Rifleman Ishtiyaq Ahmed

In May 1999, after completing its challenging tenure in Siachen, Rfn Ishtiyaq Ahmed's 12 JAK LI Battalion was redeployed to the Batalik sector in Kargil, a critical front during the Kargil War. On June 7, 1999, the battalion was tasked with a high-stakes mission—recapturing Point 5203, a strategically significant position at an altitude of 17,000 feet in the Kargil-Yaldor area. This mission was pivotal for regaining control of the Batalik sector, a key objective in the broader conflict. Captain Amol Kalia, a seasoned mountaineer, was chosen to lead a team of 13 brave soldiers, including Rfn Ishtiyaq Ahmed. The team was airlifted to the area on the first day via helicopter, landing amidst hostile conditions. Despite relentless enemy fire that covered most of the approaches, the soldiers advanced with exceptional determination. Utilizing specialized mountaineering techniques, they scaled the unforgiving terrain, overcoming formidable natural and man-made obstacles.

In the early hours of June 9, 1999, at approximately 3:00 a.m., the team launched a daring assault on the enemy positions under the cover of darkness. The operation faced significant hurdles, as the terrain was treacherous and the enemy positions were heavily fortified. Pakistani forces had entrenched themselves with well-prepared defenses, making progress extremely challenging. However, Rfn Ishtiyaq Ahmed and his comrades exhibited exceptional courage and tenacity, successfully establishing a foothold on the northwestern slopes of Point 5203. Undeterred by the overwhelming odds, Rfn Ishtiyaq Ahmed fought fiercely, exemplifying the highest standards of bravery and dedication to his duty. In this intense combat, Rfn Ishtiyaq Ahmed made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down his life for the nation. The battle at Point 5203 claimed the lives of Rfn Ishtiyaq Ahmed along with his officer Capt Amol Kalia and 9 of his brave comrades, marking one of the heaviest casualties suffered by the Indian Army during the Kargil War. Among the martyred heroes were Hav Rajinder Singh, Nk Pawan Kumar, L/Nk Laykit Ali, L/Nk GH Mohd Khan, Rfn Darshan Lal, Rfn Abdul Salam Dar and Rfn Ravinder Singh. Two more soldiers, Hav Kartar Singh and Rfn Tarsaim Lal, succumbed to their injuries on June 10, 1999. Despite the heavy losses, the recapture of Point 5203 marked a pivotal turning point in the Batalik sector. The bravery and sacrifice of Rifleman Ishtiyaq Ahmed and his comrades played a key role in securing a critical strategic advantage for the Indian forces. Their valiant efforts ensured the reclamation of Indian territory and upheld the nation's honour.