A Day of Contrasts: Scientific Achievement and Security Challenges
On November 13, 1985, India witnessed a tale of two realities - celebrating scientific advancement while grappling with security concerns across multiple states. Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi extended congratulations to the nation's scientific community for their remarkable achievements in nuclear technology, even as law enforcement agencies dealt with violent incidents from Punjab to Delhi.
Nuclear Milestones and Scientific Vision
The Prime Minister specifically acknowledged the successful launching of the Dhruva reactor along with other power reactors, marking a significant achievement for India's nuclear program. During his address, Rajiv Gandhi emphasized the importance of continuous innovation, urging scientists to focus on new research initiatives and develop plants with enhanced efficiency and safety parameters.
The safety standards achieved in India's nuclear reactors received special praise from the Prime Minister, highlighting the technical expertise and careful planning that went into these critical national projects. This recognition came at a time when India was steadily building its capabilities in nuclear technology for both energy and research purposes.
Security Incidents Across States
Meanwhile, in a tragic incident near Amritsar, Constable Bhupinder Singh of Chhabal police station made the ultimate sacrifice during an exchange of fire with extremists. The confrontation occurred at Manuchal village where police had surrounded a tube well hiding Gurbachan Singh, a wanted extremist with multiple murder cases against him.
According to police reports reaching headquarters in Amritsar, the terrorist opened fire when challenged by the police party. Constable Bhupinder Singh was fatally shot on the spot, while the accused managed to escape under the cover of darkness, leaving behind a grieving police force and family.
In a separate incident that shook the capital, four armed youths executed a sophisticated robbery in the upscale East of Kailash neighborhood of South Delhi. The well-dressed perpetrators, described as polished in speech, forced their way into the residence of Subhash Banerjee, general manager of the firm His Master's Voice.
The armed group made away with gold, cash, and other valuables worth thousands of rupees, demonstrating alarming boldness in their approach. The incident raised serious concerns about urban security in the nation's capital.
Tragic Consequences of Superstition
In a heartbreaking case from Uttar Pradesh, superstition claimed two lives in the Naraini forests of Banda district. A Delhi couple identified as 30-year-old Qayum and his 28-year-old wife Zulekha were murdered while seeking a talisman they believed would help them win a court case against their landlord.
Police investigations led to the arrest of Ehtisham, Qayum's business partner, just two days after the murders. Law enforcement agencies intensified their search for two accomplices - Kallu Nigam and Hari Kishen Vaish, both residents of Doha village in Banda Kotwali circle.
It's important to note that The Indian Express did not publish an edition on November 13, 1985, due to Diwali celebrations. All these reports originally appeared in the newspaper's November 12, 1985, edition, providing a comprehensive snapshot of a significant day in India's history where scientific progress and security challenges coexisted.
