AN ANONYMOUS REAPPRAISAL OF THE

REVOLUTION AT GILGIT (1ST NOVEMBER

1947)

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 Mirza Hassan Khan can be spotted in this World War II battlefield in Burma

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AN ANONYMOUS REAPPRAISAL OF THE that he was willingly timely posted to Gilgit was now reading. Limbuwala logged a message
REVOLUTION AT GILGIT (1ST NOVEMBER Scouts in service of Maharaja of Kashmir. On to Peshawar Major Brown had been put under
1947) THROUGH REVIEW OF MAJOR July 29, 1947, he arrived in Gilgit as arrest and the situation was very sad.” He has
WILLIAM ALEXANDER BROWN’S BOOK Commandant Gilgit Scouts. From the above, it very articulately manifested his second arrest
“THE GILGIT REBELLION- 1947” becomes crystal clear that he was a very trusted and deportation. However, Brown was
intelligence asset of the British thinktanks successful in sidetracking the revolution by
HAVING FOUND A copy of the subject
dealing with their forward policy and was giving a false impression to the Government of
anonymous 'Reappraisal of the Gilgit
planted for the implementation of their plans. Pakistan.
Revolution,1947' in the course of a
Among the participant military officers of the
casual rummaging through this scribe’s tidbits After his deportation from Gilgit in January
breathtaking events of the ‘Gilgit Revolution’,
file, it is taken verbatim for the information of 1948, he was transferred to the Frontier
Major Mirza Hassan Khan (MC) was the senior-
the readers for a dispassionate ‘evaluation’ in Constabulary where he served for two years. In
most with Lieutenancy seniority of August 1938,
order to collate facts and test the veracity of this capacity, he again endeavored to enter
from Indian Military Academy Dehradun.
various versions contained therein. It precisely Gilgit region through Kishn Ganga Valley
begins with: ‘William Alexander Brown was born Quite interestingly, Major Brown treats him as during the War of Liberation but turned back
on December 22, 1922 who was enlisted in the his junior in his book which ipso facto appears after knowing that Hassan Khan was the Sector
army and somewhere in 1942, was short- to be a twisting of facts. Keeping in view the Commander there. In July 1948, William Brown
course-commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant from facts that at this point of time accounts of all was awarded the MBE (Military) by the British
Officer Cadet Training Unit Bangalore, India. He the important characters of that turbulent time Government with an ‘unspecific citation’ of
was immediately transferred to the Frontier are available for corroboration and that Major which he himself admits. Thereafter, he served
Corps of Scouts and Militias where he served in Brown was technically drawing salary from the in Pakistan under many covered appointments
South Waziristan Scouts and became proficient coffers of Maharaja Kashmir, it is amply proved till 1959 when he returned to the United
in Pushto. In early 1943, Brown was posted to that he tried his level best to sabotage the Kingdom. He died on December 5, 1984.
Gilgit Agency for a period of three years. During revolution and voids in the true story of this
Tempering of the Autobiography:
this tenure, he had also served as Assistant historic happening are filled in by the
Political Agent at Chilas. While in Gilgit Agency, revelations of this book. Beyond doubt, he will This aspect can be gauged from the fact that
he became fully conversant with Shina be remembered as the Lawrence of Gilgit- this privately produced and not intended for
language and also fairly picked up Burushiski. In Baltistan – a personality he much eulogized and commercial distribution book published in the
1946, he was posted to Chitral as Commandant idealized. year 1998 i.e., fourteen years after the death of
Scouts. He unwitting lay admits that while en Major Brown. This book stated to be based on
During the upheavals of the Revolution, he was
route to Chitral in June, consultations on the a carbon copy after loss of two diaries and some
twice arrested by Major Hassan Khan. Of the
impending decision of Viceroy Lord omissions, is in actual terms, a thorough
first arrest he admits by stating “The latter
Mountbatten to hand back Gilgit Agency to templation of events, veering off the aims of
persuaded the gullible Babar to send the note I
Dogra regime on August 1, 1947, were held and Revolution and abrasion of facts to suit deep
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rooted British interests. There are also He displays no love for Islam; rather fuels appointment being canceled. Again here, his
variations in Major Brown’s book now produced sectarianism and in his first report to the real motives are sufficiently unveiled by his
and his reports on précis of events forwarded at Government of Pakistan after revolution admission of hectic efforts in Chilas, Gilgit and
that time. There is a cover up in the wake of the spatters and casts sectarian aspersions on the Gupis to obtain oath of loyalty to Maharaja of
general awareness and breadth of outlook of members of the freedom movement. In his first Kashmir on Qur’an from all and sundry of
the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and most of it report to the Government of Pakistan, just after Scouts. The afterthought narration that it was
contains cooked up stories and deformation of the critical Revolution and before the long- done by using a covered Oxford English
truth. With the depth of knowledge, it is very drawn war with India, he does not mention even dictionary is again indicative of labyrinthed
easy to pick up lies from concocted narrations a word about the looming Indian dangers and portrayals. Anyhow, he mentions that a
and indeed this book further confirms the facts, spends all his energies in brandishing the concerned (who they can be?) were very
discards certain assumptions and brings to light leaders of the Revolution and war as potentially pleased, especially the Governor when he
many lies. In this context, it is interesting to note dangerous being independent-minded. About reported to him about oaths at lunch time. Then
that at an important juncture after the Bunji the Gilgit Scouts to whom the book is in the evening, he went out fishing with
Garrison fell to Hassan Khan, Brown writes: accredited, he rates them as a polo pony with Jamedar Shah Khan, feeling quite at peace with
“Jamadar Shah Khan had arrived from Gilgit. I broken leg as compared with 6J&K Battalion the world. Another important omission which
had called him purposely to act as Aide-de- and maintains it to be the height of folly to use Brown or his benefactors has mad while
Camp to the Marshal. The latter was much the Scouts in direct confrontation with Indian appreciating the pre-accession situation in this
flattered and thanked me profusely.” regular troops and away from the Agency. He very chapter is Brown’s statement, “If Kashmir
further blemishes them to be fully involved in acceded to India then my fealty would be with
Brown’s Mission and Motives:
the Gilgit looting and asks from the that dominion.” MAJOR BROWN’S or his
Major Brown oaths all the Muslim officers and Government of Pakistan for the first time to lay benefactors claim that only he, alongwith
JCOs. He scorns locals for their under- a colonial precedent of deploying Frontier Captain Mathison was instrumental in the
developed intellectual talents, factional Constabulary. liberation of Gilgit-Baltistan by putting into
differences and terms Shinaki tribes as operation their well thought out “Operation
As stated in Chapter-2 of the book, Major
degraded Pathans. He has described Major Datta Khel” into practice at an opportune
Brown and his choicest Jock i.e Captain
Hassan Khan as a self-proclaimed Field Marshal, moment through intuitional twitching is totally
Mathieson were serving on a private contract
hates unreliable Captain Saeed at first sight. absurd and concocted. He manifests that the
with the Maharaja of Kashmir on a mutually
Lieutenant Haider terms Brown as a dirty fish, intuition was felt when his adjutant Lieutenant
agreed term of service, until the transition from
Brown opines Captain Mohammad Khan to be Haider turned up and declared that the time
British to Kashmir had been affected gradually.
lacking brains, proclaims untrustworthy has come for action.
