September 8, Victory Day at Khemkaran: Pakistan Army Turned the Tide of the War Within 48 Hours
Islamabad (Web Desk) — September 8, 1965, is remembered for the bravery and remarkable victory of the Pakistan Army on the Khemkaran front. Following an Indian attack launched under the cover of darkness, Pakistani forces delivered a powerful response that turned the tide of the war within just 48 hours, advancing into enemy territory and pushing Indian forces back.
On the Kasur front, Pakistani tanks advanced and overran Indian defensive positions. The Pakistan Army’s 1st Armoured Division engaged India’s 4th Mountain Division in fierce and decisive fighting, inflicting heavy losses on the Indian formation. As a result of relentless Pakistani attacks and substantial casualties, most units of the Indian Mountain Division reportedly fled the battlefield.
The situation became so severe that Indian troops reportedly abandoned their tanks and vehicles in operational condition and fled. The Indian Army suffered such a setback on the front that its corps commanders reportedly recommended to senior authorities that the 4th Mountain Division be completely disbanded.
Following this remarkable and decisive success, the victorious Pakistani forces raised the national flag over the Indian city of Khemkaran. It is noteworthy that during the 1965 Pakistan-India war, Khemkaran was the largest city captured by either side.
Alternative Headlines
- Khemkaran Front: Pakistan Army Secures Remarkable Victory as Indian Troops Flee, Leaving Tanks Behind
- September 8: The Day Pakistani Tanks Overran Indian Defensive Lines on the Kasur Front