Medical Officer of the Unit commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Prasanta Coomar Purkayastha of Garhwal Rifles had received Vishisht Seva Medals as recommended. I was the only Medical Officer who was recommended the award of Vir Chakra. Major General Sujan Singh Uban, Brigadier TS Oberoi, Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, the Regiment of Artillery Officer who was my Unit Commander, and all others know the reasons as to why I was recommended to receive the gallantry award of Vir Chakra and not some other award like Vishisht Seva Medal which the other three Medical Officers had received.Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s military operation known as Operation Eagle 1971 delivered the first blow in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and initiated the Liberation of Bangladesh.

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE-OPERATION EAGLE 1971-LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH-GALLANTRY AWARD:

AWARD OF GALLANTRY AWARDS – OPERATION EAGLE 1971 – CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS – LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH

November o4, 1971. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sent us to Mizo Hills-Chittagong Hill Tracts Border between India and East Pakistan and met the U.S. President Richard Nixon at the White House. She made an earnest effort to get American support for our military mission. She didn't know that Dr. Henry Kissinger, the Secretary of State had secretly contacted China's Prime Minister and had directly encouraged Communist China to attack India across the Himalayan frontier and thwart our attempt to Liberate Bangladesh. China was too busy plotting the major "Tet" offensive in Vietnam to deliver a defeat to the U.S. Army. Our military operation proceeded as China had refused to frustrate our efforts.

November o4, 1971. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sent us to Mizo Hills-Chittagong Hill Tracts Border between India and East Pakistan and met the U.S. President Richard Nixon at the White House. She made an earnest effort to get American support for our military mission. She didn’t know that Dr. Henry Kissinger, the Secretary of State had secretly contacted China’s Prime Minister and had directly encouraged Communist China to attack India across the Himalayan frontier and thwart our attempt to Liberate Bangladesh. China was too busy plotting the major “Tet” offensive in Vietnam to deliver a defeat to the U.S. Army. Our military operation proceeded as China had refused to frustrate our efforts.

November 04. 1971. The United States, Tibet, and India are military partners of an alliance/pact that created Establishment No. 22/Special Frontier Force during November 1962. The United States was only opposed to the creation of Bangladesh because of its friendly relations with Pakistan. President Nixon continued to support Special Frontier Force and its mission to oppose the military threat posed by Communist China's occupation of Tibet. President Nixon as a gracious host entertained Prime Minister Indira Gandhi at the White House by hosting a performance by these New York City Ballet performers.

November 04. 1971. The United States, Tibet, and India are military partners of an alliance/pact that created Establishment No. 22/Special Frontier Force during November 1962. The United States was only opposed to the creation of Bangladesh because of its friendly relations with Pakistan. President Nixon continued to support Special Frontier Force and its mission to oppose the military threat posed by Communist China’s occupation of Tibet. President Nixon as a gracious host entertained Prime Minister Indira Gandhi at the White House by hosting a performance by these New York City Ballet performers.

LIBERATION WAR OF BANGLADESH – AWARD CEREMONY AFTER 40 YEARS.

Major General Sujan Singh Uban, Inspector General of Special Frontier Force, was given the task of conducting a military operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts and it was named Operation Eagle.His military mission was directly supervised by Srimati Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister of India.

The Indo-Pak War of 1971 involved a War between India and Pakistan and the War was fought by the members of the armed forces on either side. In the Eastern Sector, the Indian Army military operation was planned and executed by Headquarters Eastern Command. I had participated in Operation Eagle, a military operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts. This military operation was planned personally by India’s Prime Minister, Srimati. Indira Gandhi. She had personally approved the battle plan, the rules of engagement, and the issue of Marching Orders. She made all the critical decisions. The Prime Minister’s Office, the Cabinet Secretariat had passed the executive orders and instructions for the conduct of this military operation. She had never delegated her powers to other Staff members or assistants and had exercised a tight control in the execution of all military acts as per the battle plan that was approved by her. In the history of Republic of India, for the first time, the Prime Minister conducted a military operation of this magnitude using assistance from nontraditional fighting elements. This is of historical importance. I give her due credit for her bold initiative, qualities of leadership and her personal attention to all the critical aspects of our military mission. The records, the documents, the signal communications that directly pertain to Operation Eagle are not held at HQ Eastern Command and Army Headquarters in New Delhi. The Indian Army field commanders had no direct involvement in this Operation and they did not issue any orders for my participation or deployment for this military act. The Battle Plan of Operation Eagle includes the rules and conditions that formulated the eligibility criteria of its participants to receive Military Honours and Awards with or without any affiliation to Indian Army or the Ministry of Defence. Under these eligibility criteria several Civilian Officers serving in the Directorate General of Security of the Cabinet Secretariat had received Military Honours and Awards in recognition of their service rendered during Operation Eagle. These include Shri. Sujan Singh Uban who had received the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Dr. Ramesh Chandra who had received the Vishisht Seva Medal, Shri. Tara Chand Pande who had received the Vishisht Seva Medal, and Shri. G B Velankar who had received the Gallantry Award of Vir Chakra.

