Anantnag (Kashmir). “Papa, just come once, then go on the mission.” Seven-year-old Kabir recently sent this voice message to his father Colonel Manpreet Singh’s number. The innocent child is unaware of the harsh reality that his father will never return. He sends many such messages to his father’s number in a whisper to avoid his mother’s eyes. He also tries to make video calls many times.
Colonel Singh’s last heroic mission was on September 13 last year, when he along with other soldiers had a fierce encounter with terrorists in the forests around Gadul village. Despite their courage, Colonel Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat and Sepoy Pradeep Singh made the supreme sacrifice. This sacrifice has forever created a void in the hearts of those who knew and admired them (the brave sons).
Colonel Singh, the commanding officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) unit, is remembered as a hero of the most terror-affected areas of Larkipora, Jaldura and Kokernag in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Many locals remember him as a symbol of bravery, leadership and selfless sacrifice in these areas, which primarily form the area of responsibility of 19 RR or ‘AOR’ in army parlance. His legacy lives on in the hearts of the people.
Colonel Singh’s absence is weighing heavy on his family members, especially his wife Jagmeet. Jagmeet remembers well the time when he (Colonel Singh) planted two Chinar trees and lovingly named them after his children – Kabir and Vani. “He said we will come back after 10 years to see these trees, but now…” Jagmeet said, his soft voice expressing the uncertainty and sadness that has gripped the family.
Jagmeet told PTI over phone from Mohali in Punjab that Col Singh was extremely passionate about improving the lives of people in Kashmir and also spoke about the difficulties he faced in convincing his children that he (Singh) would not return. “Often Man (Col Manpreet) would get calls in the dark of the night and he would immediately ensure that help was provided to the victims,” he said. This help could be for anything, be it resolving personal disputes or getting them admitted to a hospital, he said.
She said her martyred husband was invited by the locals on occasions like weddings, childbirth and Eid. “It was like a big family,” Jagmeet said. Recalling their last conversation of just 32 seconds, Jagmeet said, “I am in operation, those were his last words, after that I never spoke to him again.” Colonel Singh’s dedication to the community extended far beyond his military duties.
He played a key role in rehabilitation efforts, especially in bringing back the lives of those battling drug addiction. Colonel Singh’s contribution to empowering women and promoting community spirit through sports and education is fondly remembered by those who knew him.
Anantnag’s well-known women cricketer Rubaiya Saeed recalled the impact of Colonel Singh on the community. “He believed that sports had an important role in building society…there were many drug addicts whom he sent for rehabilitation,” she said. Saeed said Colonel Singh’s focus on making women self-reliant and financially independent reflected his commitment to building a better society through sports and education.
Tags: Jammu Kashmir, terrorist attack
FIRST PUBLISHED : June 16, 2024, 20:52 IST