Pakistan Army on Tuesday released the official details of military and civilian casualties sustained during the recent confrontation with India, now commemorated as Marka-e-Haq — a term marking what the government has described as a decisive defensive operation.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), 11 soldiers embraced martyrdom while defending the country, and 78 personnel were injured in the line of duty during 'Operation Bunyan-un-Marsus', in response to Indian aggression on May 6 and 7.
The ISPR revealed that among the martyrs were six army personnel and five air force officials. Those who laid down their lives for the homeland include Naik Abdul Rehman, Naik Waqar Khalid, Lance Naik Dilawar Khan, Ikramullah, Sepoy Adeel Akbar, and Sepoy Nisar.
Pakistan Air Force also suffered significant losses. Squadron Leader Usman Yousuf, Chief Technician Aurangzeb, Senior Technician Najeeb, Senior Technician Mubashir, and Corporal Technician Farooq were named among the martyrs.
In addition to the military casualties, the Indian Army’s unprovoked shelling across the Line of Control led to heavy civilian losses. According to the ISPR statement, 40 civilians, including seven women and 15 children, lost their lives, while 121 others — among them 27 children and 10 women — were injured.
“The martyrs are the pride of the nation. Their sacrifice will always be remembered. We pray for the swift recovery of all injured,” said the ISPR spokesperson. “The nation stands resolute in the face of aggression. There should be no ambiguity about Pakistan’s determination.”
National observances announced
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a televised address on Monday, declared May 10 to be observed annually as Marka-e-Haq Day, in recognition of what he termed a “glorious chapter in Pakistan’s defence history.”
He said the date symbolises the exceptional courage, sacrifice, and professional excellence demonstrated by the armed forces in defending the country against Indian hostilities.
“The professional capabilities of our brave forces have made the entire nation proud,” the prime minister said.
In addition, May 16 has been declared as a ‘Day of Gratitude’ to mark the nation’s success on the defence front. “Special prayers will be held across the country on that day to thank Almighty Allah and to pray for the strength, unity, and prosperity of our beloved homeland,” Mr Sharif announced.
Relief package for victims
The prime minister also unveiled a relief and compensation package for the families of the martyrs and civilians affected by the recent conflict. He assured the nation that the state “will never abandon its heroes.”
Without disclosing specific figures, the prime minister’s office stated that the package would include financial compensation, housing benefits, and educational support for the children of martyrs.
“Pakistan stands united in grief, pride, and resolve. Our response to aggression is not only a demonstration of military strength, but also of national solidarity,” the prime minister concluded.
The developments come amid heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Diplomatic channels have remained largely silent, while the Foreign Office has urged the international community to take note of the human cost of the recent hostilities.
