Pithoragarh: The silenceof the state Governor—himself from a military background—has triggered sharp outrage among ex-servicemen, with protests against the proposed relocation of the Eco Battalion turning aggressive on the 40th day of agitation.
Taking strong exception to what they termed as “deafening silence” on an issue tied to military legacy, dozens of veterans poured onto the streets, staging a massive bike rally across the town. The rally, which began from the protest site, moved through key areas before reaching the Bharkatia cantonment, followed by a foot march that echoed with slogans and visible anger.
The flashpoint came during the Governor’s address, where he referred to the legacy of General B.C. Joshi and institutions linked to him, but made no mention of the Eco Battalion—an omission that did not go down well with the protesting veterans.
“We have been sitting here for 40 days. For a Governor with a soldier’s background to remain silent on this issue is deeply disappointing. This is not just neglect—it is an insult to our dignity,” said members of the ex-servicemen association.
The protesters later submitted a memorandum seeking immediate intervention. Though the Governor has invited a delegation to Raj Bhavan, Dehradun, the ex-servicemen say the time for symbolic gestures is over.
Issuing a clear warning, the organization said that if no concrete action is taken within a week, all visiting public representatives and dignitaries in the district will be greeted with black flags.
Leaders underlined that the agitation has now gone beyond a single battalion. “This is a fight for our identity, our heritage, and the future of our youth,” they said, urging people across the district to join the movement.
With a strong turnout, including several senior members of the association, the protest has entered a निर्णायक phase—one that, the veterans insist, will continue until their demands are met.
