A memorial gathering was held in Falota village in Chamoli on the 10th death anniversary of Shaheed Suraj Topal, where residents paid tribute to the soldier and honoured his family. The event also renewed a local demand to name Simli Base Hospital after him.
Villagers placed flowers at Shaheed Suraj Topal’s life-size statue and observed a 2-minute silence. The programme concluded with the national anthem and slogans of “Shaheed Suraj Topal Amar Rahe”, which echoed across the area.
Family and students honoured
Shaheed Suraj Topal’s father, Narayan Singh, and other family members were honoured during the gathering. The programme also recognised meritorious students Prince Bhandari and Manvi Rawat.
The event brought together local representatives, community members and members of the organising committee. Those present included Ramesh Gadiya, a state government office-bearer; former block chief Rajendra Sagoi; former district panchayat member Devendra Singh Negi; Kapiri Sangharsh Samiti president Khildev Singh Rawat; and area panchayat member Narendra Topal Shastri.
The participants said Shaheed Suraj Topal’s sacrifice would always be remembered across the country. Their remarks focused on preserving his memory and recognising the contribution of his family.
Demand to rename Simli Base Hospital
Residents called for Simli Base Hospital to be named after Shaheed Suraj Topal. The demand was raised during the tribute programme and was linked to an ongoing movement concerning the hospital.
Ramesh Gadiya specifically praised Devendra Singh Negi, who is leading the movement related to the base hospital. He also commended PTA president Rakesh Negi for campaigning over teachers’ demands in Nainisain.
Other attendees included Bhagwan Kandwal, Pratap Topal, former block chief Narendra Singh Bhandari, organising committee president Uttam Singh Topal, Sanjay Kandwal and Matwar Topal.
Conclusion
The Falota gathering combined a tribute to Shaheed Suraj Topal with recognition for his family and local students. Villagers also used the 10th death anniversary programme to renew their demand for Simli Base Hospital to bear his name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where was the tribute programme held?
The programme was held in Falota village in Chamoli.
Q. What anniversary was observed?
The gathering marked the 10th death anniversary of Shaheed Suraj Topal.
Q. How did villagers pay tribute?
They offered flowers at his life-size statue, observed a 2-minute silence and joined the national anthem and tribute slogans.
Q. Who from Shaheed Suraj Topal’s family was honoured?
His father, Narayan Singh, and other family members were honoured.
Q. What demand was raised at the event?
Villagers demanded that Simli Base Hospital be named after Shaheed Suraj Topal.
Q. Which students were recognised?
Meritorious students Prince Bhandari and Manvi Rawat were honoured.