MS-8466 Captain. R. Rudra Narasimham, AMC/SSC had served as Medical Officer at Headquarters Establishment No. 22 C/O  56  APO from September 1971 to December 1974. During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, he had participated in a mission described as ‘difficult’ and ‘hazardous’. He had provided medical support to the troops operating in the roadless, forest terrain of Chittagong Hill Tracts. His Commander, Major General Sujan Singh Uban, AVSM, the former Inspector General of Special Frontier Force had published a book  titled ’The Phantoms of Chittagong : The Fifth Army in Bangladesh’. General Uban had narrated the difficult nature of his military mission and the successful accomplishment of his task. For the Courage, Determination, Resolve, and Confidence displayed while operating inside the enemy territory, this Medical Officer was recommended for the award of ‘VIR CHAKRA’. The Citation recommending this Gallantry Award was made by Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan of the Regiment of Artillery, the Infantry Commander of the South Column Unit of Operation Eagle in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The military act that won recognition involved courage in the performance of military duties with minimal protection while facing the threat from  two different sources; 1. the threat of enemy forces in the area, and 2. the threat of Mizo rebels who had operated on both sides of the border between India, and Pakistan in that area. The risks of conducting a medical evacuation( which is the responsibility of the Force headquarters of Operation Eagle and not of the South Column Unit ) was fully understood by the Unit Commander and the operational Force Commander Brigadier T S Oberoi and SFF Commander Major General Sujan Singh Uban. However, the Force Headquarters had failed to execute its Medical Evacuation Plan for the battle and the Unit was assigned this difficult task in an area where there are no roads. The Unit Commander did not order this Unit Medical Officer to personally direct this medical evacuation and escort the battle wounded to their destination. The Medical Officer on his own initiative had responded to this challenge and went beyond the Call of his Duty and had completed the task without exposing his medical staff( Nursing Assistants ) to any risk to their lives. The Medical Officer, apart from his role as a doctor, had performed the duties of the Army Medical Corps Nursing Assistants who provide nursing care and comfort during  the process of medical evacuation. In the Annual Confidential Report for 1971-72 initiated by Lieutenant Colonel. B K Narayan, this Medical Officer’s performance during the 1971 War had been very warmly appreciated.The fact of recommendation made to confer gallantry award to this Medical Officer was  duly recorded. Colonel Iqbal Singh of the Regiment of Artillery had served as the Chief of Staff at the Force Headquarters of Op Eagle Commanded by Brigadier T S Oberoi during this Operation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. During 1972, this Medical Officer was posted to a Unit that was Commanded by Colonel Iqbal Singh. This Medical Officer had applied for the grant of Direct Permanent Commission(DPC) in the Army Medical Corps. In his remarks on that application for the grant of DPC, Colonel Iqbal Singh gave a very detailed account of the Medical Officer’s performance during the 1971 War. During the AMC Examination of 1972 that was held in the month of September, this Medical Officer was interviewed by the Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services(DGAFMS) in the presence of a Selection Committee. When questioned by the DGAFMS, the Medical Officer had narrated his role in providing medical support to troops involved in a difficult Operation. The DGAFMS had openly praised this Officer and had commended his performance and had concluded the interview with no further questions. The Officer was granted Direct Permanent Commission in the AMC with effect from March 07, 1973 and  allotted his personal number of MR-03277 K. The Medical Officer was not awarded the Gallantry Award for which he was