The Border Security Force (BSF) has officially resumed the iconic Beating Retreat ceremony at three Joint Check Posts (JCPs) along the Punjab frontier, signaling a return to tradition after a temporary suspension prompted by heightened security concerns. Starting today, the flag-lowering ritual will be held at 6 PM daily at the Attari-Wagah checkpoint in Amritsar district, Hussainiwala in Ferozepur, and Sadiqi in Fazilka.
This ceremony, celebrated for its military precision and cultural symbolism, had been suspended since May 9, following a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including foreign tourists. The incident, along with India’s swift military response under Operation Sindoor targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure across the border, heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to restricted border crossings and the temporary halt of the Beating Retreat—a tradition that has been observed since 1959.
The Beating Retreat event features coordinated high-stepping drills, dramatic salutes, and synchronized flag-lowering performed by the BSF and Pakistan Rangers. This spectacle has traditionally drawn large crowds and served as a symbol of patriotic pride and cross-border tradition. However, in the wake of the May attack, public sentiment in India turned sharply against the event, with critics labeling it as inappropriate during a national crisis, resulting in a scaled-down ceremony and closure of the Integrated Check Post at Attari. This closure severely impacted trade and cross-border exchanges.
With tensions now beginning to ease, the BSF has moved to fully reinstate the ceremony and reopen public access. Officials anticipate a high turnout as both tourists and locals return to witness this powerful display of discipline and national pride. Enhanced security arrangements have been implemented to ensure the safety of spectators and prevent any disruptions, particularly in light of previous incidents, such as the 2014 suicide bombing at Wagah that claimed 60 lives.
The resumption of the Beating Retreat is viewed as a gesture of resilience and a cautious step toward normalcy in India-Pakistan relations. While diplomatic ties remain strained, the ceremony’s return underscores the lasting significance of tradition, cultural expression, and public engagement at one of the world’s most sensitive international borders.
