Major Raja Aziz Bhatti remembered on 61st martyrdom anniversary 

Rawalpindi (Web Desk): The 61st martyrdom anniversary of Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed, recipient of Nishan-e-Haider, is being observed today (Saturday) to pay tribute to his supreme sacrifice during the 1965 Pakistan-India war.

Major Raja Aziz Bhatti was serving as a company commander in the Burki area of Lahore’s sector when he decided to remain alongside his forward platoon despite facing relentless artillery and tank attacks from Indian forces.

Facing continuous enemy fire, he led his troops with courage and determination and played a key role in strengthening the defence of the BRB Canal.

Major Raja Aziz Bhatti continued to command his men from the front until an enemy tank shell struck him in the chest, resulting in his martyrdom on this day in 1965.

In recognition of his exceptional bravery and sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded Pakistan’s highest military gallantry award, the Nishan-e-Haider.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have honoured Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed, a recipient of the Nishan-e-Haider, on the 61st anniversary of his martyrdom.

In separate messages issued to mark the occasion, both leaders remembered his remarkable bravery and supreme sacrifice for the country. They said Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed’s devotion reflected an unshakable resolve to safeguard the homeland and protect its territorial integrity.

They emphasised that his sacrifice remains a powerful symbol of patriotism, courage and dedication to the defence of Pakistan.

President Asif Ali Zardari has honoured Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed, a recipient of the Nishan-e-Haider, on the 61st anniversary of his martyrdom, recalling the remarkable bravery and sacrifice he demonstrated while defending Pakistan during the 1965 war.

In his message issued to mark the occasion, President Zardari said Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed secured an everlasting place in the nation’s history after giving his life in defence of the country.

He said the sacrifice reflected an unwavering commitment to protecting the homeland and preserving its territorial integrity.

The president said the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of the national hero remained a matter of pride for Pakistanis and continued to offer an example for the younger generation.

He maintained that the country would always remember those who laid down their lives for its freedom, sovereignty and national security.

President Zardari said the sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs would continue to be honoured, while their devotion and unmatched patriotism would remain a source of inspiration for the nation.

He added that the determination and courage shown by Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed while guarding Pakistan’s frontiers would continue to influence generations to come.

President said the nation collectively pays tribute to Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed and every other martyr who made the ultimate sacrifice for the protection and integrity of the motherland.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid rich tribute to Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed on his 61st martyrdom anniversary.

In his message, PM Shehbaz said, “The invaluable sacrifice of Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed in the history of defence of the homeland is a bright story of bravery and courage.

The premier said that the nation salutes the patriotism and sacrifices of all martyrs, particularly Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed. “The name of the martyrs, like their sacrifice, is a metaphor for selfless love for the homeland. Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed’s great sacrifice for the homeland is our national asset,” he added.

He further said, “The soil of the homeland is a witness that its brave sons put their lives on the line for its sanctity and defence.

PM Shehbaz added, “The unwavering determination to protect and defend the country is in our veins.” He further said, “The unprecedented sacrifice and bravery of Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed is a symbol of national pride and is a beacon of light for the youth. May Allah Almighty raise the ranks of the martyrs. Amen,” he added.

May Allah Almighty raise the ranks of the martyrs. Amen,” he added.

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Commander National Strategic Command (CNSC) General Syed Aamer Raza, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, solemnly commemorate the 61st martyrdom anniversary of Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider and pay rich tribute to his exceptional courage, leadership and supreme sacrifice.

“During the 1965 War, Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed defended the Burki sector near Lahore with extraordinary valour, holding his ground against relentless enemy assaults for five days and nights. His resolute leadership and indomitable spirit halted the enemy’s advance and became an enduring symbol of courage, duty and sacrifice. His legacy lives on as an inspiration to the nation and generations of Pakistan’s defenders,” a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

The statement said that Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed’s selfless devotion to duty, unwavering courage and supreme sacrifice remain an enduring inspiration for generations.

“The Armed Forces of Pakistan reaffirm their steadfast resolve to defend the country’s sovereignty and security with the same courage, determination and spirit of sacrifice that he embodied,” the ISPR said.