Service No : 9101337X

Place of birth : Kupwara Dist (J&K)

Service : Army

Last Rank : Rifleman

Unit : 12 JAK LI

Arm/Regt : The JAK Light Infantry

Operation : Op Vijay ( Kargil )

Martyrdom : May 18, 1999

Rifleman S Hussain Kalgon

Rifleman Showkat Hussain Kalgon hailed from Tumana village, located in Handwara tehsil of Kupwara district in Jammu and Kashmir. Born and raised in a region known for its rich cultural heritage, resilient spirit, and deep-rooted ties to the armed forces, Rfn Kalgon exemplified courage, dedication, and an unwavering sense of duty throughout his life. Inspired by the legacy of valour and sacrifice that defines many families in the region, Rfn Kalgon chose the path of military service and joined the Indian Army. He was enrolled in the 12th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (12 JAK LI), a unit celebrated for its bravery, professionalism, and outstanding service in various operations. The JAK LI Regiment, composed largely of soldiers from Jammu and Kashmir, is not only a reflection of the region’s martial traditions but also a beacon of national integration and loyalty.

 

Kargil War (Battle of Point 5203- Batalik Sector) : May 1999

 

In May 1999, as the Kargil War erupted, the Indian Army swiftly mobilized to counter the intrusion of Pakistani forces who had clandestinely occupied strategic peaks along the Line of Control. One of the units redeployed to confront this threat was the 12th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (12 JAK LI). The battalion had just returned from a physically exhausting tenure at the icy heights of Siachen and was now thrust into yet another unforgiving battleground—the Batalik sector of Kargil. Among the most crucial and challenging objectives in the Batalik region was Point 5203, a formidable 17,000-foot-high peak located in the Kargil-Yaldor area. The peak’s extreme altitude, treacherous terrain, and fortified enemy positions made it a vital but deadly target. Regaining control over it was essential to disrupt enemy supply lines and restore territorial integrity. Captain Amol Kalia was entrusted with leading a daring mission to recapture Point 5203. A handpicked group of brave soldiers, including Rifleman Showkat Hussain Kalgon, was assembled for this high-stakes operation. Before the assault, the team underwent rigorous training in mountain warfare to prepare for the brutal conditions awaiting them.

 

As part of the mission, the soldiers were air-dropped by helicopter into the rugged and hostile terrain. From that moment, they embarked on a grueling and perilous journey toward the enemy-held peak. Rifleman Showkat Hussain Kalgon distinguished himself in the preparation phase with his commendable bravery, discipline, and unyielding spirit. On May 18, 1999, during one of the fiercest engagements of the operation, Rifleman Kalgon made the supreme sacrifice, laying down his life in the service of the nation. Tragically, just weeks later, on June 09, 1999, Captain Amol Kalia and nine of his comrades also fell in battle, having fought with unmatched valour to achieve their mission. Their courage and commitment were instrumental in the eventual success of the operation, which resulted in the recapture of Point 5203. The victory at Point 5203 was a turning point in the Batalik sector and a significant blow to the enemy’s strategic position. It underscored the indomitable spirit of the Indian soldiers and highlighted the extraordinary bravery of those who gave their lives for the nation. Alongside heroes like Captain Amol Kalia, Rifleman Showkat Hussain Kalgon embodied the highest ideals of courage, honour, and patriotism. 

 

Rfn Showkat Hussain Kalgon is survived by his mother Smt Sayara Bano.

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