In the same chapter, Brown admits of ordering
Subedar Major Babar Khan to be having a
Captain Saeed Durrani to proceed to Chilas and In actual fact, Major Brown was in constant
gullible foolish nature and declares Raja Shah
ensuring his getting a very tough time there, so touch through Parsi Wireless operator
Rais Khan to be the laughable Nawab of Gilgit.
as to nullify the possibility of Mathison’s Limbuwala with Lieutenant Colonel Bacon,
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Political Agent Khaiber, Sir George system, employed in their coined ‘Great Game’ promoted to the rank of Major in 1943 during
Cunningham, Governor General NWFP and of the Highlands of Central Asia. Second World War. He was promoted to the
General Sir Douglas Gracey, the Commander- rank of Lieutenant Colonel during the war of
Though partially successful in his mission in the
in-Chief of the Pakistan Army. This can be liberation, through a proper notification of
initial stages of the Gilgit Revolution by veering
clearly pieced together through an assiduous Azad Force Headquarters, working under GHQ
it on unwanted lines, he was fully successful in
study of the book. “Data Khel” was a master Rawalpindi. Major Brown and his cronies have
containing the war effort and freedom of the
plan aiming at compete sabotage and revolved done all what was possible to belittle and
people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He was indeed, an
around movement of Sikh troops of 6th J&K disfigure him. The following quotes from the
intelligence professional of the caliber of T.E.
Regiment to Gilgit to quell impending book are interesting: “Whatever Hassan’s
Lawrence about whom he writes in chapter-1 of
disturbance, as evident from Major Brown’s failings were, one could not help admiring his
his book: “I am not a hero-worshiper but a man
asking for non-Muslim troops North of Indus original initiative.” “Little did I know then that
I have always admired as really great is T.E.
from Governor. This action was to be there would be times later when we would
Lawrence. If circumstances demanded it, I felt I
synchronized with the movement of Scouts gladly have buried a knife in each other’s
could do in Gilgit what that famous leader had
from Chilas by Mathieson to burn Pratab and bellies.” “This, therefore, was the last time I ever
done in Arabia. As will be seen later, I very
Ramghat bridges in order to completely isolate believed a word of Mirza Hassan’s or relied on
nearly succeeded but at the critical moment, at
Muslim element under Major Hassan Khan (MC) him to any extent whatsoever.” “Hassan started
the approach of the climax when years of
in Bunji and liquidation of the displaced Scouts talking in his usual perfect English and I
endeavor and preparation were about to be put
in Jaglote. Luckily, his plans were foiled by gathered he was addressing me. “Now, Major
to the test, I was checked; but I was supremely
Hassan Khan when he moved along with his Brown, we are very grateful for the help you
confident would be successful, i was checked;
Delta Company to Gilgit, instead of Sikhs. As gave us last night. But you must understand
but i was so sure of ultimate victory that I did
Major Brown was not able to communicate with that this blow and all succeeding blows are
not feel frustrated but merely rather sorry for
Mathieson about the new developments, he being struck in the name of Islam, and since you
those who would have benefited from it.”
undertook a very hazardous and expeditious are a non-Muslim,
Brown’s loathing, scorns and connivance:
secret trip to Juglote to coordinate the we regret that we
Ensuing are the views and comments of the
amendments in ‘Datakhel’. The Englishman’s cannot allow you
Commandant of Gilgit Scouts along with
secretive motives become obvious from the fact to join our
collating facts about the important
that afterward as an advisor to the glorious band of
personalities of the Gilgit Revolution:
Commander-in-Chief, he did not disclose to Ghazis and take
Hassan about the burning of bridges even at Major Hassan Khan (MC): part in our Jehad.
the most critical juncture of the attack on vital This, of course,
He was the flag-bearer of the Revolution who
Bunji Garrison. There can be no denying the fact applies to
twice arrested Major Brown for his nefarious
that Major Brown was an extremely high caliber Captain A view of Mirza's face late in
conspiracies in line with those of Gen Gracey. life (1983)
Intelligence Officer of the British Intelligence Mathieson as
He was four years senior to Brown and was
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well.” “And now Mirza Hassan, in a sudden burst It is confirmed that he had played no role in the over Gilgit Scouts. About him, Brown writes: “I
of wild oratory, proceeded to emulate Hitler in initial phase of Revolution, as he arrived only a immediately summed Saeed up as potentially
one of his more vociferous moments.” “Having day earlier than the D Day i.e, 1st November unreliable and a man who would have to be
reached some way out of Gilgit he halted. He 1947 and that too with all his family members. watched carefully”. In the context of
removed badges of rank from his shoulders and The only mention of him in this book is of his fragmenting Hassan’s colleagues, he writes
replaced them with those of a General.” “Mirza arrest by Hassan Khan to elude his influence about him, “You are going to Kalandarchi, and
Hassan jumped up, General’s badges flashing. over Muslim elements of J&K Regiment. Major you will leave tomorrow morning without fail”,
“I shall be in it as Commander-in-Chief. I shall Brown mentions, “My name’s Ehsan Ali. I think I ordered calmly, though possessed with a great
be Field Marshal and control all troops in the you are Major Brown. Most awfully glad to meet desire to punch him on the end of his long
area, we shall be called the Gilgit Azad (Free) you, old boy. Always been wanting to. A bit nose. Captain Mohammad Khan Jarral: He was
Forces. There will also be a president, a Chief of thick, this business, isn’t it? It soon dawned on a Scout officer and a colleague of Hassan in the
Military Staff, a Commissioner and a Chief of me who he was. He was one of the local Nagar pan to overthrow Dogra regime. About him he
Police.” Mirza Hassan then returned to Bunji. He lads who had gone off to seek his fortune and writes, “Mohammad Khan was small, cheerful
paraded his Azad Forces and produced a Holy had done well for himself in the State Forces, I and bouncy. An ex-ranker, he was not over
Qur’an, He informed them that they would gathered that Mirza Hassan had put him under blessed with brains, but he looked on life with a
swear an oath that they would march to Gilgit arrest, evidently seeing in him a possible rival carefree, happy attitude.” He further mentions
under him and liquidate Mohammad Alam, for Commander-in-Chief. However, opened that Lt Haider told him in a slightly tipsy
Mathieson and myself. To a man they refused. custody seemed to me to be the appropriate mumble that he is not interested in politics and
Completely frustrated, Hassan gave up the answer at the moment, with the Nagar situation his main object in life is sleeping with women.
struggle. The fun would start in the spring. so tricky, so I made no effort to release him. He In the context of scattering Hassan’s colleagues,
Except for one small picquet at Juglote, to might be useful later. “Look here, old boy, “I he writes, “A brainwave struck me. Why not get
which the activities of Mirza Hassan across the said, “as you can see, I am up to the eyes in rid of Mohammad Khan by having him posted
river, I withdrew all the outlying picquets. He work. Do you mind very much taking Colonel to Bunji? I would ensure that the order one
then wrung Jock and me by the hand and burst Majid into the garden here – and waiting half would be Mohammad Khan from Gilgit by hook
out: “Major Brown, I have conquered Bunji, an hour or so until I can straighten your affair or by crook. This was a Heaven-sent
tomorrow, I shall march on Kashmir. In a week, out,” “Not at all, not at all, always glad to help. opportunity to get rid of Mohammad Khan, but
I shall have captured Srinagar, and shall be No chance of a beer, I supposed? I’m bloody it was necessary to show no eagerness which
sitting on the throne in the palace of Maharaja. well parched after that journey.” Captain Saeed might arouse suspicion.”
