Nation pays tribute to Kargil hero Havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed on his martyrdom anniversary

The nation today observes the martyrdom anniversary of Havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider), the great hero of the Kargil War, who laid down his life defending the motherland in 1999. His unmatched bravery and unwavering resolve continue to serve as a shining example of courage on the battlefield.

In May 1999, when India initiated a major offensive in Kargil, Havaldar Lalak Jan, then stationed at company headquarters, volunteered to move to the front lines. Alongside a small group of comrades, he fiercely defended his post, repelled multiple enemy attacks, and inflicted heavy losses.

On July 7, the enemy launched a massive assault, shelling his post throughout the day and attacking from three sides at night.

Despite being critically wounded, Lalak Jan refused to retreat, choosing instead to stay and fight until his final breath. His fearless counterattack inflicted further losses on the enemy before he embraced martyrdom in the line of duty.

Even enemy accounts later acknowledged Lalak Jan's bravery on any front, as he fought to the last man.

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The Director General of ISPR paid tribute, stating,  “On this day in 1999, Havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed demonstrated extraordinary valour by fearlessly repelling enemy attacks and defending his post despite critical injuries. Refusing evacuation, he continued to fight until he embraced martyrdom in the line of duty.”

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Air Staff and the Armed Forces of Pakistan solemnly commemorate and pay heartfelt tribute to Havildar Lalak Jan Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, honoring… pic.twitter.com/idR1yzoAkG

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) July 6, 2025

President Asif Ali Zardari, in his tribute, saluted the unparalleled courage and sacrifice of the martyr, saying, “His bravery and patriotism will always be remembered. The sacrifice of Lalak Jan Shaheed is a shining example of determination and courage for generations to come.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also honored the martyr, stating, “Havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed laid down his life to protect the beloved homeland during the Kargil War. Without caring for his own life, he thwarted the enemy's evil intentions and made the ultimate sacrifice.”