Families mourn as Basra memorial to Indian soldiers falls into disrepair

The memorial in Basra, dedicated to soldiers from various princely state armies who perished during World War I, faces increasing neglect and physical deterioration. Among those remembered are jawans from the Mysore Lancers, the armed force of the erstwhile Mysore princely state, which formed part of the Indian Expeditionary Force deployed across multiple theatres during the Great War.

Families of the fallen soldiers have expressed deep concern over the condition of the memorial, which stands as a testament to the sacrifice made by Indian troops during the global conflict. The deterioration raises questions about the maintenance and preservation of war graves and memorials in Iraq, where several such sites require urgent restoration.

The Indian Expeditionary Force drew personnel from numerous princely states alongside British Indian Army units. The Mysore Lancers, in particular, served with distinction during the campaign in Mesopotamia, though their contributions remain relatively unknown in India today.

The plight of the Basra memorial highlights broader concerns about the upkeep of historical sites commemorating Indian soldiers' service overseas. Efforts to preserve these monuments are considered vital for honouring the memory of those who served and for maintaining historical records of India's military heritage during the pre-independence period.