In a significant turn of events that has caught the attention of the local community in Bundi, Rajasthan, retired Brigadier Bhupesh Singh Hada, recently coronated as the king of Bundi by the local Rajput community, found himself in legal turmoil following an alleged breach of public peace and unlawful assembly. The incident unfolded on Wednesday morning when Hada, accompanied by his supporters, made an entry into Moti Mahal, located within the historic Taragarh Palace.

The police, acting on a complaint from the trust managing Taragarh Palace and the properties formerly owned by Bundi’s royal family, arrested Hada, his aide Pravindra Singh, and two others for assembling unlawfully at the site.

Uma Sharma, the Additional Superintendent of Police in Bundi, elaborated that the group had entered Moti Mahal and gathered there without permission, prompting police intervention. The officers initially tried to persuade Hada and his group to seek a legal resolution to their grievances against the trust and others involved.

Later the same day, a Bundi court granted bail to all the accused. Following his release, Brigadier Hada addressed the media outside the court premises, where he leveled accusations against Bhawan Jitendra Singh of Alwar.

Brigadier Hada claimed that Singh, a Congress leader, had illegitimately taken control of the trust operating Taragarh Palace and its properties during his (Hada’s) absence due to military service. He insisted that his presence at Taragarh Palace for a public event was lawful and criticized the trust, acting under Singh’s directions, for involving the police.

Bhupesh Singh Hada, who took voluntary retirement from the Indian Army after reaching the rank of Brigadier, has been a prominent figure not only for his military achievements but also within the local community.

He also mentioned that Taragarh Palace, a property belonging to the Bundi royalty, is a heritage site and ought to be utilized for public and religious events.

Also Read: 5 Inspiring Facts about Brigadier Bhupesh Singh Hada

On December 12, 2021, he was declared the 26th ‘king of Bundi’ in a ceremony that was both celebrated and contested within the region. The coronation saw opposition from certain members of the erstwhile royal family of Bundi and Bhanwar Jitendra Singh of Alwar, highlighting deep-seated disputes over the rightful leadership and stewardship of the royal legacy. Jitendra Singh, related to the late Ranjit Singh, the childless ex-royal of Bundi, has been a central figure in the ongoing controversy.

This incident has reignited discussions on the management and ownership of the historic assets of Bundi’s royal past, with the local community closely watching the developments. The legal and social ramifications of Wednesday’s arrest are yet to fully unfold, but they underscore the complex interplay of tradition, law, and modern governance in the stewardship of India’s rich cultural heritage.

In a significant development within the military judicial system, a retired Subedar, previously facing charges under the Official Secrets Act for failing to safeguard sensitive information, has been recommended for acquittal by an Army General Court Martial (GCM). The allegations against the Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) were serious, accusing him of neglecting his duties as Head Clerk by not adequately protecting documents containing sensitive information.

This case, dating back to the period of 2020-21, involved an alleged leak of information by soldiers in an Army formation, raising concerns over the handling and supervision of classified documents. In addition to the charges under the Official Secrets Act, the JCO was also accused under Section 63 of the Army Act, criticized for insufficient supervision over the documents and information, which purportedly led to their unauthorized dissemination.

Despite having retired in October 2021, the Subedar was recalled to face these charges as per the Army Act Section 123, allowing for the continuation of disciplinary action that had been pending against him. The GCM, convened on January 4, 2024, heard testimonies from eight prosecution witnesses during the proceedings.

The defense, led by Advocate Akshit Anand, successfully argued that there was no substantial evidence to indicate the JCO had access to or authority over the leaked documents, nor was there proof of his failure to supervise properly. Anand highlighted the absence of evidence backing the charges, leading to the GCM’s decision to acquit the JCO. “This was a case where the JCO, after retirement, had been charged under Section 5 of the Official Secrets Act as well as Army Act Section 63. There was no evidence to prove the charges against JCO, and the GCM has rightly acquitted the JCO, and justice has prevailed,” Anand stated, reflecting on the trial’s outcome.

The recommendation for acquittal made by the GCM, led by a Colonel, now awaits confirmation from higher authorities within the military. Further trials related to this case are anticipated as investigations into related matters continue, potentially bringing more developments in this complex legal matter.

