The Battle of Gangasagar |गंगासागर का युद्ध

 

Introduction:- The Battle of Gangasagar was one of the most fiercely fought battles in then East Pakistan during India - Pakistan War of 1971. 14 GUARDS was given the task of capturing heavily fortified Pakistani military position in village Gangasagar. With meticulous planning, Indian troops commenced their offensive at 0200 hrs on 03 December 1971 and continued their advance towards the objective by clearing bunker after bunker against intense and close enemy shelling. Very close to the objective, Pakistani soldiers opened Medium Machine Gun fire from a two storey fortified building inflicting heavy casualties on Indian troops. This, however, did not deter the Indian soldiers who displayed unparalleled courage and determination during the operation and finally secured the objective after a pitched battle of two days. An impossible mission was accomplished and bravery of Indian soldiers was at its best display that turned the battle in their favour.

  The town of Gangasagar lies approximately 6 kilometers south of Akhaura in the Brahmanbaria District of Bangladesh.

 Capturing Gangasagar was crucial for the Indian IV Corps' advancement towards Akhaura and the isolation of the Pakistani 14th Infantry Division.

Opposing Forces:-

India:- 14 Guards Battalion, led by Colonel Desmond A. Shortt.

Pakistan:- Well-fortified positions held by Pakistani troops.

Course of the Battle:

 On December 3rd, at 2:00 AM, Indian troops launched their offensive, facing intense shelling and heavy small-arms fire as they advanced towards the heavily fortified Pakistani positions.

 The battle raged throughout the day, with Indian soldiers clearing bunkers and encountering stiff resistance from the Pakistani troops.

 On December 4th, after fierce hand-to-hand combat, the Indian forces finally captured Gangasagar, securing a strategic victory.

Key Factors in the Indian Victory:

Meticulous planning:- The Indian troops had carefully planned their attack, utilizing the cover of darkness to launch their offensive.

Determined courage: Despite facing heavy casualties, the Indian soldiers displayed unwavering courage and determination throughout the battle.

Effective leadership: Colonel Shortt's leadership and tactical acumen played a vital role in securing victory.

Outcome and Significance:- The capture of Gangasagar significantly weakened the Pakistani defenses and paved the way for further Indian advances in East Pakistan.

  The battle showcased the bravery and tactical skills of the Indian Army, boosting morale and contributing to the eventual Indian victory in the war.

   The Battle of Gangasagar also saw the emergence of heroes like Lance Naik Albert Ekka, who posthumously received the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor, for his extraordinary courage and selflessness in the face of the enemy.

The Battle of Gangasagar remains an important reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the Indo-Pakistani War and serves as a testament to their courage and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.