IN the rugged mountains of Balochistan, where the battle against terrorism continues to rage, Major Rab Nawaz Gilani, a valiant officer of the Pakistan Army, laid down his life in defence of the nation.
Hailing from Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, his martyrdom is not merely a moment of national grief—it is a shining testament to the enduring spirit of loyalty, courage, and ideological conviction that defines the Kashmiri identity. Major Gilani confronted the enemy with unflinching resolve, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a soldier, a son of the soil, and a believer in the idea of Pakistan. His sacrifice rekindles the eternal pledge that Kashmiris live—and are ready to die—for Pakistan.
This sacrifice is not an isolated incident, but a powerful continuation of a proud history. Since even before Pakistan’s creation in 1947, Kashmiris have been at the forefront of the nation’s defence—whether through their voluntary accession to the state or by serving valiantly in Pakistan’s defence forces. The sons of Azad Kashmir have stood shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the country in every battle—ideological, geographical and now, asymmetrical. It is significant to note that Major Rab Nawaz is the second Kashmiri officer in recent months to have embraced martyrdom in the fight against terrorism in Balochistan. Earlier, Major Saad Bin Zubair, hailing from District Bagh, laid down his life during a military operation in Zhob. These young officers are not symbols of tragedy; they are the torchbearers of a national spirit that refuses to submit.
Their sacrifices—and those of countless other officers and soldiers from Kashmir—demonstrate a deep-rooted, blood-sealed commitment to the security and sovereignty of Pakistan. These are not chance events, but conscious acts of faith by young men who chose to wear the uniform and offer their lives for an idea larger than themselves. It is imperative to acknowledge that the Pakistan Army does not distinguish its ranks based on ethnicity or region. Once in uniform, all are soldiers of Pakistan—united by a singular purpose and unwavering discipline. Yet, the Army also celebrates the cultural and historical identity of its federating units through its regimental structure. This is why formations like the Punjab Regiment, Sindh Regiment, Baloch Regiment, Frontier Force Regiment, Azad Kashmir Regiment and the Northern Light Infantry continue to serve with pride and distinction. These units reflect the ethnic and regional mosaic of the nation, each contributing to the greater unity of Pakistan.
Kashmiris are not just symbolically represented in the defence forces; they are strategically present. According to official statistics, the representation of individuals from Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan in the military increased from 5.86% in 1990 to 9.70% by 2005—a significant contribution from two regions with relatively small populations. This presence is most pronounced in the Azad Kashmir Regiment and the Northern Light Infantry, which include highly trained officers and soldiers who have proven their mettle in every theatre of conflict. Thousands of Kashmiris have served in the war against terrorism, many earning gallantry awards and several attaining martyrdom. These numbers tell a story of deep integration, valour, and national unity.
At a time when Pakistan faces both external threats and internal subversion, the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has proven to be a critical anchor. Under his command, the Pakistan Army has responded forcefully to Indian hostilities along the Line of Control and has neutralized attempts at diplomatic isolation in global forums. Yet the more dangerous battlefield today lies within. Field Marshal Munir has boldly confronted the hybrid warfare and proxy networks operated by India inside Pakistan. His emphasis on internal stability, state authority and civil-military unity reflects a doctrine not just of deterrence, but of ideological clarity. Under his leadership, the armed forces have declared zero tolerance for divisive agendas and have redoubled efforts to shield Pakistan from both visible and invisible enemies.
Today, Kashmiris are not only defending the frontlines—they are commanding them. Lieutenant General Syed Imdad Hussain Gillani and Lieutenant General Shahid Imtiaz, both hailing from Azad Kashmir, currently head two of the Army’s premier corps. Recently, Brigadier Sardar Asif Aziz and Brigadier Sardar Tariq Khan were elevated to the rank of Major General—joining over a dozen Kashmiri generals who now hold key positions across Pakistan’s strategic, operational and administrative military echelons. This is not simply a matter of promotion; it is a reflection of trust, capability and the intellectual stature of Kashmiris within the military system. Their presence speaks to Pakistan’s national integration and Kashmir’s unshakable role in it.
While certain martyrs are publicly known, comprehensive records of Kashmiri soldiers who laid down their lives in the war against terrorism are not yet available. This underscores the need for institutions like ISPR to compile and publish a separate register honouring the martyrs of Azad Kashmir—both as a tribute and as a record of national pride. History bears witness that Kashmiris have shed blood for Pakistan across generations. From 1947 to the present, their sacrifices span every battlefield—from the icy peaks of Siachen to the deserts of Balochistan. Their loyalty has never wavered. Their commitment has never dulled.
But today, this tribute belongs especially to Major Rab Nawaz Gilani Shaheed of Muzaffarabad. His sacrifice is not just the story of a fallen officer—it is the anthem of a motherland that finds itself protected by sons like him. Muzaffarabad, long a symbol of patriotic resilience, has once again gifted the nation with a hero whose blood is a covenant of eternal loyalty. Major Gilani’s martyrdom is a beacon of national unity, a testimony to Kashmir’s love for Pakistan, and a message to all enemies—within and beyond—that the soil of Kashmir produces men who do not flinch, who do not retreat and who never betray their pledge to this country. His face has become an emblem of pride for his family, his city and his people. His blood waters the tree of national identity. His name will echo wherever the story of Pakistan’s steadfast sons is told.
—The writer is a Supreme Court lawyer and former member & Chairman Standing Committee of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council. Islamabad
(khaliqwasi786@gmail.com)
