Taking on terrorists with World War-II guns

While the focus of the media may have been on the terrorist attacks at the Taj and Trident hotels, it was at the Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus, the lifeline of Mumbai, where the maximum casualties took place. It was at CST, where a group of 8 policemen with World War II-era rifles took on superbly trained terrorists, armed with AK-47 automatic rifles. The eight brave policemen were Assistant sub-inspector (ASI) Narayan Chavhan, ASI Anandrao Desai, constable Dhondiba Chandane, constable Nielkant Khanolkar, constable Sohail Sheikh (rifle), constable Anand Mayekar, constable Raghunath Choudhar and driver Vishwas Andhale.They fought the armed terrorists with nothing but their 303 rifles, just after two terrorists had opened fire on unsuspecting commuters, and escaped onto the streets.The policemen, some near retirement, dodged bullets and grenades forcing the terrorists to escape towards Cama hospital. "When we realized there was firing at CST, I told my team to grab their rifles and take positions," said constable Dhondiba Chandane, Pydhonie police station.For many of the policemen, it was the first time they had ever fired a bullet while on duty. Others had not pulled the trigger for well over a decade."I first once in 1984 during the riots and another during the 1993 riots," said constable Dhondiba Chandane, Pydhonie police station.The battle may only have lasted a few minutes but the policemen say it's taught them the lesson of their lifetime."Now we will always be alert," said ASI Narayan Chavhan, Pydhonie police station.Now, bullet holes at CST are a chilling reminder of the gun battle that took place there on November 26. But before the wounds heal and memories fade, it is important for the government to arm our guardians of law with assault weapons to combat the new age terrorism