recommended. The reasons stated by the Ministry of Defence were flimsy and at the best ridiculous. The reason for not conferring the award  was communicated to his South Column Unit of Special Frontier Force; the reason stated was that of the delay in submitting the Citation. The delay is just understandable. The Officer was deputed to the Special Frontier Force and his Commander Lieutenant Colonel. B K Narayan was not aware of the rules involved in submitting such a Citation in the time frame expected by the Military Secretary’s Branch of Army Hqrs, Ministry of Defence. Operation Eagle had established specific criteria and eligibility requirements for recognition to receive Service Medals, Honours, and Awards. We had followed those rules given by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretariat.The citation was sent direct to Army Headquarters Medical Directorate and had not used the Staff channels that Units operating under the command of HQ Eastern Command would have used. This Officer is of the view that a Gallantry Award is not the equivalent of winning a Prize in a Lucky Draw. This officer had stated that the “History cannot be rewritten”. At his Home Page of Bhavanajagat, the Officer had published a blog post with the title:”The Medical Plan for Fifth Army, The Experience of Madhurya in Chittagong Hill Tracts.” The Officer had narrated his account of a memorable Medical Evacuation of his battle wounded patients from the captured enemy post in the Chittagong Hill Tracts to the Border Security Post(BSF) of Bona Pansuria in the Mizo Hills. From that BSF Post, the war casualties were airlifted to a Field Hospital in Lunglei  Mizoram. This remarkable journey on foot through enemy territory is known to all the Officers and men of his South Column Unit. The men had belonged to the Companies Commanded by Major Savendra Singh Negi, and Major G B Velankar. Both these officers were awarded Vir Chakra for the display of their Courage. This AMC Officer was the only medical support person to reach the just captured enemy post and was informed by the Unit Commander that a helicopter flight was not available for Casualty Evacuation. The men were greatly surprised. The Unit had not carried stretchers, blankets, and medical resuscitation fluids. The Fifth Army of Operation Eagle had not established Medical Staging Posts/ ‘Advanced Dressing Station’ in the Field for collection and Evacuation of Battle Casualties. This Medical Officer had courageously responded to this situation that was the result of the total failure of the Battle Casualty Evacuation Plan of Operation Eagle. The South Column Unit had not anticipated this difficulty posed by the lack of helicopter flight for airlifting the battle wounded soldiers. This Medical Officer had directed the preparation of improvised stretchers and the Unit Commander assembled a party of about sixty-five men to carry all the critically wounded patients on the improvised stretchers. The Medical Officer led this Medical Evacuation Team and he had no help from an Infantry Officer. They made a night halt in the forest during the long journey. This AMC Officer apart from giving medical care had also assumed the duties and responsibilities of a Nursing Assistant and that of an Ambulance Assistant during this historical march. He had remained vigilant, giving care, comfort, and reassurance to his patients and kept them in good spirits during a tedious and slow journey. His patients had survived this ordeal and had provided a very telling account about their evacuation through enemy territory. The BSF Post staff at Bona Pansuria in Mizo Hills had received this team with a sense of great rejoice for the wounded had won in their battle and had vanquished the enemy in their attack. He and his team walked back to the South Column Unit location marching a total distance of over 80 miles in 24 hours. Lieutenant General T S Oberoi, PVSM, VrC, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief at Headquarters Southern Command, Pune had issued a written testimonial during 1983 and had recorded his appreciation for the Services rendered by this Medical Officer during the 1971 War. 

Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands – Lieutenant General(Retd) TS Oberoi, PVSM, VrC( the tall person wearing dark brown turban). Prior to this appointment, General Oberoi was the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief at Headquarters Southern Command, Pune. I had known him since my participation in Operation Eagle 1971. The Liberation of Bangladesh commenced under the able leadership of Brigadier TS Oberoi during 1971. He was promptly promoted to the rank of Major General and was appointed as the Inspector General of Special Frontier Force. He exudes personal warmth at all times. People around him can always feel it. When I had boarded an aircraft to proceed to Chittagong Hill Tracts, he was present to greet us individually and he did not allow the aircraft to takeoff before a hot breakfast was served to all the men. Apart from military wisdom, he was a Commander who truly cared for the men under his Command. When I got married in January 1973, he sent me a long personal letter to give his good wishes. Photo Credit – Trishna-Ajay-Picasa Web Album. General Oberoi’s grandson shared this photo.

Remarks of Lieutenant General T S Oberoi, PVSM, VrC, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief,Headquarters Southern Command Pune 411001. He was the field Commander of Operation Eagle 1971 in Chittagong Hill Tracts while he had served at Headquarters Establishment No. 22 C/O 56 APO as the Commandant.

The remarks made by Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, the Commander of South Column Operation Eagle(dated May 13, 1972) in my Annual Confidential Report for 1971-72 are as follows:”A very conscientious and Tough MO who worked hard during the Bangladesh OPs. He did very well and showed Maturity which was beyond the call of duty. I have recommended this Officer for a gallantry award for which he deserves eminently. He is physically Tough and cheerful. Is a fresh entrant with less than 2 years of Service and yet he displayed capability and confidence.

The Prime Minister whom I knew. The first posting of my Indian Army Medical Corps Career took me to the Special Frontier Force, the Directorate General of Security Establishment No. 22 that operates under the directives issued by the Prime Minister’s Cabinet Secretariat. Indira Gandhi’s Operation Eagle delivered the first blow during 1971 and initiated the Liberation of Bangladesh.

Lieutenant General T S Oberoi, the Southern Army Commander during 1983, the former Inspector General of Special Frontier Force is seen in this photo wearing a helmet. The photo was taken during 1982 while he had visited A S C Centre, Bangalore. While he was the Commandant at Headquarters Establishment No. 22 C/O 56 APO he had served as the Field Commander of Operation Eagle in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. He would have executed Operation Blue Star with due care and concern to save the lives of his men and also the civilians.

The Flag of Indian Army Medical Corps. AMC must put this memorable Battlefield Medical Evacuation March in 1971 in its History Books to inspire other AMC Medical Officers to train and acquire the professional skills of Medical Assistant and Ambulance Assistant to give better service to the battle wounded in any future War.

The Flag of Indian Army Medical Corps.Operation Eagle 1971 in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. AMC must put this memorable Battlefield Medical Evacuation March in 1971 in its History Books to inspire other AMC Medical Officers to train and acquire the professional skills of Medical Assistant and Ambulance Assistant to give better service to the battle wounded in any future War.

Sangram Medal 1971. Evidence for my participation in the Indo-Pak War of 1971.

Sangram Medal 1971. Evidence for my participation in Operation Eagle 1971 in the Chittagong Hill Tracts during the Indo-Pak War of 1971.

Poorvi Star 1971. It is evidence of my participation in the Indo-Pak War of 1971.

Poorvi Star 1971. It is evidence of my participation in Operation Eagle 1971 in the Chittagong Hill Tracts during Indo-Pak War of 1971.

I was trained in the use of a 9 mm SMG or Sten Gun. I had chosen to march into enemy territory without my personal weapon to defend myself. I did not throw away my weapon and I did not surrender my weapon to the enemy which are crimes under law. War is a team effort. My contribution to this team effort is not based upon firing bullets from my Sten Gun. I had totally discarded any concerns about my personal safety and worked for the success of the team. I have shown Courage by not carrying this Sten Gun and in following my team like a shadow and confronting the enemy as a TEAM.

I was trained in the use of a 9 mm SMG or Sten Gun. During Operation Eagle in the Chittagong Hill tracts, I had chosen to march into enemy territory without my personal weapon to defend myself. I did not throw away my weapon and I did not surrender my weapon to the enemy which are crimes under law. War is a team effort. My contribution to this team effort is not based upon firing bullets from my Sten Gun. I had totally discarded any concerns about my personal safety and worked for the success of the team. I have shown Courage by not carrying this Sten Gun and in following my team like a shadow and confronting the enemy as a TEAM.

American made High-Explosive Fragmentation Mark II Hand Grenade. Pakistan's Army uses this type of hand grenades. During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, I had collected two such hand grenades at the enemy post that we had captured. I had removed the Detonator to safely handle the grenade. I took them home and presented them to my father as a piece of evidence to support my claim that I had actually participated in the War. My father was afraid to keep my evidence. The Grenades were buried in Alcott Gardens, Rajahmundry.

American made High-Explosive Fragmentation Mark II Hand Grenade.OPERATION EAGLE 1971- Pakistan’s Army uses this type of hand grenades. During Operation Eagle, the India-Pakistan War of 1971, I had collected two such hand grenades at the enemy post that we had captured. I had removed the Detonator to safely handle the grenade. I took them home and presented them to my father as a piece of evidence to support my claim that I had actually participated in the War. My father was afraid to keep my evidence. The Grenades were buried in Alcot Gardens, Rajahmundry.