I shall make military history. I shall save the Durrani: It is proved that beside Subedar Major
Lt. Haider:
Muslims of Kashmir from the extinction by the Babar Khan, he was the most trusted ally of
Hindus.” Hassan Khan. In fact, he was Hassan’s Deputy in He was acting as adjutant of Gilgit Scouts and
the Secret Revolutionary Council. He came to was cultivated by Major Hassan Khan in his pan
Major Ehsan Ali:
Gilgit along with Brig Ghansara Singh to take for the liberation of Gilgit-Baltistan. It is very

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interesting to know views of both about each him: “I liked Haider on first sight.” Then “That Haider jumped to his feet. “You can count me
other. Lt Haider’s diary of that period states, evening Haider attempted to pump my out of this. I’m for Pakistan.” And with that he
“Brown arrested by Hassan on 1st November sentiments from me but I played the neutral left the room. “We’ll fix you later, you traitor” I
but released on my insistence. He remained observer and showed him the political situation shouted Hassan. But Hassan had managed to
ineffective till Muslim officers ruled Gilgit, but in the light of a comic opera. He laughed much convince some of the other members that this
started showing his colors once Pakistani and drank more than was good for him. I had was a sound pan. Subedar Major Babar Khan:
Political Agent Sardar Alam came into the grown to like him very much but the time was The true greatness of Babar Khan be
arena. He was a cunning person who was able far from ripe when I could lay my cards on the ascertained by placing him in the correct
to convince the new administration about his table.” In another portion of the book he perspective, which in short was siding with
vital role in the liberation of Gilgit, impress the mentions, “But which side was Haider on? I Hassan Khan for the overthrow of the Dogra
know that his family and his property were in yoke of slavery, despite numerous pulls and
Srinagar. If he joined the rebels, he would lose pressures which he was personally subjected to.
everything; his family would be imprisoned, Hassan Khan’s dynamic personality, his political
probably quietly liquidated and all his nature i.e, he was the founder of the first
possessions would be forfeited. Was it not political party of Gilgit-Baltistan, his anti-
possible, therefore, that he supported the establishment stance and his later
Maharaja and was now acting for the Governor involvement/imprisonment in Rawalpindi
in attempting to ascertain my sentiments? On conspiracy case; provided an opportunity to the
the other hand, he was a Muslim, and as such establishment as well as his enemies and
should naturally side with Pakistan. I therefore opportunists to belittle his achievements
gave a guarded reply.” Haider answers Brown through a tangled web of lies. They initially tried
in these words, “I am not mixed up in this to blow Babar Khan out of proportion and when
Dogra Governor Brig. Ghansara Singh surrendering to
Major Babar Khan from Gilgit Scouts, 1 Nov 1947
business of Mirza Hassan’s at all,” he said. “I it became impossible due to incoming flow of
Gilgit. have pretended I was uptill now to prevent information and harmful for their own interest;
local rulers of his importance and ensured difficulties, but I’m not really. I’m not, I’m not, I they raised the bogey of Major Brown. It is
ouster of Muslim officers.” His diary further assure you, Sir. All I want to see is Gilgit a part pertinent to mention that Babar was bitterly
states, “Major Brown was a dirty fish – my of Pakistan. I don’t want any bloodshed. I admit against Brown and use to complaint against
mistakes- at the start of revolt I had good we used to hold secret meetings before the him to Hassan and has claimed that he arrested
opinion about him. He had given false revolt. I admit that everything was planned as Brown before moving up to arrest Governor
impression in Pakistan. Cunning Brown thinks you heard this afternoon. But my heart was not Ghansara. The under-mentioned extracts about
of me to be an obstruction in his way. I told in it”; Needless to say, Hassan was well Babar Khan from various points of Brown’s
Khan Qayyum, Chief Minister of NWFP about supported by Saeed during this speech. When book clearly indicate towards afore-mentioned
him.” On the other hand, Brown writes about Hassan had announced this plan. Ghulam assertion: - At the very initial stages of his return

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to Gilgit i.e chapter-2, he writes, “I kept Babar It is important to note that Baber Khan could make me empty the magazine completely. This
behind when the others left, and had a straight have been led astray by none other than Hassan was very suspicious.” While describing the
talk with him. He and I had never been the best Khan. While assessing various personalities in event of the arrest of the Governor Brig
of friends and had many differences of opinion the wake of the gathering storm, he writes, Ghansara Singh, he humiliates Baber by writing,
on Scout and political matters, I therefore told “Subedar Major Baber Khan I also did not trust, “When the Scouts in the garden had completed
him straight that we had a difficult time ahead but nothing could be done about it. Any a small drill movement of right dressing and
of us and the only way to succeed was for both attempt to get rid of him would give grounds standing at ease, Babar and Jamedar Shah
of us to bury the hatchet and start afresh in for grave suspicion, and might have regrettable Sultan of Nagir drew their pistols and entered
friendship and cooperation. He agreed and we consequences. He would have to stay.” About the house. As they crossed the threshold, the
reached an understanding.” About their Baber’s docile nature, he sarcastically writes, “I Dogra orderly flashed a torch on them and the
demands to be presented to Governor Brig would then be subjected to a futile hour of, Governor let fly with his rifle. Fortunately for
Ghansara Singh, he writes, “This rather took the “Whatever you think best Sahib, of course them he missed. Baber and Shah Sultan then
wind out of the Indian officers’ sails. Discussions Sahib, very difficult Sahib, God knows Sahib” took to their heels and must have broken all
and clarifications now took place on the points and so on, concluding with a long winded records for the hundred yards in a prudent dash
included in the petition, and from the ignorance account of the loyal services of his grandfather, for the safety of the garden.” “Baber is simply a
displayed by most of the Indian officers, I father and he himself had rendered to the gullible fool”, Haider replied “Hassan”, Haider
rapidly came to the conclusion that the whole British. went on, is merely using Baber as a tool, just as
matter had been concocted by Baber himself he is using Shah Rais too. Baber has been
and a few chosen cronies without reference promised the post of Assistant Commander-in-
either to the other officers or to the rank and In the context of arresting Governor, he writes, Chief. Hassan knows that Baber has complete
file. This lack of unity meant there was little “Why I did not carry out this order myself or control over the Gilgit and Nagir platoons in the
danger of an issue being forced so I ceased to sent Haider rather than entrusting the job to the event of a showdown, so he is out to keep Baber
worry.” I know I had complete control over six Subedar Major? Well there are several reasons. happy at the moment. The same with Shah Rais
