Draft:Sardar Singh Chhatwal

Sardar Singh Chhatwal, also known as Sardar Singh, served as Assistant Superintendent of Police in Singapore. During his tenure, Singh was the highest-ranking Sikh officer in the Singapore Police Force.

Known for his dedication, professionalism, and leadership in the law enforcement community, Sardar Singh dedicated his life to protecting the people of Singapore, upholding the law and maintaining peace and order in the city-state.

Early Life
Sardar Singh was born in the Punjab, British India, on 1 March, 1912. Educated in India, he came to Malaya to join the Police on 2 January, 1932. Singh first came to notice in 1933 when he rescued a Chinese woman from drowning. He soon proved himself as an expert investigator for which he received several commendations and was selected as Inspector of Police in July 1938.

Career
Sardar Singh had a long and distinguished career in the Singapore Police Force, serving in various roles and rising through the ranks to become Assistant Superintendent of Police.

Singh’s leadership and dedication to law enforcement earned him recognition and respect within the Singapore Police Force and the community at large.

Singh had a long and distinguished career in law enforcement, and he was a role model for many young officers who looked up to him. He was known for his integrity, professionalism and unwavering commitment to upholding the law.

Singh served with the Malay, Indian and Chinese contingent of the Singapore Police Force.

Initially he served in Joo Chiat Division and in the Malay and Indian Sub-branch of the CID. He was then stationed at Orchard Road.

Beginning as a Constable, Singh quickly rose to become an Inspector and then Senior Inspector of Police. In May 1948, he was promoted to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (A.S.P.).

During his tenure as A.S.P., Singh played a key role in implementing various crime prevention initiatives and strategies to enhance public safety and security in Singapore. He was known for his strong commitment to community policing and building positive relationships between the police force and the public.

In September 1948, Singh was appointed as Justice of the Peace.

On 13 November, 1952, Singh was selected for a course at Ryton-on-Dunsmore in Britain, where he went on behalf of the Singapore Police Force in January 1953.

In May 1953, it was announced that Singh had won the Singapore Government's most valuable Coronation presentation. As part of the Coronation Gift, Singh travelled to Britain once again for Police Training Course (A.1).

On 16 October, 1953, Singh was promoted from Assistant Superintendent of Police to Acting Deputy Superintendent of Police.

On 9 December, 1955, the Singapore Government announced Singh’s promotion to Acting Director, Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau. Singh was the first Asian police officer to become Director of the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau when he took over from Mr. R. B. Corridon in 1954.

In March 1957, whilst still serving as Deputy Superintendent, Singh was promoted to Superintendent of Police.

From 1957-1959 Singh served as Traffic Police Chief, Singapore.

From 1960-1962, Singh served as Superintendent-in-charge of the Police Headquarters at Pearl's Hill.

On 1 August 1962, Singh was appointed for a second time as Traffic Police Chief.

Awards
Singh's contributions to the police force in Singapore are widely recognized, and he was awarded several commendations for his outstanding service.

Whilst serving as Assistant Superintendent of Police, Singh was invited to London for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, where he received the Colonial Police Medal for Meritorious Service at the 1953 Coronation Honours.

On 22nd October, 1954, whilst serving as Acting Superintendent of Police, Singh was awarded the Colonial Police Medal by the Governor of Singapore. At the time, Singh was the highest-ranking Sikh officer in the Singapore Police Force. He was awarded the medal for "meritorious service" as an officer with the "qualities of leadership and resourcefulness, and exceptionally keen and thorough devotion to duty".

Retirement and Later Life
Sardar Singh was a well-regarded and influential figure in the law enforcement community in Singapore, and his contributions to public safety and security in the country were invaluable.

After a long and distinguished career in law enforcement, Singh retired from public life but continued to be involved in community initiatives and projects aimed at promoting safety and security in Singapore.

Singh is widely considered as a visionary leader who made significant contributions to law enforcement in Singapore.

Personal Life
Sardar Singh married Nanki in 1928 in India. She joined him in Singapore in 1935.

Singh was a dedicated family man who placed a high priority on spending time with his loved ones. Despite his demanding job, he always made sure to allocate quality time for his wife and seven children.

Singh made it a point to have dinner with his family every evening. On Sundays, Singh and his family would visit the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) and participate in prayers and cultural activities.

Singh valued teaching his children life lessons, such as the importance of honesty, hard work, discipline and respect for others. He encouraged his children to excel in school and pursue their passions, whilst instilling in them a sense of responsibility towards their community.

Singh's wife, Nanki, was a supportive partner to Singh and played an active role in managing the household and caring for their children. As parents, both served as excellent role models, without any bad habits such as smoking or drinking. Together, they strove to create a warm and loving home environment for the family, where open communication and mutual respect were valued.

Singh’s home, “Sardar House”, was renowned as a place of generous hospitality where no one left without being offered a meal or drink. From common workers to VIPs and visiting dignitaries, all were welcomed and served with respect.

Singh's personal life was one of love, support and strong family values. Despite the challenges of his high-pressure job, he was committed to being a present and involved father and husband, whilst remaining a highly respected member of society.

Sardar Singh was a fine man.

Death
Singh passed away peacefully on 3 April, 1983 in Singapore, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Prayers and Guru Ka Langar were held at Gurdwara Katong, 17 Wilkinson Road, Singapore.