Made in China High-Explosive Fragmentation Hand Grenade. Chinese Army uses such type of hand grenades. Pakistan receives arms and ammunition from Communist China apart from the massive military aid it receives from the United States of America. In the Indo-Pak War of 1971, we had captured enemy posts and had recovered arms and ammunition that were made in China. Since I had participated in the War, I know the weapons, ammunition, and equipment used and their source.

Made in China High-Explosive Fragmentation Hand Grenade found during Operation Eagle 1971. Chinese Army uses such type of hand grenades. Pakistan receives arms and ammunition from Communist China apart from the massive military aid it receives from the United States of America. In the Indo-Pak War of 1971, we had captured enemy posts and had recovered arms and ammunition that were made in China. Since I had participated in the War, I know the weapons, ammunition, and equipment used and their source.

Shrimati. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the President of India

Shrimati. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the President of India. The President’s Secretariat did not act upon my grievance/petition about the award of gallantry awards -Operation Eagle 1971. It had simply forwarded my grievance to the wrong Department. My grievance should have been reviewed by the Cabinet Secretariat who had my Service Records that pertain to my participation in the Indo-Pak War of 1971.

The President’s Secretariat had established a Help line to receive requests and grievances from the public. I had requested the President of India to review the decision made by the Ministry of Defence in 1971 and had complained that the act of rejecting the Citation to award VIR CHAKRA in recognition of my courageous performance inside enemy territory, was ‘unfair’ and ‘unjust’. The President’s Secretariat had registered my grievance and had issued the following Grievance Registration Number : PRSEC/E/2009/05526.

I had stated that I could not give up my claim for the Gallantry Award and this recognition would benefit other members of Indian Army Medical Corps and would inspire them to distinguish themselves in providing comfort and in boosting up the morale of our fighting men and women of our Armed Forces.

THE STATUS OF GRIEVANCE PETITION TO THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA : AUGUST 31, 2009

On August 31, 2009, The President’s Secretariat had transferred my petition to the Ministry of Defence. For further information in this matter, I was asked to directly discuss with Shri. Anand Misra, Joint Secretary ( Estt&PG ), Room No. 97, South Block, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi. His telephone number is 237 92043. His e-mail address is : jse@nic.in

THE STATUS OF GRIEVANCE PETITION TO THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA : DECEMBER 28, 2009 :

OPERATION EAGLE 1971-Government of India, Ministry of Defence claims that Honours and Awards are conferred within a specific period from the date of the act. For every act, there are two parties involved. I had acted on behalf of Government of India and my action was directed against the Government of Pakistan. At this belated stage, after the lapse of over 32 years, what would be the view of the Government of Pakistan about this act?

On December 28, 2009 I had received a Registered Post Letter dated 2nd/3rd December, 2009 bearing No. 3533/2009/D( Cer ) from Government of India, Ministry of Defence. Shri. A.K. Gupta, Under Secretary ( Ceremonials ), Ministry of Defence signed the letter. The letter is  as under :

Subject :- Grievance petition for declining the gallantry award of Vir Chakra for his acts performed as Medical Officer in Military Operations in Chittagong Hill Tracts during the Indo-Pak War of 1971 – regarding.

“I am directed to refer to your E-Mail dated 25.8.2009 received through Centralized Public Grievances Redressal and Monitoring System, on the above subject and to say that the case has been examined in consultation with Army HQ. Army HQ have intimated that Honours and Awards are conferred within a specific period from the date of the act. As the incident mentioned by you is more than 32 years old, the same cannot be considered for any award at this belated stage.”

Indian Army HQ gave me the same response 32 years ago. The ‘Citation’ which had recommended this gallantry award of ‘Vir Chakra’ had never reached them on the stipulated date. Two infantry Officers of my Unit were awarded ’Vir Chakra’ for the same incident in which I had participated. As a Medical Officer, I know the technique described as “EXHUMATION”. The word ‘exhume’ means to dig out of the earth or disinter and the process helps to bring something hidden to ‘light’. The ‘truth’ of this over 32 years old incident is buried in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. I know the exact place where the ‘truth’ is buried. I may have to dig out of the earth and show this truth and let the truth speak for itself.

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA – GIVE ME PERMISSION TO NARRATE THIS OVER 32 YEAR OLD INCIDENT :

I am a Doctor of Medicine who is duly trained in the Art of Writing Case Histories. While narrating an incident and recording Case History, there are five fundamental “W”s that should be answered. The five “W”s are :

1.WHAT ? : A description of events that narrate the incident.

