MUZAFFARABAD: The 77th martyrdom anniversary of Naik Saif Ali Janjua Shaheed (Hilal-e-Kashmir), a soldier of the Pakistan Army’s Azad Kashmir Regiment, observed today with respect and national pride.
In this regard, the commemorative ceremonies were held across Azad Jammu and Kashmir to honor his constant courage and ultimate sacrifice during the 1948 Pakistan–India War.
In this sense, he was born on April 23, 1922, in Khandhar, Naik Saif Ali Janjua returned to Pakistan after independence in 1947 and joined Sardar Fateh Muhammad Karealvi’s “Haidri Force.”
The unit was later renamed the “Sher-e-Riyasat Battalion” on January 1, 1948. He was promoted to the rank of Naik and assigned to defend the Budha Khanna sector.
Furthermore, Naik Saif Ali Janjua displayed remarkable bravery at the strategically important Pir Kalewa Post. The 18th Azad Kashmir Regiment had successfully captured the position in its initial offensive across the Poonch River.
In addition, Indian forces launched repeated counterattacks but were repelled each time by the steadfast defenders under Naik Janjua’s command.
The Indian Army mounted a massive assault, supported by artillery, tanks, and air strikes. He continued operating his machine gun and inspired his men to stand firm against overwhelming odds.
Moreover, Naik Janjua and his small group of Mujahideen fought valiantly until an enemy shell fatally struck his position. He got martyrdom on October 26, 1948, defending the homeland with exceptional courage and devotion.
The enemy failed to capture the post and suffered heavy casualties, the Defence Council of Azad Jammu and Kashmir awarded him the region’s highest military honor, Hilal-e-Kashmir, on March 14, 1949. In 1995.
The memory of Naik Saif Ali Janjua Shaheed continues to inspire generations, symbolizing the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism that defines the armed forces of Pakistan.
