Munir Praises Pakistan’s Kargil Hero, But It Was an Indian Letter That First Recognized His Bravery
INDIAN DEFENCE
In July 2025, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir paid tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan, one of the most prominent soldiers Pakistan lost during the 1999 Kargil War. Munir’s remarks recognized Sher Khan’s bravery and sacrifice during the conflict, referring to him as a martyr and national hero. His acknowledgment came as Pakistan marked Kargil commemorations, a rare public moment of military reflection by its leadership about a war the country has often downplayed. Munir highlighted Sher Khan’s courage in leading from the front and praised the soldier's devotion during intense battles with Indian forces in the icy heights of Kargil.
However, what made this recognition particularly noteworthy was that Captain Sher Khan’s valor was not initially celebrated by Pakistan. In the immediate aftermath of the Kargil War, the Pakistani establishment refused to accept the bodies of its fallen soldiers, including Sher Khan. It was only after Indian forces recovered his body during the battle at Tiger Hill and handed it over with dignity that his heroism began to come to light. Indian troops were reportedly so moved by Sher Khan’s bravery that Brigadier M.P.S. Bajwa of the Indian Army wrote a note commending his leadership and slipped it into his uniform before the handover, urging the Pakistani military to recognize his sacrifice.
The note by Brig Bajwa played a crucial role in changing how Sher Khan was remembered in his own country. The Indian officer’s words described Sher Khan as a courageous and honorable opponent who fought valiantly, even in the face of certain death. This unexpected gesture of respect from a former adversary sparked recognition in Pakistan and ultimately led to Sher Khan being posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, Pakistan’s highest military gallantry award. His story became a powerful symbol of soldierly respect that transcends national borders and political divides.
Captain Sher Khan has since become an enduring figure of national pride in Pakistan. Roads, military installations, and educational institutions have been named after him, and his story is taught as an example of supreme sacrifice. General Munir’s recent tribute appears to be part of a larger effort to officially acknowledge the role and sacrifices of soldiers in past conflicts, even ones that were previously shrouded in political ambiguity. It also shows a growing willingness within Pakistan’s military establishment to engage with difficult truths about its own wartime history.
Ultimately, this story reflects a powerful truth: courage in battle commands respect regardless of which side a soldier fights for. The Indian Army's respectful handling of Sher Khan’s body and the note written by Brigadier Bajwa served not just as a gesture of humanity, but also as a bridge of military honor across enemy lines. General Munir’s recognition, more than two decades later, closes the circle on a tale of valor and dignity, proving that in war, even enemies can recognize the light of heroism in each other.
