07-05-2025
1971 India-Pakistan War: Retired Captain Recalls How Indian Troops Captured A Fort 'Without Single Shot'
Retd Captain Bajrang Lal Doodi recalled that as their platoon neared Islamgarh Fort, raising slogans, the Pakistani forces fled without firing a shot
In response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, India has launched Operation Sindoor, a targeted military operation aimed at eliminating terrorist threats. As part of this operation, Indian forces carried out air strikes on terror hideouts across Pakistan, neutralising terrorists in nine strategic locations within just 16 days of the Pahalgam attack.
While Pakistan has faced defeat in four previous wars, questions remain about how long it can withstand pressure this time. According to 85-year-old retired captain Bajrang Lal Doodi, who fought in the 1965 and 1971 wars, Pakistan will not survive if another conflict breaks out.
'Whether through defence strategy, military might, or diplomacy, India has foiled Pakistan's plans time and again — and will continue to do so," Captain Doodi, who served in the Indian Army's Rajputana Rifles, said.
Captain Doodi joined the Rajputana Rifles as a Havildar in 1958 at the age of 18. He recalled his experiences from the 1971 war, during which he was posted with the Motor Platoon in Nasirabad. On receiving orders from senior officers, his platoon moved first to Jodhpur and then to Jaisalmer. At the time, there was uncertainty over whether India would go to war.
Deployed To Islamgarh
After staying in Ramgarh for 10–12 days, followed by six days near the Ghantiyali temple, Doodi's unit moved to Kishangarh. On the evening of December 4, 1971, he received critical orders related to national security. His platoon then set off from Kishangarh towards Islamgarh in Pakistan. At the border, he was joined by his fellow Company Commander, Havildar Dayanand. Islamgarh lay just 20 kilometres from the Indian border.
As they approached the town, Pakistani troops opened fire. Tragically, Havildar Dayanand was hit by nearly 25 bullets and died.
Doodi recalled that their platoon, consisting of 830 soldiers and officers, advanced with determination. As they neared Islamgarh Fort, Indian troops raised slogans that sent panic through the Pakistani forces. The enemy fled, leaving behind weapons and supplies, without firing a single shot. On the morning of December 5, Indian forces took control of the fort without resistance.
The platoon stayed there the entire day before receiving orders to return to Kishangarh that evening. A Delta Company, made up entirely of Muslim soldiers, was left behind to hold the fort.
First Published:
May 07, 2025, 12:29 IST