platoons of the Scouts and could make them Firstly, I did not yet entirely trust Baber or any Khan, who has influence over the subdivision
obey my will, whatever it might be. These were of the Nagir Scouts, which follows, of course mob. Hassan will use these two until he has set
the three Hunza platoons, the Punial platoon, because the later were completely under his himself up as Military Governor of the whole
the Kuh Ghizar platoon and the Yasin platoon. I influence. In my opinion as of that time, they Agency and Wazarat, and he will then throw
had no faith in the three Nagir platoons. They were as likely to side with the Maharaja’s cause them away like old gloves. But both are such
were in the power of the Subedar Major, who if as that of Pakistan.” “I had also noticed that idiots they cannot see this.” “When our pipes
led astray by others, through his gullible nature when I was allotting reserve ammunition to the were lit, we attempted to draw out Baber and
might do any foolish act. The Gilgit platoon was, platoon proceeding to Bhoop Singh Pari, Baber Muzaffar, by making them do some straight
I thought, unreliable and might do anything.” had urged me to issue an amount vastly in talking regarding the situation and their
excess of that required. In fact, he had tried to intentions. They were both extremely reticent

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but this, I think, was due to their inability to was cultivated for the cause of independence Confirmations, Creation of Smokescreen
reach a decision on their future course of action and was stationed at Chilas. In actual fact he and Loopholes:
rather than an attempt to hide anything. This was dismissed from service by Major Brown,
Major Brown’s book is an extremely valuable
much I did gather that Muzaffar was entirely who cleverly writes about him, “The resignation
book in the sense that it provides answers to
loyal to both of us and had absolutely no time of the Nagir Platoon Commander, Subedar Jan
many unresolved conspiracies and fills in the
for Mirza Hassan and his United States of Gilgit. Alam, was significant in itself. He refused to give
voids of the compete logical story-building of
Obviously, this was the bone of contention any reasons for this resignation except for the
the initial and most vital days of the Revolution
between the two brothers.” About Baber’s lame excuse of a bad leg. But obviously foresaw
at Gigit. Furthermore, it fully authenticates the
promotion which he arranged, he writes, “The trouble in which he had no wish to take part.”
account of Mirza Hassan Khan given in his book
ulterior and unofficial motive of the promotion The discontentment of the Scouts at Chilas can
“Shamsher say Zanjeer Tak”. Major Brown’s
was that it closed the door to Baber, against any be gauged from this quotation from the book,
book is, in actual fact, an exceptionally high
possibility, however sight, of using his “The telegram was addressed to the Governor,
intelligence work formulated at this point of the
undeniable influence over the Nagir and the office of the origin was Chilas. It read,
time by taking into account what al information
contingent, and the folk of the subdivision, to Unless Subedar Jan Alam reinstated as our
on the subject is already available to the
create trouble. Henceforth, as a responsible Platoon commander immediately, accept
general public, with the intention of still bluffing
officer holding a Pakistan Commission, he was resignation of whole platoon – stop (Signed)
the Government of Pakistan, appeasing Indians
morally bound to support Mohammad Alam in No.10 Platoon, Nagar.” Brown was highly
and further enhancing the designs of Anglo-
every way. The result fulfilled my every prejudiced towards Nagiris i.e Babar Khan and
American axis; ironically at the cost of the
expectation.” About an important Juncture after had a soft corner for Shah Khan and his people
suffering masses of Gilgit-Baltistan, for whose
the arrival Pakistan Political Agent, he writes, as evident from the display of attitude while
betterment his only suggestion is an alien rue
“The conference ended in a private interview carrying out recruitment, “I appointed the
with iron hand. The numerous revelations of
with Subedar Major Baber Khan in which the PA vacancies as follows, tentatively. On paper,
this book are grouped together under suitable
pointed out to him in front of the Mirs how Hunza and Nagir were to provide 250 recruits
headings in the succeeding paragraphs: -
foolish he had been behaving in allying with each. In actual fact, I would work it so that
About various customary demands which were
himself with Captain Hassan and that he must Hunza provided 300 and Nagir 200 by
put across to Brig Ghansara Singh, the newly
control his gullible nature and appreciate discarding 50 of the latter as physically
arrived Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan, he writes, “I
situations properly in discerning between right unsound, which would not be difficult. On the
scanned through the list. The requests (as I
and wrong. He was admonished to return to his other hand, I could rely on the Mir of Hunza to
called them) were with regard to the
post as Subedar Major immediately and to provide 300 of the best fighting types available
betterment of conditions of service. Some were
refrain from meddling in other affairs.” Subedar in Central Asia.” Wireless operator Mr
reasonable and some were utter nonsense. But
Jan Alam: The first casualty of Brown among Limbuwala was a very special and significant
the important thing was that it was obvious that
Hassan Khan’s colleagues was Subedar Jan ally of Brown.
the Scouts were endeavoring to get as much as
Alam. He was the first among the Scouts, who

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they possibly could out of the Kashmir kotes, once they were in their possession, the the telephone with Captain Mirza Hassan Khan
Government. Scout would be no more use than a polo pony in Bunji.They were unable to give me details of
with a broken leg.” While analyzing various the theme of these talks, however. So I summed
Now, if at that period the Scouts had intended
factors during his appreciation of the situation up the situation as follows. There would shortly
to revolt in three month’s time against the
during ‘The Gathering Storm’ phase, Brown be a revolt in the Gilgit Province in favour of
Kashmir regime, it is most unlikely that they
writes about Hassan Khan’s 6th Kashmir Pakistan. The revolt be led by the Scouts backed
would have submitted these requests, most of
Infantry, “The 6th Kashmir Infantry was the by the Muslim element of the 6th Kashmir
which are in connection with long term benefits
greatest factor in the whole enterprise. The Infantry.” Even a cursory reading of “The
such as pensions and gratuities.” Major Brown
battalion consisted of about five hundred men. Gathering Storm” and “Coup d’etat” chapters of
fully avoids the confirmed fact of Hassan Khan’s
One-third were Sikhs, one-third were Dogras, the book clearly point towards the fact that the
stormy move from Srinagar to Gigit and his
and one-third were Muslims. The battalion was events were thrust upon Brown and that he had
arrest orders thereafter, for the simple reason
well trained, with an excellent war record, and taken nobody into confidence for his later
that even a slight mention of this; fully crashes
was equipped with all modern weapons such as assumed role of the liberator of Gilgit-Baltistan.
the edifice of his artfully self-accredited story.
