NEW DELHI: Colonel Panjab Singh, a hero of the Battle of Poonch during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, was cremated with full military honours under pandemic protocols after he passed away Sunday at Command Hospital Chandimandir Monday.The retired officer, who was awarded the Vir Chakra, the third highest war-time gallantry award, died of post-Covid complications. He had recovered from the infection earlier.Only last week, on 21 May, his elder son Anil Kumar had succumbed to Covid.He was the Col of 6-sikh unit of infantry and had displayed gallantry, determination and leadership of a high order during the war. Operation: 1971 Cactus Lily against Pakistan.As per the citation presented at time of giving him the Veer chakra it was mentioned that Major Panjab Singh was commanding a company deployed in the Western Sector.On 3 December 1971, the company was attacked by two enemy companies supported by artillery and mortar fire, Major Panjab Singh, with complete disregard for his safety, moved from trench to trench and ensured that all weapons under his command engaged the assaulting force effectively. By his inspiring leadership, cool courage and determination, the enemy assault was beaten back. Three more attempts by the enemy to assault the position were similarly foiled in the next two days.Though he was the native of Sakandar village of Hamirpur district, yet he was residing at Housing board colony in his own constructed house.Former HP Chief Minister and senior BJP leader, Pk Dhumal has expressed his shock over the sad demise of the army veteran. He has also sent condolences to the bereaved family.
