Vir Chakra (VrC)

Rifleman Bajiram Thapa was with his platoon in a post in NEFA, which the Chinese attacked in overwhelming numbers on 24 October 1962. Rifleman Thapa, who was covering the main track, shot dead two advancing enemy soldiers. Even when a burst of enemy fire wounded him in the left hand, he continued firing and killed yet another enemy soldier. By this time the enemy had got very close and Rifleman Thapa was wounded again.

His platoon had to withdraw without him. Wounded and without food, water and adequate clothing, he remained behind the enemy lines for three days before he succeeded in rejoining his platoon.

In this action, Rifleman Bajiram Thapa displayed courage, determination and resourcefulness of a high order.