Bren guns, Stenguns, 3-inch mortars, and The under-mentioned clippings from the book
However, his slipshod here and there are very
grenades; a great contrast to the Scouts. There also bring into limelight; adherence by Hassan
obvious. He cleverly conceals his intimate,
was no doubt that the Sikhs and Dogras were Khan and his colleagues of the important
panning contacts and understanding with
implicitly loyal to the Maharaja and they would principles of war of unity of Command, security
Governor Ghansara Singh. In the context of
fight to the last man and the last round in and thorough cohesive planning:- Para-5 of the
organizing a political Jalsa/function at Gilgit to
opposing a revolt in the Gilgit Province. The Brown’s report on the précis of Recent Events in
celebrate birthday of Maharaja Hari Singh with
Muslims are a doubtful quantity. They might Gilgit Agency (1 Aug 1947 to 10 March 1948)
the real panned intention of arresting Hassan
remain loyal to Kashmir, they might forego their reads, “Major Brown and Captain Mathieson
by ordering Commanding officer 6th J&K with
allegiance and join their co-religionists. It was soon realized that an underground movement
a Sikh Company and Major Hassan to attend,
impossible to say at that stage.” was at work, the members of which, and the
which Hassan foiled by participating along with
actual power of which, could not be
his fully armed Muslim Company, he writes, Hassan Khan in his memoirs mentions that
ascertained. It seemed that certain local people,
“Governor Brig Ghansara Singh explained that among the Scouts, he started work of
under the guise of pro Pakistan activities, were
close relationship was required between the indoctrination from the Gilgit Scouts, stationed
aspiring to political power, but the strength of
Scouts and the 6th Kashmir Infantry at Bunji. He at Chilas. After the dismissal of Subedar Jan
the movement could not be gauged accurately
had therefore arranged that the Battalion Alam at Chilas by Brown, he inadvertently
nor could it be considered dangerous.” Para-25
should come to Gilgit for a few days so that writes, “Now apropos of recent incident in
of his above-mentioned report reads, “The
friendly contact could be established. Actually, Chilas, my own informers brought me
results of the conference were extremely
this was correct, but on account did I want the information that the new notorious Nagir
interesting. The suspicions of both British
6th Kashmir Infantry housed where they had Havaldar, whose name incidentally was Nadilo,
officers regarding an underground pro Pakistan
access to all the important magazines and rifle was in th habit of holding daily conversation on
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movement proved to be correct. Those marching towards Gilgit on Governor’s orders. under arrest.” A very important fact is
attending th conference now made clear to Something will have to be done quickly or confirmed that Major Hassan was instrumental
Major Brown what had been afoot. The there’s going to be a bust up like nobody’s in Governor’s arrest and that he arrived before
movement comprised: Captain Hassan Khan business” on another occasion. “I motioned to his arrest. In the coup d’état chapter, he writes,
(Kashmir State Forces), Captain Mohammad the Indian officers to sit down and sat down “I now received word through an orderly that
Said (attached Gilgit Scouts), Lieutenant Ghuam myself. They were all looking extremely worried. Captain Hassan had arrived and was partaking
Haider (attached Gilgit Scouts) – this officer was Baber gazed glumly at the floor muttering, of breakfast in Haider’s bungalow. I went there
working for Pakistan only and had and had no “bara mushkil, Sahib mushkil”, which means immediately and found him tucking into
personal ambitions, as had the others), Subedar very difficult” Sir, very difficult. “What Sahib, I scrambled eggs and toast. He stood up as I
Major Mohammad Babar Khan (Gilgit Scouts), ask, is very difficult.” I said. “We are more or less entered the room and greeted me effusively
ex-Subedar Shah Rais Khan, pus 80% of the responsible for the present situation,”Baber with a cry of; “Pakistan Zindabad Major Brown,
Indian officers of the Gigit Scouts and 70% of replied, “Our intention is to stage a revolution it’s good to know you are on our side too. Good
the other ranks.” About knowing the time of in Gigit in favour of Pakistan . We have not told show, good show.” He was magnificently
action from Lt Haider and of the events little you uptill now, as we were not sure what side decked out in uniform and looked quite the
after, he writes, “And what can I do for you, you would take. Tonight, is the night fixed for picture book general. “Pakistan Zindabad,” I
Lieutenant Haider? I asked jokingly, smearing the revolt. Our plan of action. And here Baber’s replied in return “Now look Here, Hassan old
oil over the flannelette. “It’s you who are speech was interrupted by a sudden outburst of boy, you and I have got to get down to work if
fiddling now, fiddling out shooting while Gilgit babble by the other Indian officers. Each was this revolt is going to be successful.” I then
burns, Sir, “he replied with a nervous laugh. He shouting in his own language but I gathered roughly sketched out my plans.” Now there can
helped himself to a very large whisky and lit a through the din that there was considerable be no denying the fact that on the orders of
cigarette with shaking fingers, stained yellow disagreement as to the plan of action. “Shut up, Commander-in-Chief Hassan Khan of the
with nicotine. I grasped that he meant a of you” I bellowed “Tell me”, I continued Islamic Republic of Gilgit-Baltistan, Major
immediately. Although I knew it was coming calmly, “what part do the 6th Kashmir Infantry Brown was arrested. He himself writes with a
any day now, I felt a momentary alarm grip me. take in these fun and games.” I’ll explain this. revile, “As I reached the corner of the road, I ran
In flash I regained my composure. “Right, let’s “Said Haider entering the conversation. “The into a half platoon of Scouts led by Havildar
have it” I said sitting down. Haider began, “The Muslim Company is in this up to the neck, under Firdous Ali Khan, who was Shah Rais Khan’s son.
Scouts are still under control and quiet. The the command of Mirza Hassan. The Scouts advanced. I backed against the wall.
Indian officers have gathered in the Subedar I would go down fighting, if I had to go down.
The Sikh and Dogra companies are on their way
Major’s bungalow and are discussing the Firdos gave me a message from the Subedar
to Gilgit. The Muslim company is left in Bunji
situation. They don’t seem to be getting very far Major. I remain in my bungalow under the
and tonight will secure the magazine and rifle
through and they are like a flock of sheep protection of Firdos and his men until the
kotes and will arrest any Sikhs and Dogras left
without a shepherd. Half the 6th Kashmir situation was under control. I understood
behind. The operation will be carried out by
Infantry have crossed the Partab Pul and are immediately that Said and Mirza Hassan had
Mirza Hassan; Colonel Majid will also be put
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appreciated that they could make little OBE, Defence Secretary to the Pakistan writes, “I might add that Pandit Kak was one of
headway with their Provisional Government so Government, flew up to Peshawar from Karachi the shrewdest men I have ever met. A Hindu
long as I was present. The Indian officers, and to hear the first-hand account of the revolt in himself, he saw that the future peace and
even Baber and Shah Rais to a certain extent, Gilgit. He was an old friend of Colonel Bacon’s; prosperity of Kashmir lay in her joining Pakistan.
