Unveiling the Truth of the Battle of Longewala

By A Staff Reporter:

As India gears up to mark Vijay Diwas on December 16, commemorating the country's triumph in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, it’s a fitting time to revisit the Battle of Longewala. This battle, which occurred on the night of December 4, 1971, has been immortalized in the blockbuster movie Border, but the film leaves out crucial details that highlight the significant role played by the Indian Artillery in securing victory.

Lt Col Kulvinder Singh (Retd.), who served as the artillery commander during the battle, delves into the forgotten aspects of this decisive conflict in his book Guns of Longewala. As he recalls the fateful night, Singh paints a picture of the immense pressure and bravery exhibited by the Indian forces. Manned by a company of the 23rd Punjab Regiment under Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, the Longewala Post was severely outnumbered, with approximately 45 Pakistani tanks and mechanized infantry advancing toward it. The aim was clear: capture the post and make a quick march toward Jaisalmer.

The film depicts the courage of the infantry in holding the line, but it fails to acknowledge the artillery’s decisive contribution. Singh’s firsthand account reveals that the timely intervention of the 185th Light Regiment’s artillery was what turned the tide. As Pakistani forces prepared for a dawn assault, the Indian artillery, deployed in a daring race against time, unleashed a devastating barrage that broke the enemy’s advance.

Singh recounts the desperate race to set up artillery guns under the cover of night, the tension palpable as Pakistani tanks drew closer. With every second counting, the artillery gunners worked swiftly, preparing for a strike that would save the post. Just as dawn broke, their guns roared to life, catching the Pakistani forces by surprise and causing chaos in their ranks. This, coupled with the arrival of the Indian Air Force, forced a retreat and prevented the capture of Longewala.

The Battle of Longewala stands as a testament to the bravery and coordination of the Indian armed forces. It was not just infantry and airpower that secured the victory but the artillery that played an indispensable role. As we celebrate Vijay Diwas, it's crucial to remember the complete story, recognizing the contribution of every soldier—infantry, artillery, and air force alike.