2. WHEN ? : The time frame during which the incident played out.

3. WHERE ? : The physical site where the incident took place.

4. WHO ? : The identities of the parties involved in the incident.

5. WHY ? : The underlying reasons that shaped this incident.

I had asked Shri. Anand Misra, Joint Secretary, Government of India, Ministry of Defence to give me permission to narrate this incident.

MY PRESIDENTIAL CONNECTIONS :

The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces. The Commissioned Officers are appointed by the President and they are vested with authority. Since Commissioned Officers serve at the pleasure of the President, I just ventured to explore some of my connections with the Presidents of India.

This Grievance Registration Number of  PRSEC/E/2009/05526 has now established a formal connection between me and Shrimati. Pratibha Devisingh Patil who is the President of India since 25 July, 2007. I had connections with four distinguished people who had the honour of serving as the President of India in the past. I am delighted to share that information about my Presidential Connections.

Dr.Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888 -1975)

Dr.Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888 -1975). I am related to this President of India on my maternal side.

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was the President of India from May 1962 to May 1967. My maternal grandfather’s brother had married Dr. Radhakrishnan’s daughter. My maternal grandfather, Dr. Kasturi. Narayana Murthy, M.D was the Professor of Medicine at Madras Medical College and had lived in Mylapore, Madras. His younger brother, Shri Kasturi. Seshagiri Rao, an attorney, had also lived in Mylapore. I used to often visit him and spend my summer time reading a huge collection of story books that they had. His wife, my maternal grandmother, Smt. Rukmini had introduced me to Dr. Radhakrishnan who had his own residence in Mylapore, Madras. I was a kid and he knew my mother Smt. Annapurna who was known in the family circles as Ammaji and we had a very pleasant conversation about routine family matters. 

Dr Zakir Hussain (1897 - 1969 )

Dr Zakir Hussain (1897 – 1969 ). I met this President of India in Rashtrapati Bhavan during 1967.

Dr. Zakir Hussain was the President of India from May 1967 to May 1969. I had the opportunity to meet him in person at the Rashtrapati Bhavan during June 1967. I was a student at Kurnool Medical College and I had represented the State of Andhra Pradesh in a National Student Seminar on National Integration at New Delhi. He was full of grace and charms you with his sweet and persuasive talk. The Student Delegates had discussed with him a variety of subjects that are important for promoting National Unity.

  

Shri. Varahagiri Venkata Giri ( 1894 - 1980 )

Shri. Varahagiri Venkata Giri ( 1894 – 1980 ). I knew this President of India from the days he had served in the Madras State.

Shri. V. V. Giri was the President of India from August 1969 to August 1974 and was the acting President from May 1969 to July 1969.I have known Shri V. V .Giri while I was a kid and during the time I had spent at Mylapore, Madras with my maternal grandfather, Dr. Kasturi. Narayana Murthy, M.D. My grandfather had a very good relationship with Shri. Giri and used to visit him often while he was in Madras. I was granted Short Service Commission in the Indian Army Medical Corps. The Presidential Appointment granting me the rank of Lieutenant in the Regular Army from the 26th day of July 1970 was signed by President V. V. Giri on 20th day of September 1971( Registered No. M 3692 ).

Dr. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy  ( 1913 - 1996 )

Dr. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy ( 1913 – 1996 ). This President of India had signed the Presidential Commission Document that granted me Permanent Regular Commission in the Indian Army Medical Corps.

Dr. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was India’s President from July 1977 to July 1982. My maternal grandfather, Dr. Kasturi. Narayana Murthy, M.D. knew Neelam Sanjiva Reddy when he was a young freedom fighter. In my blog post titled ‘Defining Indian Identity – The Language Factor’ published during August 2007, I had mentioned that Dr. K. N. Murthy, M.D. was present on the Dais along with Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu garu, and Neelam Sanjiva Reddy when the State of Andhra Rashtra came into existence on October 01, 1953 in Kurnool while Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had attended the inaugural function. As a student at Government Giriraj Arts College, Nizamabad, Andhra pradesh I had attended a few public meetings addressed by Neelam Sanjiva Reddy. He was an impressive and eloquent speaker. I was granted Direct Permanent Commission in the Indian Army Medical Corps during March 1973. My Presidential Appointment granting me the rank of Captain in the regular Army from the 7th day of March 1973 was signed by President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy on 18th day of October, 1979( Registered No. M-4439).

