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Introduction:- Battle of Rezangla was a pitched battle fought during India-China border conflict of 1962 at one of the highest mountainous battle fields at 18000 ft. Occupation of the mountain pass Rezangla in J&K's Ladakh region by Chinese forces would have cut off the only road link of Chushul garrison to Leh. On 18 Nov 1962, Chinese troops launched a silent attack over Indian defences at Rezangla from two directions. As Indian troops were very vigilant, they inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers. Chinese forces launched multiple attacks and cut off all communication lines of Indian troops. Inspite of being completely isolated and outnumbered, soldiers of 13 KUMAON under the leadership of the company commander fought till last man last round. Troops of Indian Army displayed unparalleled courage and determination during the operation.
Opposing Forces:-
India:- 120 soldiers of Charlie Company, 13th Kumaon Regiment, led by Major Shaitan Singh.
China:- Over 1,000 soldiers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
Course of the Battle:-The Chinese launched a surprise attack on the Indian outpost at Rezang La early in the morning. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the Indian soldiers fought valiantly, inflicting heavy casualties on the attackers. Major Shaitan Singh led the defense from the front, inspiring his men to fight till their last breath.
The Indians held their ground for several hours, repulsing wave after wave of Chinese attacks. However, due to the overwhelming odds and lack of communication and reinforcements, the Indian position eventually fell.
Outcome: of the 120 Indian soldiers, 114 were martyred in the battle. Only six soldiers, including a wounded Major Shaitan Singh, managed to survive. The Chinese sustained significant losses as well, with estimates ranging from hundreds to over 1,000 casualties.
Significance:- The Battle of Rezang La is remembered as a symbol of Indian bravery and sacrifice in the face of adversity.
Major Shaitan Singh was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor, for his exceptional leadership and courage. The battle also highlighted the strategic importance of the Rezang La pass, which remains a disputed territory between India and China.
Legacy:- A war memorial has been erected at Rezang La to honor the fallen soldiers. The story of the battle continues to inspire generations of Indian soldiers and civilians alike.
The Battle of Rezang La serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers in the line of duty and the importance of defending national borders.
Additional Facts:
The battle is often compared to the last stand of the Spartans at Thermopylae, due to the similarities in terms of outnumbered defenders holding their ground against a much larger force.
The extreme weather conditions at Rezang La added to the difficulty of the battle, with soldiers fighting in temperatures below freezing and thin air.
The Battle of Rezang La remains a sensitive topic in both India and China, with different perspectives on the events of the day.
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