Imphal, September 4: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) today felicitated Vir Chakra awardee Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik at his residence in Keikhu village, Imphal East. The Sangh hailed his extraordinary bravery during Operation Sindoor and described him as “a role model for the youth of Manipur and the entire nation”.
A team of senior RSS functionaries, led by Kh. Rajen Singh, Karyawah of Assam Kshetra, along with Dr. Sunil Mohanty, Prachar Pramukh of Assam Kshetra; Shijagurumayum Tarunkumar Sharma, Karyawah, RSS Manipur Prant; Taorem Dineshor Singh, Sah-Karyawah, RSS Manipur Prant; Mitrunjay, Pracharak, RSS Manipur Prant; Binanda Khundrakpam, Sah-Pracharak, RSS Manipur Prant; and Laishram Jatra Singh, Executive Member of RSS Manipur, visited the gallant soldier at his home. They were warmly received by Rizwan’s father Hafizuddin Malik, family members, and local community leaders.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sunil Mohanty lauded Squadron Leader Rizwan’s exceptional courage, composure under fire, and unwavering dedication to the motherland.
He said Rizwan’s heroism during Operation Sindoor reflected the indomitable spirit of Bharat’s soldiers, who always place national duty above personal safety.
“His gallantry highlights the strength of our Armed Forces and the timeless values of discipline, teamwork, and sacrifice that define India. Rizwan stands as a true role model for the younger generation,” he remarked.
Dr. Mohanty further underlined the integrated and coordinated nature of India’s defence system, where the three wings of the Armed Forces work in synergy with political leadership, and later with diplomatic missions across the world. “It is this unity of purpose,” he observed, “that makes India’s security framework strong and unique in the global context.”
On this memorable occasion, the gathering fondly recalled the golden legacy of Colonel Shaukat Ali Malik, from Manipur, who served as head of the Intelligence Department in the Indian National Army (INA) under Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Keikhu village itself has long been known for its deep spirit of nationalism and bravery. Alongside Colonel Shaukat Ali Malik, the village remembers Niyamat Tulla, another distinguished son of the soil who fought in the last Anglo-Manipur War- the Battle of Khongjom- alongside Paona Brajabashi. Squadron Leader Rizwan’s honour today, the leaders noted, is a continuation of Keikhu’s historic contributions to the nation.
The RSS leaders wished Squadron Leader Rizwan a distinguished military career ahead, expressing confidence that he would continue to serve the country with the same spirit of sacrifice and commitment in the years to come.
Addressing the gathering, Squadron Leader Rizwan reflected on the unique character of the Indian Armed Forces, describing them as among the most spirited, professional, and coordinated in the world. Stressing the importance of collective effort, he remarked, “Nothing is possible without teamwork, and the credit goes to the entire team working behind the scenes of the operation.” He also recalled the words of Brigadier Saurabh Singh Shekhawat, who once said: “The enemy is our enemy as long as he is alive, but once he dies, we regard him as a martyr.” Rizwan noted that this reflects the Indian Army’s ethos of honour, humanity, and discipline, even amidst conflict.
Drawing inspiration from former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Rizwan described him as his role model, saying that Kalam’s simplicity, humility, and unwavering dedication to the nation continue to guide him. He shared that the operation for which he was awarded the Vir Chakra lasted a short time period, yet demanded absolute courage, sharp coordination, and the selfless commitment of his team.
The RSS leaders also proudly recalled that BSF Constable Deepak Chingakham, another braveheart from Manipur, had earlier been awarded the Vir Chakra for his courage in counter-terrorist operations. His sacrifice, along with Rizwan Malik’s heroism, they said, reflects the indomitable spirit of Manipur’s youth in defending the nation. Together, these brave sons of the soil stand as symbols of courage and inspiration for future generations.
Rizwan’s recognition with the Vir Chakra, one of India’s most prestigious military honours, not only brings glory to Manipur but also strengthens the message of unity in diversity and patriotism that binds the country.
The RSS team concluded by affirming that Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik truly embodies the spirit of nationalism, sacrifice, and service—values that Keikhu village has proudly nurtured for generations. They expressed confidence that his example, alongside that of Constable Deepak Chingakham, will inspire the youth of Manipur and the entire nation to live with dedication and duty towards India.