THE STATUS OF MY PETITION/GRIEVANCE AT THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE:

AWARD OF GALLANTRY AWARD-INDIA-PAKISTAN WAR OF 1971: My Petition/Grievance Registration Number: MODEF/E/2011/00761 Dated 24 September 2011 has been forwarded to Mr. Upamanyu Chatterjee, IAS, Chief Administrative Officer, Joint Secretary Defence Headquarters Training Institute, Ministry of Defence, E-Block, Tutu Road, DHQ Zone, New Delhi – 110 011 on 17 July 2012. His contact information: Phone Number : 23018201. I request all of my readers to contact this Joint Secretary and give support to my Petition/Grievance.

              

THE HIGHER FORCE OF KRUPA :

I am seeking this Gallantry Award of ‘VIR CHAKRA’ to seek recognition and acknowledgment of a Higher Force known in Sanskrit language as ‘KRUPA’. I had known very distinguished people in my life. Shri.V.V. Giri was the President of India while I was with the ‘Fifth Army’ in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. While I was a kid, I had travelled to Madras from Rajahmundry by the famous Howrah-Madras Mail. I was traveling alone without my other brothers. My mother had come to the railway station in Rajahmundry to see me off. She was very concerned about my safety during that train journey. She had discovered the daughter of Shri. V. V. Giri who was in the train and was traveling to Madras. My mother had handed over me to the care of Shri.V.V. Giri’s daughter who had promised my mother that she would keep me safe during my train journey. My mother was concerned about my safety. Her concern was answered and she found Shri.V.V. Giri’s daughter. We do not have the ability to bestow ’KRUPA’. We could only respond to its Energy and act in obedience to its Power. During the course of Fifth Army’s Operation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, I did not ask President V. V. Giri to keep me safe and I had never tried to seek a posting at a ‘peace establishment’ and never made an attempt to avoid my posting to Units deployed in Field. During the military operations in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, I had personally witnessed the uplifting Power of a Higher Force. The Force of Krupa had enabled me to perform a remarkable and memorable journey through enemy territory. It was not my physical ability or intelligence that had protected me and defended me. I took care of the battle wounded soldiers by acting obediently and allowing myself to be fully controlled by the Power of Krupa. It is the Power that can change human behavior and actions. Krupa is the Energy that can transform human life. Krupa is the Force that can change the direction of our physical movement upon planet Earth. Krupa empowers human mind and propels our life’s journey in a new direction. Human existence is the manifestation of the Force of Krupa. We exist simply because of that Mercy, Compassion, and Grace of that Ultimate Reality which bestows Krupa. I want people to recognize this External Force and seek the benefits of its Power and Energy to defend their own existence.

LORD MADHAVA, the Consort of MADHAVI( which also means Sweet, Honey, Sugar, and Sweet Wine) bestows KRUPA and it imparts the taste of Sweetness known as MADHURYA.

LORD MADHAVA, the Consort of MADHAVI( which also means Sweet, Honey, Sugar, and Sweet Wine) bestows KRUPA and it imparts the taste of Sweetness known as MADHURYA. I had experienced this sensation of Sweetness or Madhurya during the military operations of Indo-Pak War of 1971.

Muukam karoti vachaalam, panghum langha ya tey girim,             

Yat Krupaa ta Maham, Vandey Paramaananda Maadhavam.

Dr. R. R. Narasimham/R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Service Number: MS-8466, Rank: LIEUTENANT/CAPTAIN, Branch: Army Medical Corps/Short Service Regular Commission. 

Designation:Medical Officer, Unit: South Column, Operation Eagle(1971)

Headquarters Establishment No. 22  C/O 56 A.P.O., Organization: Special Frontier Force.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Spirits-of-Special-Frontier-Force/362056613878227

Biographical Information :

1. Place of Birth : MYLAPORE, Madras City, Chenna Patnam, Chennai, Madras State, Tamil Nadu, India. Born Hindu( Brahmin-Niyogi-Smartha), Telugu-Speaking.

2. Date and Place of Marriage : 29 January, 1973. Congregational Town Church, Cuddapah, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India.

http://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2010/04/05/the-medical-plan-for-fifth-army-the-experience-of-madhurya-in-chittagong-hill-tracts/