Operation Polo History Must Be Preserved for Future Generations: K. Laxman

BJP leaders and former servicemen on Sunday paid tribute to the soldiers who took part in Operation Polo, the 1948 military action that led to the integration of the Hyderabad State with the Indian Union, and called for the episode to be preserved for future generations.

At an Operation Polo Day programme at Tank Bund, floral tributes were offered to military tanks displayed at the venue in memory of the soldiers who fought during the operation. Speakers said the history of the 1948 police action and Hyderabad's integration needed to be presented more extensively to younger generations.

BJP Rajya Sabha MP K. Laxman said the operation began on September 13, 1948, and ended within five days with the Nizam surrendering and Hyderabad joining the Indian Union. He said the Indian Army advanced from different directions under the command of Major General J.N. Chaudhuri.

Laxman alleged that the Nizam had refused to accede to India and sought to keep Hyderabad as a separate Islamic state. He said the Razakars, described as the Nizam's private militia, were responsible for attacks and restrictions on people. He said the operation was undertaken following then Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's decision to integrate Hyderabad with India.

Laxman criticised successive governments for failing to adequately recognise the episode and said the Narendra Modi government had given official prominence to Hyderabad's integration. He said September 17 was now officially observed by the Centre, with major programmes being held at Parade Grounds under Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

He also accused the Congress, earlier BRS governments and the Majlis party of failing to adequately acknowledge the historical sentiments surrounding the episode. He said the history should reach Gen Z, Gen Alpha and Gen Beta so that the sacrifices of those involved are not forgotten.

Former servicemen said 46 soldiers lost their lives during Operation Polo and highlighted the bravery of Havildar Bachan Singh and Ran Bahadur Thapa, who received Ashoka Chakra honours. They urged the Telangana government to include the episode in school curricula and asked the Centre and state to formally honour Sardar Patel and the 46 fallen soldiers every September 17.

They said Operation Polo remains an important chapter in India's history, marking the end of Nizam rule and strengthening the country's unity and sovereignty.