Pakistan is currently honoring Captain Karnal Sher Khan, a celebrated hero of the Kargil War, 26 years after his death. Khan is remembered for his exceptional courage, battlefield leadership, and patriotic spirit during the 1999 Kargil conflict. He was posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, Pakistan's highest military gallantry award.
Born on January 1, 1970, in Naway Kallay village (now Karnal Sher Khan Kallay village) in Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khan came from a family with a strong sense of patriotism. His grandfather, who participated in the 1948 Kashmir Freedom Movement, had always wished for a family member to join the armed forces and gave him the title “Karnal” (Colonel). Khan initially joined the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) as an Airman in 1989 before joining the Pakistan Army as a commissioned officer in 1992. He was commissioned into the 27th Sindh Regiment on October 14, 1994, and later served with the 12th Northern Light Infantry (NLI) during the Kargil conflict.
During the Kargil War, Captain Sher Khan and his soldiers established five strategic posts at a height of 17,000 feet in the Gultari region. Despite facing intense enemy fire, they successfully defended these posts. On July 5, 1999, Indian forces launched a major assault, capturing one of his posts. Khan personally led a counter-attack to reclaim the lost ground, forcing the enemy to retreat despite being outnumbered and short on ammunition. During this fierce battle, he was fatally wounded by machine-gun fire.
Initially, the Pakistani Armed Forces did not claim the bodies of Captain Karnal Sher Khan and other soldiers, referring to them as mujahideen. However, his extraordinary bravery earned him recognition, even from the enemy. An Indian Army officer, Brigadier M. P. S. Bajwa, impressed by Khan's actions, wrote a commendation for him and placed it in his pocket while returning his body to Pakistani officials. This commendation acknowledged Khan's gallantry and recommended that Pakistan honor him posthumously.
Captain Sher Khan's actions and sacrifice continue to inspire the nation. Senior military leaders, including COAS General Asim Munir, have paid tribute to his courage and sacrifice. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has emphasized that his selflessness and dedication exemplify the spirit of the Pakistani military. His legacy serves as a guiding light for future generations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also paid tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan, recognizing his unmatched bravery and the respect he earned even from the enemy. Religious scholars have highlighted the significance of his sacrifice, emphasizing that martyrs are the pride of the nation and their sacrifices are a debt upon every citizen.
The 26th martyrdom anniversary of Captain Karnal Sher Khan was commemorated across Pakistan with special Quran recitations and prayers. His story of valor, loyalty, and selflessness remains etched in the collective memory of Pakistan, and the Armed Forces have reaffirmed their commitment to defend the country with the same spirit of sacrifice and courage that he demonstrated.