In a commendable initiative to honor and provide essential medical services to military veterans, the BlackChargerBrigade, in collaboration with AIIMS Bathinda and Mata Sahib Kaur College, hosted a cancer screening and medical camp at Talwandi Sabo.

This event, celebrated under the banner Grateful For Your Service, aimed to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of soldiers to the nation.

The camp witnessed a remarkable turnout, with 430 veterans participating, including three Veer Naris and one Veer Mata, highlighting the community’s respect and recognition for the sacrifices made by military families. The event was not only a medical camp but also a platform for raising awareness on various health issues.

Representatives from different organizations, including Directorate of Indian Army Veterans Bathinda, the Defence Pension Disbursing Office, and Ms. Ramandeep Kaur from the Sainik Welfare Office Bathinda, delivered insightful talks.

These discussions aimed to educate the veterans on health-related topics and provide them with an opportunity to voice their concerns, with a total of 86 veterans registering their grievances during the event.

This initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of those who have served the nation, by not only addressing their health needs but also by acknowledging their service and sacrifices.

The collaboration between various organizations for this cause underscores the community’s collective effort to give back to its veterans, embodying the spirit of gratitude and respect for their service to the nation.

In a ceremonial display of pride and tradition, the Army Postal Service Wing celebrated its significant milestone of 75 years, marked by a grand parade at Kamptee, Nagpur. Major General MK Khan, the Assistant Director-General of the Army Postal Service (APS), took the honor of reviewing the parade, showcasing the dedication and discipline that has been a hallmark of the APS throughout its storied history.

The event was not just a display of military precision and pageantry but also a moment to honor and remember the invaluable contributions of the veterans of the Corps.

These individuals, through their service, have played a crucial role in ensuring the APS flag remains a symbol of commitment and service to the nation.

In recognition of their efforts, Maj Gen MK Khan released a special cover, a philatelic gesture that captures the essence of the celebration and the rich legacy of the APS.

The felicitation of the veterans added a poignant touch to the celebrations, reminding those present of the sacrifices and hard work of those who served before them. This act of acknowledgment serves as a bridge between the past and the present, underlining the continuous thread of dedication that runs through the Corps.

The 75th anniversary of the Army Postal Service Wing stands as a testament to the unwavering service and contributions of its members, both past and present. As the APS looks towards the future, the events at Kamptee, Nagpur, reinforce the Corps’ commitment to excellence and service, honoring a legacy that has been 75 years in the making.

In an enriching expedition blending education with military training, cadets from the prestigious Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun embarked on a visit to Shimla, a city known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The trip, designed as an Educational cum Training excursion, provided the young students with a unique opportunity to delve into the operational facets of the Indian Army and its illustrious history.

The highlight of the visit was the cadets’ experience at the 118 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) of the GRENADIERS, where they were given an exclusive demonstration of the Infantry Weapon & Communication Systems. This session not only offered them a closer look at the military’s hardware but also imparted valuable insights into the technological advancements and strategic communication employed in modern warfare.

Further enriching their visit, the RIMC cadets toured the Army Heritage Museum (AHM) at Annandale. The museum, known for its extensive collection of military artifacts and memorabilia, offered the students a glimpse into the glorious past of the Indian Army. The Experience Hall, in particular, stood out as a testament to the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces, allowing the cadets to absorb the essence of military heritage and valor.

This visit to Shimla represents a crucial aspect of the RIMC curriculum, aiming to instill in students a deep respect for the nation’s defense mechanisms and a profound understanding of the military’s role in national security. Through such trips, RIMC continues to nurture the minds of its cadets, preparing them for future leadership roles in the Indian Armed Forces.

In a meaningful and inspirational engagement, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, GOCinC ARTRAC (General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Army Training Command), along with senior officers of the Army Training Command, hosted a special interaction with cadets and staff from the prestigious Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun.

The event, held in the picturesque surroundings of Shimla, served as a platform to nurture and inspire the budding future military leaders.

The presence of the GOCinC ARTRAC and senior officers of the Army Training Command underscored the importance and significance of the interaction.

It provided a unique opportunity for the visiting cadets and staff from RIMC to engage with esteemed military leaders, gaining valuable insights and wisdom from their rich experiences in the armed forces.

The engagement was not merely a ceremonial affair but a meaningful exchange aimed at fostering inspiration and motivation among the young cadets who aspire to serve the nation in uniform.

Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh and the senior officers shared anecdotes, imparted valuable lessons, and provided guidance to the cadets, instilling in them a sense of purpose and determination to excel in their chosen path.

For the cadets of RIMC, the interaction served as a rare privilege to interact with some of the finest minds in the Indian Army. It offered them a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities that await them in their journey towards becoming future military leaders.

The wisdom shared by the GOCinC ARTRAC and senior officers served as a guiding light, inspiring the cadets to strive for excellence and uphold the core values of honor, courage, and duty.

The scenic backdrop of Shimla added to the ambiance of the interaction, providing a serene and conducive environment for reflection and learning.

Against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, the cadets and staff of RIMC soaked in the wisdom and inspiration imparted by the GOCinC ARTRAC and senior officers, enriching their understanding of the noble profession they aspire to join.

As the interaction concluded, the cadets departed with renewed zeal and determination, carrying with them the invaluable lessons and insights gleaned from the esteemed military leaders.

The engagement served as a reminder of the pivotal role played by mentorship and guidance in shaping the future leaders of the armed forces, ensuring that they are well-equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow with courage, integrity, and honor.

In a significant event that took place in Shimla, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOCinC) of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), along with other senior officers, hosted a notable interaction with cadets and staff members from the Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun.

This engagement highlighted the Army’s continuous effort to foster a sense of inspiration and leadership among the young cadets who are poised to become the future leaders of the Indian military.

The RIMC, known for its rigorous training and educational programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the armed forces, found this opportunity as an invaluable experience for its cadets. The interaction with Lt Gen Manjinder Singh and other distinguished officers offered the cadets unique insights into the life and responsibilities that come with being part of the Indian Army’s leadership cadre.

Such engagements are pivotal in bridging the gap between current military leaders and the next generation, ensuring that the values, traditions, and professional excellence of the Indian Army are passed down effectively. The visiting cadets and staff from RIMC, through this interaction, not only gained motivation but also a clearer understanding of their future roles within the military framework.

The event in Shimla was more than just an interaction; it was a testament to the Indian Army’s dedication to nurturing leadership qualities among its future ranks. By providing these young cadets with exposure to the realities and expectations of military service, the Army ensures that the future of India’s defense remains in capable and inspired hands.

In a testament to their commitment to service and community engagement, the Blazing Skies Brigade concluded their Cycling & Trekking Expedition at Jodhpur, Rajasthan, having traversed over 1000 kilometers of remote areas in the region.

This unique expedition not only showcased the physical endurance and determination of the participants but also served as a platform for interaction with veterans, Veer Naris (war widows), and youth, promoting camaraderie, well-being, and awareness about the Indian Army’s endeavors.

Led by the indomitable spirit of the Konark Corps, the expedition embodied the ethos of service and care, with each pedal stroke and step taken with a purpose.

The team, comprising dedicated personnel from various units, embarked on this challenging journey with a mission to connect with communities, hear their stories, and spread goodwill along the way.

Throughout their arduous journey, the members of the Blazing Skies Brigade made meaningful pit stops, engaging with veterans who had served the nation with valor and sacrifice.

These interactions served as poignant reminders of the resilience and spirit of our armed forces, igniting a sense of pride and gratitude among the expedition members and the communities they visited.

Moreover, the expedition team took special care to meet with Veer Naris, the brave widows of fallen soldiers, offering them support, respect, and a shoulder to lean on. These interactions, filled with empathy and compassion, reaffirmed the Army’s unwavering commitment to standing by the families of our heroes, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

In addition to their engagements with veterans and Veer Naris, the expedition team also focused on inspiring and empowering the youth of Rajasthan.

Through interactive sessions, workshops, and motivational talks, they shared insights into the life and values of the Indian Army, encouraging the youth to pursue their dreams with courage and determination.

The expedition’s outreach efforts extended beyond personal interactions, as they raised awareness about the Indian Army’s role in safeguarding the nation’s borders and promoting peace and security.

Their journey through remote areas of Rajasthan served as a reminder of the Army’s presence and commitment to the welfare of all citizens, even in the most challenging terrain.

In the hearts and minds of the communities they touched, the Blazing Skies Brigade leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and camaraderie.

Their journey, marked by moments of joy, solidarity, and shared purpose, serves as a shining example of the Indian Army’s commitment to serving the nation and touching lives with care and compassion.