Lt Col Jagannath Raoji Chitnis, Ashok Chakra (P), was an Indian Army Officer in 1/3 Gorkha Rifles who made the supreme sacrifice on this day 14 June in 1956, in Nagaland engaging rebels. The memory of gallant India brave remains etched forever.

 

Born on 20th August 1918 in Satara, Maharashtra, Lt Col Chitnis got commissioned into the Third Battalion of the Gorkha Rifles on 12 April 1942. After passing out from OTS Bangalore, Lt Col Itnis served with his unit in different operational areas and evolved into an experienced and battle - hardened soldier.

 

By 1956, Lt Col Chitnis had put in about 14 years of service and had been promoted to the rank of Lt Col. In 1956, he had become Commanding Officer of 1/3 Gorkha Rifles and was serving in the north eastern border of the country.

 

 

On 14 Jun 1956, while proceeding in a convoy, they were attacked by 100 Naga rebels. These hostiles, were heavily armed with light machine guns, sten guns and rifles.

 

In the attack, Lt Col Chitnis and four of his men were wounded. He halted the convoy short of the hostile bunkers and ordered a bayonet charge on the bunkers. He led the assault keeping himself in the forefront. Though weakened by the leg injury, Lt Col Chitnis made a frontal assault on the hostile bunker. He was grievously wounded and fell a few meters short of the post.

 

Despite grave injuries, he encouraged his men to carry on the battle against the hostiles. Lt Col Chitnis was martyred but his words inspired his men who fought valiantly and cleared the position of the hostiles and killed 20 rebels.

 

Lt Col Chitnis not only saved his men from the jaws of death but also inflicted heavy losses on the hostiles. He continued to lead his men till the last breath.

 

Lt Col Jagannath Raoji Chitnis, on account of his extraordinary courage, exemplary leadership and unparalleled devotion to duty was awarded India’s highest gallantry peacetime award, "Ashok Chakra”.