Jamshedpur: Martyr Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi honored with ‘Virgati Samman’

Jamshedpur: A solemn and emotional ceremony was held at Bistupur Gurudwara Sahib on Tuesday to honour Martyr Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi, who was martyred in an IED blast in Jammu & Kashmir. The Central Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (CGPC) bestowed the “Virgati Samman” upon the fallen hero, with his grieving yet proud parents, Sardar Ajinder Singh Bakshi and Bibi Harjeet Kaur, receiving the honour.

The event was marked by a blend of sorrow and pride, as Captain Bakshi’s mother, Harjeet Kaur, delivered a heartfelt speech that left everyone emotional. With tear-filled eyes yet a proud heart, she expressed her immense pride in her son’s supreme sacrifice. She stated, “I am proud of my son’s martyrdom. If I had more sons, I would have sacrificed them too for the country.”

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Sardar Inderjit Singh, General Secretary of Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib, Patna; CGPC President Sardar Bhagwan Singh; CGPC Chairman Sardar Shailendra Singh; Sakchi Gurudwara President Sardar Nishan Singh; Jharkhand Education Minister Ramdas Soren; and Jugsalai MLA Mangal Kalindi. These leaders jointly handed over the “Virgati Samman” to the martyr’s parents and garlanded them in honor of their son’s sacrifice.

Emotional Tributes and Salutes

The atmosphere at the Darbar Sahib became profoundly emotional when Bibi Harjeet Kaur began speaking. The pain of a mother who had lost her son blended with the pride of a woman who had raised a true patriot. Her words resonated deeply with the attendees, many of whom were moved to tears.

Earlier in the ceremony, a fifty-member delegation from the Ex-Serviceman Council, Jamshedpur, led by Sushil Singh, paid their respects to the martyr’s parents. Additionally, Jaswant Singh Jasso’s twenty-one-member Gatka team honored Captain Bakshi with a ceremonial sword salute and showered flowers as a tribute.

Martyr’s Legacy Recognized

Speaking at the event, CGPC President Bhagwan Singh lauded Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi for following the path shown by the Gurus. He emphasized that Bakshi not only fulfilled his duty to the nation but also brought immense pride to the Sikh community. “Millions of salutes to the martyrs,” he said.

CGPC Chairman Sardar Shailendra Singh highlighted the longstanding history of Sikh sacrifices for India’s freedom and sovereignty. “Many Sikhs have laid down their lives for the country’s independence. Today, Captain Karamjit Singh has added to that legacy, making us all proud,” he remarked.

Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Patna’s General Secretary Sardar Inderjit Singh, along with Ramdas Soren and Mangal Kalindi, also shared their thoughts, praising the courage and dedication of the martyr.

A Life Sacrificed for the Nation

Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi, a resident of Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, sustained fatal injuries in an IED blast near Akhnoor sector in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his wounds during treatment. His sacrifice stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of India’s soldiers to safeguard the nation.

Widespread Participation in Tribute

The ceremony saw an overwhelming response, with members from various Sikh organizations, gurdwara management committees, and youth groups in attendance. Among those present were:

• Patna Sahib Committee Representatives: Inderjit Singh
• Central Gurudwara Committee Officials: Bhagwan Singh, Sardar Shailendra Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Nishan Singh
• Dignitaries & Social Leaders: Chanchal Singh, Amarjit Singh, Gurcharan Singh Billa, Gurnam Singh Bedi, Parwinder Singh Sohal, Sukhdev Singh, Raju Singh, Sarabjit Singh Grewal, and many others
• Women’s Associations: Central Women Satsang Sabha, represented by President Ravinder Kaur, Chairman Kamaljit Kaur, Patron Dalbir Kaur, Vice President Palwinder Kaur, General Secretary Sukhwant Kaur, and Paramjit Kaur
• Religious and Youth Groups: Members of the Sikh Youth Sabha and the Dharm Prachar Committee of Akali Dal

Hundreds gathered to pay their respects, acknowledging the immense sacrifice of Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi and reaffirming their commitment to honoring the valor of India’s martyrs.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by CGPC General Secretary Amarjit Singh, while CGPC Chairman Sardar Shailendra Singh conducted the proceedings.

The legacy of Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi will continue to inspire generations, reminding the nation of the unwavering bravery and dedication of its soldiers.