Naik Saif Ali Janjua’s name is etched in the annals of Pakistan’s history as a symbol of unwavering defiance and supreme sacrifice during the nascent stages of the nation’s existence. He was born on April 23, 1922, in the village of Nakyal, located in the Kotli District of Azad Kashmir. His early life was characterized by the rugged terrain and martial traditions of the region, which instilled in him a resilient spirit and a deep sense of patriotism. He joined the British Indian Army in 1941, serving with distinction until the creation of Pakistan in 1947. Following the partition, he opted to join the Azad Kashmir Regiment, a force that would soon find itself at the heart of the first major conflict with India.
The year 1948 saw the full-scale outbreak of the Indo-Pakistani War over the disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Naik Saif Ali Janjua was a platoon commander in the 18th Azad Kashmir Regiment, tasked with defending a critical position known as Pir Kalewa. This forward post was strategically vital, as its control would grant a significant advantage in the ongoing conflict. On October 26, 1948, his post came under a heavy and determined assault by Indian forces. The attackers outnumbered Janjua’s small platoon significantly and were supported by intense artillery and machine-gun fire.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Naik Saif Ali Janjua and his men stood their ground. He moved from position to position, directing his troops and encouraging them to hold the line. His leadership and composure under fire were exemplary. He personally engaged the enemy, his courage inspiring his men to fight with renewed vigor. As the battle raged on, he was critically injured by an artillery shell. The wound was severe, but he refused to be evacuated. Displaying incredible resolve, he continued to command his platoon and even crawled to collect ammunition from fallen comrades to ensure his men had the resources to continue fighting.
While repositioning his troops for a counter-attack, he was fatally struck by another artillery shell. His final act was one of selfless leadership, ensuring his unit was in the best possible position to defend the post. His unwavering defiance and leadership, even in the face of death, inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy and allowed his unit to successfully hold the post against multiple assaults. His martyrdom was a crucial factor in the successful defense of the Pir Kalewa sector.
For his extraordinary valor and self-sacrifice, Naik Saif Ali Janjua was posthumously awarded the Hilal-e-Kashmir by the government of Azad Kashmir. This award was later recognized as the equivalent of the Nishan-e-Haider, making him the third recipient of Pakistan’s highest military honor. His bravery and commitment to the defense of his homeland at Pir Kalewa have made him a celebrated hero. His legacy continues to serve as an inspiration for the soldiers of the Azad Kashmir Regiment and the entire nation, reminding them of the price of freedom and the valor required to preserve it.
