In a poignant and heartfelt ceremony held on May 1, 2025, Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, honored the extraordinary bravery of Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a local hero who laid down his life protecting tourists during the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley on April 22. The event marked a solemn tribute to Adil’s sacrifice, with Dr. Andrabi presenting an appointment letter to Nazakat Ahmad Shah, Adil’s brother, along with a posthumous Bravery Award to the martyr himself.
A Hero’s Final Stand Against Terror
On that fateful day, as terrorists unleashed indiscriminate gunfire on innocent tourists visiting the picturesque Baisaran meadows, Syed Adil Hussain Shah emerged as a beacon of courage and selflessness. Despite being unarmed and outnumbered, Adil confronted the attackers with unparalleled valor, attempting to shield the helpless visitors from the hail of bullets. Eyewitnesses recall his desperate struggle to wrestle a rifle from one of the terrorists, a heroic act that ultimately cost him his life but saved many others.
Adil sustained multiple gunshot wounds – two in the chest, one in the neck, and another in the arm – as well as bruises from the fierce hand-to-hand combat. His sacrifice was not just a moment of bravery but a testament to the indomitable spirit of Kashmir’s youth, who continue to rise against the tide of terror with unwavering resolve.
Honoring the Legacy
Recognizing the magnitude of Adil’s sacrifice and the hardship faced by his family, Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi took a decisive step to support them. In her address, she emphasized that combating terrorism requires more than words; it demands meaningful action that uplifts the families of those who pay the ultimate price. By offering employment to Nazakat Ahmad Shah through the Waqf Board, she ensured that the martyr’s family receives both financial stability and societal recognition.
“This is not just a job appointment; it is a symbol of our collective respect and gratitude for Syed Adil Hussain’s unparalleled bravery,” Dr. Andrabi remarked. “His legacy will inspire generations to come, reminding us all that courage and sacrifice are the true pillars of peace.”
Political Leaders and Community Stand in Solidarity
The ceremony witnessed the presence of senior BJP leaders, including BJP President Sat Sharma, who lauded the Waqf Board’s compassionate gesture. “The Waqf Board has set a precedent with this noble act, demonstrating genuine respect for the sacrifices made by our martyrs,” Sharma said. The event was a powerful display of unity and resolve among political and community leaders to stand firmly against terrorism and support victims’ families.
A Family’s Gratitude Amid Grief
Nazakat Ahmad Shah, while still grappling with the loss of his beloved brother, expressed profound gratitude for the support extended by the Waqf Board and the broader community. “My brother was a protector, not just of tourists but of the spirit of Kashmir itself,” he said. “This recognition and assistance bring solace to our family and reaffirm that Adil’s sacrifice is not forgotten.”
The Broader Impact: Inspiring Courage in Kashmir
The tragic attack in Pahalgam shocked the nation and the world. Yet, amid the sorrow, Syed Adil Hussain’s heroism shines as a powerful narrative of hope and resistance. His story has become a rallying cry for peace and resilience in Kashmir, inspiring countless individuals to stand against violence and uphold humanity.
The Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board’s initiative, under Dr. Andrabi’s leadership, serves as a beacon of compassion and justice. It underscores the importance of honoring those who confront terror with bravery and ensuring their families are supported in tangible, meaningful ways.
Spirit of Kashmir’s Brave Hearts
Syed Adil Hussain Shah’s sacrifice transcends the tragedy of that dark day in Baisaran Valley. It embodies the spirit of Kashmir’s brave hearts who, in the face of terror, choose courage over fear, selflessness over safety. The appointment of his brother Nazakat Ahmad Shah by the Waqf Board is a testament to the enduring respect and gratitude that society holds for such heroes. As Kashmir continues to navigate its complex challenges, stories like Adil’s remind us all of the power of bravery, sacrifice and solidarity in the quest for peace.
