Thoubal SSP Rakesh Balwal honoured with Gallantry Medal
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, January 25 2025: Thoubal district Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rakesh Balwal has been awarded the prestigious Medal for Gallantry on the eve of Republic Day 2025 for his exceptional role in averting a potential terror attack on the Amarnath Yatra in June 2022.Rakesh Balwal, who was serving as the Senior Superintendent of Police in Srinagar at the time, played a pivotal role in a high-stakes operation that neutralised two hardcore terrorists, including a Pakistani national, in Bemina on the outskirts of Srinagar.

According to a PTI report, the operation, which was conducted under the supervision of then-Kashmir Zone Inspector General of Police Vijay Kumar, came after intelligence inputs revealed plans for a.terror attack on the annual pilgrimage.

Thoubal SSP Rakesh Balwal honoured with Gallantry Medal

On June 14, 2022, a small police team led by Balwal intercepted a suspicious vehicle, leading to a swift encounter that eliminated the threat without any assistance from the Army, the Central Reserve Police Force, or other intelligence agencies.

Balwal's leadership and bravery during the operation earned him and six other police personnel the gallantry medal, a recognition awarded for rare acts of conspicuous gallantry in preventing crime or saving lives and property.

His exceptional service in counter-terrorism operations has been a hallmark of his career, contributing significantly to maintaining peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.

Alongside Rakesh Balwal, six other officers were honoured with the Medal for Gallantry for their roles in the Bemina operation under the supervision of former Kashmir Zone IGP Vijay Kumar, who was also among the award recipients.

Humayun Bhat, a DSP who laid down his life during an encounter in Kokernag in September 2023, was posthumously recognised for his bravery.

In addition, senior officers Anand Jain and Nitish Kumar were awarded the President's Medal for Distinguished Service, while 10 other police personnel received the Medal for Meritorious Service.

Another notable, recipient was selection-grade fireman Satish Kumar Raina, who was posthumously awarded the Medal for Gallantry for his ultimate sacrifice during a firefighting operation in Jammu's Prem Nagar area in January 2023.Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated the awardees, commending their commitment to duty and bravery.