Pics: Justin D'Silva

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Oct 21: "The sacrifices of martyrs have played a crucial role in preserving the integrity and sovereignty of our nation," said Udupi District sessions judge, K S Gangannavar. He was speaking on Monday at the Police Martyr's Day celebrations organized by the Udupi district police at the police parade ground. Judge Gangannavar paid homage by offering a floral tribute to the Martyrs' Memorial.

Speaking on the occasion, he emphasized that a nation is not just a geographical entity but a system that encompasses all forms of life, including humans, animals, and plants. Remembering the sacrifices made by the martyrs who laid down their lives for the country’s protection, he said that we must uphold peace and order as symbols of their sacrifice. He urged that every citizen should perform their duty towards nation-building with body, speech, and mind.

Udupi district superintendent of police, Dr Arun K, in his address, recalled the origins of Police Martyrs' Day, which has been observed since October 21, 1959, when CRPF soldiers lost their lives in a gun battle between Indian and Chinese troops near Ladakh. He further stated that over the past year, a total of 216 police officers and personnel across the country have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, including five from Karnataka.

The event was attended by deputy commissioner Dr K Vidya Kumari, coastal security police superintendent Mithun H N, additional superintendent of police S T Siddalingappa, P A Hegde, and several other dignitaries.