were under my influence.” they had been at Sandhurst together. We went And he and his brother Pandits could only
to meet him at the aerodrome and took him continue their trade of amassing legal and
Smokescreen:
straight to Khyber House. Time was short, as he illegal wealth in a peaceful and prosperous
As brought out earlier, the entire book is was leaving for Lahore after lunch, so we got country. There would b no pace for the
intended to create a smokescreen for the down business immediately on the lawn, cowardly Pandits in a clash of arms.” He displays
benefit of all and sundry except the exploited bathed in the warm sunshine of a winter’s day.” compete ignorance of Major Hassan Khan’s
people of Gilgit-Baltistan. Major Brown claims In the para-26 and 27 of his report to the arrest orders from Srinagar sent to Gilgit, even
that only he alongwith Captain Mathieson Government of Pakistan on the précis of events before his arrival there and accords it a different
formed the pan, which was the swansong of from 1 August to 16 November 1947, in the colour by writing, “Evidently a few days ago,
Kashmir rue in the Gilgit province. He reiterates Gilgit Agency, he dubs the leaders of freedom there had been a disturbance in the lines of the
the claim by writing that assuming that the movement as working for establishment of an 6th Kashmir Infantry. The Sikhs and Dogras on
Maharaja of Kashmir would accede to the independent state and that to oppose the the one hand and the Musims on the other had
Indian Union, our object was to perform a coup wishes of military cabal for British officers at banded together and attacked one another,
d’etat in Gilgit with as little bloodshed and that time would have been suicidal. each shouting their respective war cries of
disturbance as possible, and then accede to “Hindustan Zindabad” and “Pakistan Zindabad”.
Loopholes:
Pakistan of our own accord. The wily William By the remarkable Frontier Telegraph, which I
Brown gives an impression in this book that the Major Brown and his cronies have definitely have already described, the news of this
sentiments of all the British of that time lay with underestimated the intellectual potential of the incident reached Srinagar before it reached
Pakistan. He again downplays Hassan in his people of Gilgit-Baltistan and must have Gilgit. An express telegram was sent to the
spectacular assault across River Indus attack on thought that his bluffs will work. Luckily, all the Governor of Gilgit Province by the Kashmir
Bunji by claiming that it happened because he luminaries of those turbulent times have made Government, ordering him to place Captain
got a message signed from captive Brig written statements, which are available now. A Mirza Hassan of the 6th Kashmir Infantry under
Ghansara Singh for non-Muslim Bunji troops to collation and interpretation of these thoroughly close arrest forthwith, and to send him under
lay down arms, which was passed by Hassan uncover the evil-mindedness of Brown. The escort to Srinagar. The Governor, after
Khan to Bunji. Major Brown was a master of following excerpts should be of some interest:- consultation with Colonel Majid, decided to
deceit, as is obvious from the impression which About Ram Chandir Kak’s forced resignation as take no action on this order, which if obeyed
he gave to the then slave-minded rulers of Prime Minister of the State of Jammu and would most certainly have lit the fuse of the
Pakistan. In the endgame chapter he writes, “As Kashmir due to unfair policies of the Maharaja powder barrel.” While suggesting various
soon as possible, Lt Col Iskandar Mirza, CIE, Kashmir and his subsequent imprisonment, he options to Governor Brig Ghansara Singh in

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wake of gathering storm, he grossly that we could coordinate a plan in the light of with four platoons numbering about two
overestimates himself and presents a this new development. So, I asked him to come hundred men. Dispositions would therefore
meaningful suggestion, “The second course with all speed to Gilgit.” Truth always finds its have to be arranged so that there was majority
open to you is that you, your staff, and the 6th own unknown ways to be made known and the of platoons of unquestioned loyalty in Gilgit
Kashmir Infantry pack your bags, and clear off same happened with Major Brown, when he headquarters and Chilas. The decision of the
to Srinagar. Leave the Province to decide its reached Peshawar in order to misrepresent the Hunza, Punial, Yasin, and Kuh Ghizr platoons as
own destiny. The most powerful man left will facts and and tarnish the images of dedicated to whether to join this revolt regardless of the
take over charge of the country, that is to say, I freedom fighters. He states, “He was not way I decided to cast my lot. In Gilgit
shall assume the duties of Governor. If you are surprised, but extremely interested as the only headquarters there was only one Nagir platoon
court-marshaled, as soon as order is eventually news which had reached Peshawar regarding now No.2, led by Long John’s younger brother
restored, I shall back you up to the best of my the revolt was a pack of distorted facts and lies Shah Sultan, since No.8 platoon had reluctantly
ability, and I shall prove to the prosecution that which evidently Said had given to the pilot, hit the Gupis trail. So, with Nagir in the minority
the action you took was the only one feasible Ahmed, when the latter flew Mohammad Alam and no Gilgities I was spared from the troubles
under the circumstances.” Major Brown or most in.” Sabotage: Major Brown was a highly Jock was having in Chilas where Nagir and Gilgit
probably his benefactors have very foolishly experienced person in the affairs of Gilgit and made up half the garrisons. One fina matter
mis-portrayed a very well-known event of the therefore resorted to very deep-rooted acts of remained before I was satisfied that the decks
crucial night of 31 October/1 November 1947, sabotage. In this context, his admission is were cleared for action, and this was the
by stating, “The contingent consisted of about astonishing. He writes, “But for any scheme in remove of Captain Mohammad Said from the
two hundred Muslim Sepoys under Colonel Gilgit, of the magnitude and importance of the scene of operations. It was also time now that
Majid and Captain Mirza Hassan. This was one we were planning. Hamlet decisions are Kalamdarchi Fort should be evacuated and
rather starting news. Evidently Majid had been required, decision sicklied o’er with the pale No.1 platoon (Hunza) withdrawn to Gilgit. The
clever enough to see the showdown that would cast of thought, of political consideration, tribal latter could be used as a means towards the
result if he brought the Sikhs or Dogras to structures, religious jealousies, mistrust, in former.” It is said on gravestones of Major
Gilgit; so, on receipt of the message from the addition to strategy and tactics.” A selected Brown is engraved the legend, “DATA KHE
Governor he had set of himself with the mention of some aspects with brief analysis is 31.10.47”. This secret pan as stated was
Muslims. Majid, however, had far too much surely going to be an eye opener: - In the conceived by Major Brown and Captain
control over his battalion for my liking. The only compilation and disposition aspect of all the Mathieson at Chilas and was to be put into
way to paralyze the dangerous potentialities of Scout Platoons, he writes, “Hunza, Punial, Yasin immediate effect as soon as this codeword was
the entire unit was to separate the Colonel and Kuh Ghizr were complete under my control. signaled to Mathieson at Chilas by Brown for
completely from his men. So, I sent back a This represented six platoons, and most of the coup d’etat, so that according to Brown “Set
message that the Colonel should be placed headquarters, giving a total strength of about up my own administration of the entire
under arrest immediately and it is imperative three hundred and fifty rifles. We were at that province.” This in actual fact was the pinnacle of
that I should see Mirza Hassan immediately so time not so sure Nagir and Gilgit subdivision, sabotage; task and mission of Major Brown. It

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initially aimed at control of Gilgit area north of good inner but not a bull. Fortunately, the musketry competition going on up the hill” i.e,
Indus by inviting Sikh troops from Bunji to Gilgit mistake I made was not irretrievable, but it the efforts for the arrest of Brig Ghansara. A
and isolation of Major Hassan Khan’s rebellious showed that my intelligence system was not as glimpse of his original pan becomes obvious
Muslim troops in Bunji through burning of good as I thought it was.” The intensity of Major when writes, “From the fact that Jock
Prataab and Ramghat Bridges on River Indus Brown’s intrigues can be gauged from the fact (Mathison) had received no word from his No.1
and Astore respectively, by moving Scouts from that even after the arrest of Governor Ghansara Patrol, it seemed possible that the Sikh and
Chilas and Gilgit both. This would have been Singh and his appointment as an advisor to Dogra troops had managed to cross the river
