Tribute on Martyrdom Day: Major Raja Aziz Bhatti (Shaheed) Remembered

Today, Pakistan commemorates the martyrdom of Major Raja Aziz Bhatti (Nishan-e-Haider), a national hero and one of the greatest soldiers of the Pakistan Army, renowned for his bravery during the 1965 Indo-Pak war.

Born on August 6, 1928, in Hong Kong, Raja Aziz Bhatti’s family settled in Ladian, Gujrat, before the creation of Pakistan. He joined the Pakistan Military Academy on January 21, 1948. In 1950, he was honoured as the best cadet of the first regular course, receiving the Sword of Honour and the Norman Gold Medal for outstanding performance.

Bhatti furthered his military training in Canada in 1952 and served in various key positions from 1957 to 1965. During the 1965 war, he was assigned as a company commander along the BRB Canal, taking responsibility for forward positions (OP) while leading his men with unmatched courage.

Heroism in the 1965 War

Despite severe conditions and continuous enemy attacks, Major Bhatti held his ground for several days, inflicting heavy losses on the opposing forces. On the morning of September 12, 1965, he was struck by enemy fire while assessing enemy movements at the canal and attained martyrdom on the battlefield. His steadfastness prevented the enemy from advancing.

For his unparalleled bravery, Major Aziz Bhatti was posthumously awarded Pakistan’s highest military honour, the Nishan-e-Haider, on March 23, 1966.

Commemorative Events

On this day, floral tributes will be placed at his final resting place, and prayers will be offered in his memory. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Major Bhatti’s courage and sacrifice serve as an enduring example of dedication, faith, and national loyalty.

During the defence of the Burki sector near Lahore, he held the line against continuous enemy assaults for five days and nights, creating a legendary chapter in Pakistan’s military history.