BHUJ: Women home guards who actively served during the 1971 India-Pakistan war in Bhuj have now voiced their willingness to defend the nation again if called upon.
Reflecting on her wartime experiences, Jyotiben Upadhyay, a former Home Guard, recounted how they patrolled Bhuj’s streets in groups during blackouts to reassure residents about the situation.
Jyotiben Upadhyay said, “I had joined the Home Guard services in 1971. When the war had started, Pakistan had thrown 17 bombs on Bhuj in a single day…there was a blackout in Bhuj, we all used to go in the streets together and comfort the people who were scared of the situation.”
“Today, the same situation is arising again; terrorists have again attacked Kashmir. Innocent civilians were killed. There is definitely an atmosphere of war on the borders. We women will have to gather courage and be alert again…Even if they call us today for any desk job, I am ready to serve again,” she added.
Jyoti Kothari, another Home Guard from 1971, recalled their thorough weapons training during their service period.
“We were trained extensively on how to use weapons…It was tough for women to even step out of the house, and we felt proud while wearing the Home Guard Uniform. I urge women to step up for the country, as the situation has worsened. We discussed with the whole team that as the situation has worsened, we should also do something (for the nation), ” she said.
In light of the Pahalgam terror incident that claimed 26 lives, relations with Pakistan have deteriorated. The government has promised strict action against those responsible.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted full autonomy to the armed forces regarding the selection of methods, objectives, and schedule for India’s retaliatory measures.