Dinesh, my thanks for posting this. You have recounted one small aspect of what Gen Sagat Singh did. He was one of the main architects of the 71 victory - against orders again ! http://www.rediff.com/news/special/gene ... 161208.htmdinesh_kimar wrote:On This day, fifty years ago, the GOC of 17 Mountain Division, Lt. Gen. Sagat Singh (then a Major General) disobeyed orders and refused to vacate the strategic Nathu La pass in Sikkim, as demanded by the Chinese......and agreed to by certain Indian "higher ups".
At the time, India was not a nuclear power (though China was !), and had recently suffered a humiliating defeat in Chinese hands.More importantly, Gen. Sagat Singh did not have support from his Corps Commander. Undeterred, he carefully positioned his Infantry and artillery assets, ensured proper communication of his various field units (VK's excellent Blog),briefed and mobilized the men under his command...............and hit the Chinese!!!
The Chinese soon joined in an ugly battle.However in the face of the well prepared and brave Indian Soldiers of 17th Mountain Division (Jats, Rajputs and Gurkhas) , the Chinese suffered about 300 causalities and eventually called a cease fire. They realized that the Indian Army was no push over.
For his tenacity, stubbornness, and for doing the right thing for his country though his bosses did not support him, a thousand pranams from me to the great soul, one of India's boldest and most innovative soldiers', Lt. Gen. Sagat Singh.
He is one of India's legendary generals including PS Bhagat, Harbaksh Singh, Hanut Singh who not only scripted brilliant victories but were men of such high moral fibre and total commitment that even today they are revered. None of them got their due - Bhagat due to the government and the other two due to jealous superiors. Hanut sir and Sagat sir were our finest battlefield commanders bar none. Our country was the looser. Do read up on them and post links on them on this thread.
Quiz - in which operation did Gen Sagat Singh lead a brigade and again in a lightning strike - his trademark.