followed by engagement and liquidation of Commander-in-Chief Hassan Khan, he did not and had wiped out the Scouts.” In the context
Hassan Khan’s troops in Bunji by a numerically disclose even a word about the move of Scouts of amendments to be incorporated in the
superior Sikh/Dogra Force and annihilation of from Chilas towards Bunji and their burning of original operation “Data Khel” as a result of
the troublesome displaced Scouts of Chilas at both the bridges connecting Bunji. This Hassan Khan’s unexpected move to Gilgit
the hands of the Sikhs. This would have been information was very vital for Hassan Khan’s instead of Sikhs, he writes, “If this was correct,
followed by the move of an Indian Army attack on Bunji. At this historical point in time, then the journey would be extremely
Expeditionary Force; said to be of a Brigade Brown undertaken a very secretive, hasty and dangerous. It did not matter. I knew I could get
strength from Bandipura/Srinagar. This vital lonely riding trip to Jaglot in order to through on my own. The only thing that
information has been disclosed by Brown in his coordinate the amendments with Captain mattered now was that Jock and I must meet
book, but interestingly; he never meaningfully Mathieson, who had reached there. He admits immediately and coordinate a plan. It was too
disclosed it to al concerned. However, Hassan his planned burning of Partab Bridge, but dangerous to order and Indian officer to
Khan mentions in his memoirs about this disowns burning of Ramghat bridge. He takes accompany me. I had a better chance alone
juncture that news were in the air that an Indian great pains in covering his nefarious plan but anyway. I would probably kill the horse; I rode
brigade was concentrating in Bandipura area to most of it is beating about the bush with through hard riding.” Captain Mathieson briefs
invade Gilgit-Baltistan. These were the salient numerous slipshod for a careful reader; who Brown about the inner feelings of troublesome
features of this nefarious plan, which doomed comes across many confusions and Scouts at Chilas who were ordered to move to
to a great extent by Hassan Khan’s superior contradictions with a tinge of charming fiction. Jaglote in these words, “The next really serious
strategy and initiative, but ultimately cunning incident was when gasht number I had fallen in
Some of the important quotes from the book
Brown succeeded in detracting the ultimate prior to departure. As attempt was made by
are reproduced as under: - “A fighting patrol
aims of the revolution, resulting into a new form some subversive to prevent the patrol setting
from Gilgit would liquidate the 6th Kashmir
of slavery for the unlucky people of Gilgit- out for Jagote. They were told that the whole
Infantry picquets at Jaglote and Partab Pull
Baltistan. It is stunning to note Brown’s remarks show was a trap arranged by you, me and old
Bridge.” About his anxiety to pass the codeword
about the amendments made in the original Guv (Ghansara Singh). At some point on the
“Data Khel” to Mathieson in Chias, he writes, “I
plan. He writes, “As later events will show, my road the 6th Kashmir Infantry were lying in
was desperately anxious to see that there was
summing up of the situation was not entirely ambush and would fall on the Scouts and wipe
no mistake about the message to Chilas. It was
correct; in riffle shooting language I scored a them out to a man.” Major Brown or his
much more important, actually, than the
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sympathizers have committed many blunders Province in a temporary capacity, though I troops of 6th Kashmir Infantry Battalion in these
in this book, which clearly indicate towards the would suggest that you feign a nervous words, “The Muslim Sepoys had nothing to lose
dubious and covert nature of Major Brown’s breakdown and handover charge to Colonel now. Having mutinies, they dared not return to
role. Following is worth noticing: - From the Majid who is a Muslim.” their homes in Kashmir; we had not sufficient
very beginning Major Brown has given an rations in the Agency to feed them. Trouble
The biggest act of sabotage carried out by
impression of being at loggerheads with makers such as Mirza Hassan and Said could
Brown after his failure to undo the revolution
Governor Brig Ghansara Singh, but fails at some lead the force and this word rid the Agency of
was beyond doubt a very negative portrayal of
occasions to conceal the real understanding. them. They would get plenty of scope for Jehad
the leader of Revolution Major Hassan Khan,
One such example is in the context of trouble in Skardu with a Dogra platoon to dispose off
other leading figures and the simple masses of
making Scouts at Chilas. He writes, I then gave and a Treasury to loot.” He had a very
Gilgit-Baltistan. This was highly effective as
the Governor the gist to what had been prejudiced attitude towards the Muslim
Major Brown had a big say in the corridors of
happening in Chilas, according to what Jock elements of 6th Kashmir Infantry as obvious
power of Peshawar and Rawalpindi, as is
(Mathieson) had told me in his letter. I from his request in person to Prime Minister
obvious from the conferment of Sitara-e-
explained that there was nothing to worry Liaqat Ai Khan, “To base the Muslim element of
Pakistan to him. The following is of immense
about as Captain Mathieson had the situation the old 6th Kashmir Infantry in Bunji as
interest: - While addressing Brown, Hassan says,
well under control,” He had listened to the news completely separate unit from the Scouts. All
“We know of course that you are loyal to
of sending troops by the Government of India the officers of the Kashmir State Forces should
Pakistan – all Britishers are but it is not our
into Kashmir on 25 October 1947, but makes no join this unit and none of them should be
intention to join Pakistan. We intend to setup
efforts to make it known to any other. He makes allowed to enter Gilgit Agency, without the
an independent, Islamic State called the United
a very shrewd suggestion to Governor Brig Political Agent’s permission.” Fueling
States of Gilgit, and although we shall keep the
Ghansara Singh at a very critical time in these Sectarianism: During the preparatory as well as
friendliest relations with Pakistan, we shall in no
words, “I suggest you hold an immediate execution phase of the sacred Revolution of
way owe allegiance to that dominion. We shall
referendum in the Province. It goes without Gigit-Baltistan and thereafter in the fifteen
start the new state off by hanging the Mirs and
saying that the result will be in favor of months of long war with India, there was no
Maharajas over the Gilgit bridge by their necks;
accession to Pakistan but that is beside the question of any sectarianism at any level and at
we shall then cut the throats of all the Sikhs and
point. You can then announce that the will of any place. All segments of the population of
Hindus in Gilgit and throw them in the river. We
the people has been ascertained, though Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral and Azad Kashmir
shall line up the non-Muslim elements of the
confirmation must be kept pending until a participated in this holy struggle without any
6th Kashmir Infantry on the banks of the Indus
plebiscite is completed in the rest of Kashmir. prejudice of caste, creed and sect. The question
at Bunji and mow them down with machine
The Governor General of India has made it clear arises as to what made the highly motivated
guns. In the blood of the tyrants and
that such a plebiscite will be held as soon as elements of 6 J&K Battalion to revolt for the
unbelievers, we shall build up a new and
order is restored. With the will of people here a cause of Islam at far flung Bunji? They and their
glorious state.” He displays a very crucial
fait accompli, you can continue to govern the officers were overwhelmingly Sunnis. Similarly,
attitude towards the poor but highly motivated
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the Scouts, bodyguards and civilian participants Polo Ground. Brown describes this mob as Shah Rais Khan and I managed to persuade the
of the War of Liberation were drawn from ninety per cent Shias. While listening to the disgruntled Gushpurs to return to home. But
various religio-cultural entities and there was speech of Major Hassan Khan, after the revolt, the seeds of Sunni-Shiah faction feeling were
no symptom of sectarianism at all. It is worth he observes “I cocked up my ears, especially as above ground now.” After Baber Khan’s
mentioning here that during the entire Dogra I noted the Shiah contingent nodding their promotion, he writes, “The others asked, if one,
regime in Gigit-Baltistan, they never ever heads in approval. This was very interesting and why not another? Why should Nagir only get
resorted to this dirtiest method of divide and fitted into the picture of my suspicions. So at the sugar plum? And the devilish trouble-
rule. Dirty Brown started the game on these least some of these people were out to seize makers of the subdivision surreptitiously hinted
lines for the first time with ulterior motives and compete power for themselves? So their further Shiah domination.”
