History bears witness to the fact that Pakistani forces continue to fear Sikh soldiers serving in the Indian Army. This fear stems from the legacy of warriors like Baba Banda Singh Bahadur and many others who crushed the Mughal empire with their bravery. Even after India’s independence, whenever Pakistan initiated war against India, they faced defeat at the hands of Sikh soldiers, particularly those from the Sikh Regiment in the Indian Army.
In the 1965 war, there was a time when Pakistan had almost gained the upper hand and was preparing to march towards Delhi. At that moment, Indian Army Chief General Chaudhary ordered Lieutenant Harbaksh Singh, the commander stationed in Punjab, to retreat across the Beas River and defend Ambala to halt the Pakistani advance. However, the Sikh warrior—Harbaksh Singh—who drew inspiration from Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings to stand up and fight the enemy, refused the order. His reasoning was rooted in the recent memory of the Partition, during which the Sikh community had to leave behind their sacred historic shrines like Nankana Sahib (Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birthplace), Panja Sahib, and others in Pakistan. He feared that if the Pakistani army wasn’t stopped then and there, even Shri Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple), Amritsar, could fall out of India’s control. It might come to a point where Sikhs would need a visa to visit Amritsar.
Determined not to let that happen, Lieutenant Harbaksh Singh, with his command, not only fiercely countered the Pakistani army but advanced all the way to Lahore and took control. However, due to political pressures, Indian forces had to withdraw and hand the territory back. Despite this, every time Pakistan challenged India again, Sikh soldiers gave them a befitting reply.
Today, people like Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who promote the Khalistan movement from abroad, are advising Sikh soldiers in the Indian Army not to participate in wars against Pakistan. But perhaps they have no real understanding of the sacrifices Sikhs have made for the honor and pride of this nation. If needed again, Sikh soldiers will be the first to stand in defense of the country.
Pakistan has always supported terrorists, who have carried out attacks not only in India but in other countries as well. In fact, even within Pakistan, these terrorists have at times orchestrated violent incidents. Yet, the Pakistani government continues to support them. Recently, an innocent Indian tourist was killed in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. In response, the Indian government under Prime Minister Modi has taken a firm stand, declaring that such actions will no longer be tolerated, as Pakistan shows no signs of changing. India had warned Pakistan multiple times in the past, but those warnings had little effect.
