Maulana Fazlur Rehman Questions Pakistan Army Over Kargil War: ‘Who Left Soldiers in Kargil for India to Bury?
A rare public confrontation has emerged in Pakistan after Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticised the country’s powerful military establishment, questioning its handling of the 1999 Kargil War and its role in Pakistan’s political affairs. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Speaking during a recent media interaction, Rehman said experienced political leaders did not need military generals to lecture them on patriotism, national security or the sacrifices made for the country.
“At this age, should someone explain to me what the army is? What the homeland is, what sacrifices for its defence and protection are? Are novices going to explain these things to me?” he said.
His remarks come amid growing tensions between the senior religious leader and Pakistan’s military establishment following recent disagreements over comments relating to martyrs.
đź“… Timeline of the Dispute
1999
│
├── Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan
│
├── Pakistan Army faces long-standing criticism over the conflict
│
├── Recent remarks by Fazlur Rehman on martyrs spark controversy
│
├── Pakistan Army criticises the comments
│
└── Rehman publicly questions the military's policies and authorityKargil War Remarks Revive Old Debate
In one of his strongest criticisms of Pakistan’s military leadership, Rehman referred to the Kargil conflict, questioning the army’s handling of the war.
He asked who had left Pakistani soldiers in Kargil, where many were later buried by India, reviving one of the most sensitive issues in Pakistan’s civil-military history.
His comments are considered significant because public criticism of the Pakistan Army by senior mainstream political and religious leaders has traditionally been uncommon, particularly on national security matters.
Questions Military’s Counter-Terrorism Strategy
Rehman also challenged the military’s approach to counter-terrorism.
He rejected allegations that he had insulted martyrs, saying his comments had been taken out of context.
“There is no aspect of disrespect towards the martyrs in it. God forbid that we would even think of such things.”
He further argued that ordinary Pakistanis were increasingly questioning the military’s security policies.
“If the army claims they are fighting terrorism, then go among the public. Questions are being raised there about their policies and strategy.”
‘Gun Politics Is Un-Islamic’
Defending his party’s record, Rehman said JUI-F had consistently opposed violence in politics.
He stated that his party had repeatedly declared the use of weapons for political purposes to be against Islamic teachings.
According to Rehman, there is broad agreement among several Islamic scholars and religious organisations in Pakistan against armed political movements.
He also said that many members and senior scholars of his party had lost their lives in terrorist attacks over the past several years.
đź“Š Key Issues Raised by Fazlur Rehman
| Issue | Rehman’s Position |
|---|---|
| Kargil War | Questioned the army’s handling of the conflict |
| Military’s Political Role | Said generals should not lecture politicians |
| Counter-Terrorism Policy | Called for greater public accountability |
| Gun Politics | Described armed politics as un-Islamic |
| Martyrs | Denied showing any disrespect |
Strongest Challenge to Military Authority
Rehman made it clear that neither he nor his party intended to retreat from their criticism.
He said political issues should be debated openly and rejected accusations made against his party.
In one of his strongest remarks, he questioned the military’s authority to instruct politicians on matters of patriotism and public service.
“Who are they to teach us politics, teach us love for the homeland, or teach us the value and respect of martyrs?”
Political Significance
The exchange marks one of the most visible public disagreements between Pakistan’s military establishment and a senior religious leader in recent months.
The controversy has also renewed debate over the relationship between Pakistan’s civilian political leadership and the military, particularly on issues involving national security, governance and counter-terrorism.
