Maqbool Sherwani was a
National Conference member who delayed the
invasion of Pashtuns tribesmen from Pakistan in
Baramulla,
Kashmir
Kashmir () is the northernmost geographical region of the Indian subcontinent. Until the mid-19th century, the term "Kashmir" denoted only the Kashmir Valley between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal Range. Today, the term encompas ...
in October 1947.
In this manner, he played an important role in buying time for Indian Army's
Sikh Regiment troops who landed in
Srinagar
Srinagar (English: , ) is the largest city and the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It lies in the Kashmir Valley on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus, and Dal and Anchar lakes. The city is known for its natu ...
once the
accession was accepted.
Sherwani was killed by the tribesmen.
Sherwani was vehemently opposed to the
Muslim League and the concept of Pakistan, and had on 25 July 1944 disrupted a public rally of
Muhammad Ali Jinnah
Muhammad Ali Jinnah (, ; born Mahomedali Jinnahbhai; 25 December 1876 – 11 September 1948) was a barrister, politician, and the founder of Pakistan. Jinnah served as the leader of the All-India Muslim League from 1913 until the ...
in Baramulla.
Sherwani embraced the diverse culture of Baramulla, celebrating its
Religious pluralism. Residents also recount stories that underscore his endeavors to foster unity and religious tolerance.
Role in October 1947
Maqbool spotted tribesmen planning to invade
Kashmir
Kashmir () is the northernmost geographical region of the Indian subcontinent. Until the mid-19th century, the term "Kashmir" denoted only the Kashmir Valley between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal Range. Today, the term encompas ...
. He misguided them to a wrong path when asked to guide them to the road to
Srinagar Airport
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport also known as Srinagar Airport and Budgam Airbase, is an international airport serving Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is owned by the Indian Air Force, and the Airports Autho ...
, thus giving the Indian Army time to land and secure the airport. He was
crucified by the angry rebel forces when they realised that he misguided them to delay their march. Maqbool Sherwani is considered as a hero by
Indian Army.
Legacy
In his memory, at Maqbool Sherwani Auditorium and Mohammad Maqbool Sherwani Memorial in
Baramulla, tributes are paid by Kashmiris and government officials. The
Balidan Stambh monument by
Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry also bears the name of Maqbool Sherwani. Writer
Mulk Raj Anand wrote an account of Maqbool Sherwani's story in his novel, ''Death Of A Hero''. Anand's novel was adapted into an Indian television show, ''Maqbool Ki Vaapsi'', which aired on
DD Kashir in 2011.
See also
*
Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948
*
Instrument of Accession (Jammu and Kashmir)
*
Mohammad Usman
Brigadier Mohammad Usman MVC (15 July 1912 – 3 July 1948) was the highest ranking officer of the Indian Army killed in action during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947. As a Muslim, Usman became a symbol of India's inclusive secularism. At th ...
*
Rajinder Singh (brigadier)
*
Abdul Hamid (soldier)
*
Jammu & Kashmir National Conference
*
Jammu and Kashmir (princely state)#End of the princely state
*
Kashmir conflict#Accession
References
Year of birth missing
1947 deaths
People of the Indo-Pakistani war of 1947
Jammu and Kashmir (princely state)
Kashmir conflict
20th-century Indian Muslims
20th-century Indian people
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