Every year on October 21, India observes Police Smriti Diwas, also known as Police Commemoration Day, to pay heartfelt tribute to the police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty. The day is a solemn reminder of the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of those who protect the nation’s internal security, often at the cost of their own lives.
While the day is marked by parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and commemorative events across the country, few know the tragic and heroic story behind the date — why October 21 was chosen to commemorate police personnel.
History of Police Smriti Diwas
The origin of Police Smriti Diwas dates back to October 21, 1959, a date etched in the memory of the Indian Police Forces as one of courage and tragedy.
The 1959 Hot Springs Incident
On this day, a patrol party of 20 Indian police personnel was ambushed by Chinese troops in Hot Springs, located in the Ladakh region of what was then the North Eastern Frontier (now part of eastern Ladakh).
- The police team, from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), was assigned to patrol the border region to monitor and protect Indian territory.
- The team came under sudden and heavy fire from Chinese soldiers near Hot Springs in Aksai Chin.
- Ten Indian policemen were martyred in the encounter. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, they fought valiantly, defending the nation’s frontier until the last breath.
This tragic event occurred three years before the Sino-Indian War of 1962, making these policemen among the first martyrs in the India-China border conflict.
Why 21 October Was Chosen as Police Commemoration Day
The 21st of October was chosen to commemorate the Hot Springs sacrifice — a defining moment in India’s policing history.
In 1960, a year after the incident, the Annual Conference of Inspectors General of Police of States and Union Territories decided to observe October 21 every year as Police Commemoration Day.
The decision symbolized a nationwide acknowledgment of the bravery of the police personnel who laid down their lives defending the integrity and sovereignty of the nation — even before the armed forces were formally deployed in the region.
Since then, the day has been observed annually across India to pay homage to all police martyrs who have died in the line of duty — whether in border defense, counter-terrorism operations, maintaining law and order, or rescuing citizens in disasters.
Significance of Police Smriti Diwas
Police Smriti Diwas is not merely a ceremonial event; it is a solemn expression of gratitude and national respect toward those who ensure internal security, peace, and order across the country.
1. Honouring the Martyrs
The day serves to remember and honour the police personnel who sacrificed their lives while performing their duties. A two-minute silence is observed at 11:00 a.m. in all police establishments across India.
2. National-Level Commemoration
Since 2012, the National Police Memorial at Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, has been the main venue for the central ceremony. The memorial includes:
- A 30-foot-tall black granite monolith, representing the strength and resilience of police personnel.
- An engraved list of more than 36,000 martyrs who have laid down their lives since independence.
- A museum showcasing the history, sacrifices, and evolution of policing in India.
3. Reaffirming Commitment
Police Smriti Diwas reminds serving officers of their duty — to uphold the Constitution, protect citizens, and preserve the unity and integrity of the nation, no matter the challenges.
4. Acknowledging Families of the Fallen
Many state governments and police departments hold special functions where the families of martyrs are felicitated, recognizing their immense personal loss and contribution to the nation’s safety.
Police Smriti Diwas 2025: Observance and Events
In 2025, Police Smriti Diwas will once again be marked by a wreath-laying ceremony at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi. Senior dignitaries, including the Union Home Minister, the Director General of Police (DGP), and senior CRPF officials, are expected to attend the ceremony.
Across India, all police units — from state forces to central paramilitary organizations — will hold commemorative parades and observe moments of silence to honor the fallen heroes.
Many schools, colleges, and civic organizations also conduct awareness programs to educate citizens about the role and sacrifices of the police in ensuring the country’s internal security.
Remembering the Heroes of Hot Springs
The ten CRPF men who sacrificed their lives on October 21, 1959, are remembered with great respect. Their names are immortalized in the annals of Indian police history, representing the undying spirit of service and courage.
Their valor paved the way for India’s realization of the challenges along its northern borders and the importance of disciplined, well-equipped policing even in extreme terrains like Ladakh.
Message of Police Smriti Diwas
Police Smriti Diwas carries a powerful message — that the uniform is not just a symbol of authority, but of sacrifice, dedication, and selfless service.
It reminds citizens of the unseen dangers that police officers face daily, and the sacrifices they make to ensure the safety of millions.
The day urges everyone to recognize that behind every uniform is a human being who takes an oath to protect others, even at the cost of their own life.
Police Smriti Diwas, observed every year on October 21, stands as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of India’s police forces. The date commemorates the brave CRPF personnel who laid down their lives at Hot Springs, Ladakh, in 1959 — a day that forever redefined the meaning of duty and devotion in the police service.
As the nation bows in respect, we are reminded that peace and security come at a price — one that countless police personnel continue to pay silently, with unwavering commitment and courage.
Let us salute the spirit of those who serve and protect, even when the odds are against them.
Jai Hind.
