Major Muhammad Akram’s name is inextricably linked with the Battle of Hilli during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, where his extraordinary bravery and leadership held back a much larger enemy force, earning him the posthumous title of the “Lion of Hilli.” Born on April 4, 1938, in the village of Nakka Kalan, located in the Jhelum District, he hailed from a family with a strong tradition of military service. His disciplined upbringing and a profound sense of patriotism led him to join the Pakistan Army. He was commissioned into the Frontier Force Regiment in 1963 and was already a seasoned veteran, having served with distinction in the 1965 war.
In the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, the focus shifted to the eastern and western fronts. Major Muhammad Akram was a company commander in the 4th Frontier Force Regiment, deployed in the Hilli sector of what was then East Pakistan. This area was of immense strategic importance as it was a crucial communication hub and a gateway to key cities. The Indian Army’s objective was to capture Hilli and cut off the Pakistani forces. They launched a massive offensive with an overwhelming numerical superiority, backed by armor and artillery support.
Major Akram’s company was tasked with defending the sector against this assault. For nearly a fortnight, from November 20 to December 5, 1971, his small unit, with limited resources and facing continuous and heavy attacks, stood its ground. They were under constant bombardment from artillery and subjected to fierce tank attacks. Major Akram, leading from the front, became the embodiment of defiance. He moved between his positions under heavy fire, inspiring his men and directing their defense. He personally engaged enemy tanks and infantry, thwarting multiple attempts by the Indian forces to breach their defenses. The enemy’s repeated assaults were repelled with heavy losses, a testament to his tactical brilliance and the courage of his men.
On December 5, 1971, the enemy launched another major push, supported by tanks. Major Akram, observing the threat, took it upon himself to neutralize an enemy tank with a recoilless rifle. While moving towards a vantage point to fire, he was hit by a burst of machine-gun fire from the very tank he intended to destroy. He was fatally wounded and succumbed to his injuries, embracing martyrdom. His sacrifice, however, was not in vain. His heroic stand had successfully delayed the enemy’s advance for an extended period, inflicting significant casualties and demonstrating a level of resistance that was unexpected.
For his exemplary leadership, courage, and ultimate sacrifice, Major Muhammad Akram was posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, the fourth soldier to receive the honor in the 1971 war alone. His actions at Hilli became a powerful symbol of the indomitable spirit of the Pakistan Armed Forces. The “Lion of Hilli” is remembered as a soldier who, against all odds, chose to stand and fight, inspiring his comrades to perform above and beyond the call of duty. His story continues to be a source of national pride, ensuring that his valor is never forgotten.