he gave an obnoxious impression about it to motives were not to join Gilgit to Pakistan. Very
Constitutional Wrangling:
the authorities in Pakistan. Resultantly, the interesting indeed.” “With this final burst of
Pakistani administration resorts to this method oratory and flourish of his riding whip, Mirza Major William Brown will always be
taught by Major Brown very often. Some Hassan sank back in his chair, his face flushed.” remembered by the people of Gilgit-Baltistan
revelations from Major Brown’s book in this “Hear, hear! shouted Shiah contingent, as a saboteur of their just rights; as a result of
regard are shocking: - “Maulais are followers of obviously overcome by this dynamic their indigenous unparalleled struggle for
H.H. The Agha Khan. They are fond of locally personality.” “Multitude of thoughts now freedom and a villain of their present
produced wine and do not indulge in praying, flashed through my mind in a matter of constitutional imbroglio. He had a complete say
fasting, making pilgrimages, veiling womenfolk seconds, Hassan’s plan was obviously a pot of on the affairs of Gilgit-Baltistan in the corridors
and other religious observances of Islam. The the Shiahs to gain complete control of the of bureaucratic and military power structures of
best description of the differences between the Agency. They would then set up an entirely Pakistan, in the initial and most important
Shias and Sunnis is that the former might be Shiah administration. The result would be civil stages of the independence, as the British top-
regarded as High Church Mohammedans and war and absolute chaos. For all I knew, and ranking officials were retained. He was
the latter as low Chirch. The Shias are fanatically Indian Army Expeditionary Force might at this instrumental in the ill-definition of the
religious in Gilgit and obey the lessons of the very moment be setting out from Bandipur.” constitutional position of Gilgit-Baltistan by
Holy Quran to the letter. The Sunnis are tolerant We had a very awkward afternoon. Every inking these areas with NWFP and giving an
and liberal-minded. The rivalry between the unemployed Gushpur and ex-Government impression to the Pakistani establishment that
Sunnis and Shias is extremely serious, especially official in the Agency arrived in Gilgit and the freedom leaders of Gilgit-Baltistan wanted
in the subdivision and there is always the demanded well paid jobs under the new a complete independent sectarian State. The
likelihood of a regrettable breach of the peace, provisional Government. They made it quite following excerpts from his book are worth
only under exceptionally significant clear that they considered the new Government noticing:- In the chapter on ‘Return to Gilgit’, he
circumstances would the Sunnis and Shias unite an entirely Shiah-sponsored concern and they writes, “All that Gilgit wanted was the peace and
in one movement.” After the arrest of Governor urged its immediate dissolution and the security afforded under the Pax Britannica, and
Ghansara, people got together in the Shahi formation of a representative administration. the method by which this could have been

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continued, despite partition, would have been land a little before expected reception, he of Gilgit-Baltistan. Worth noting in this regard
to have made the Gilgit Agency an Agency of humiliates him in these words, “We turned and are his following statements: -
the North-West Frontier Province, directly what looked like the charge of the light Brigade
In the context of the formation of provisional
under H.E, the Governor. This would have breasted the brow of the road. In the lead was
Govt. just after the surrender of Governor
ensured a continuity in administration, peace, Shah Rais Khan. His horse completely out of
Ghansara, he writes, “It was now becoming
security and unity, infertile ground for Soviet control, he had thrown the reins to the wind,
increasingly obvious that there was a good deal
seed.” Again, “Gilgit Agency is really a part of and was hanging on the pommel of the saddle
more going on than Pakistan proclivities, and
the North West Frontier Province.” While with both hands for all he was worth. Who on
the somewhat dubious situation was clarified to
briefing the newly arrived Pakistani Political earth’s that fellow in front? A Cossack trick-
me some ten minutes later in a most interesting
Agent, he writes, “I would advise that you make rider? asked Mohammad Alam. That is the
manner. I found quite a gathering of the cans in
immediate arrangements for a Pathan staff to Nawab of Gilgit, I replied. I think it was these
the sitting room. All rose to their feet and
be sent up from Peshawar. Five are required; an few words which cemented an invaluable
saluted. I motioned them to sit down and took
Assistant Political Agent, a Tehsildar, a Naib friendship between us. I saw he had a keen
stock; Baber, Shah Rais Khan, Mirza Hassan,
(Assistant) Tehsildar, a Treasury Clerk, and a sense of humor after my own heart. We both
Shah Sultan, and Jan Alam (eventually returned
Personal Assistant. That is a sufficient number laughed till the tears ran down our faces.” The
from retirement), representing the Shiah
of neutral outsiders and with them you’ll soon Residency of the Governor House in Gilgit has
contingent, sat together. On the far side sat
have your administration functioning like always remained a symbol of alien bureaucratic
Shah Khan, Fida Ali (a Hunzawal but a Shiah),
clockwork.” While pondering on the situation, slavish rule. After the surrender of Governor
Jamedar Shah Zaman of Punial (just returned
he writes, “As the first light of dawn cast grey Brown again ensured slavery of the people of
from leave). Police Inspector Hamid of Punial,
streaks across the floor, we appreciated and North. He mentions, “We did not know Political
and Jamedar Akbar Hussain , who commanded
reached conclusions on the political situation. Agent Mohammad Alam, but it was befitting
the Gilgit platoon.” On another occasion, he
The Gilgit Agency was not nearly ready for self- and most necessary that the Pakistan
writes, “At every move, I was thwarting Mirza
government, and the continuance of the representative should stay in Agency House.
Hassan and his satellites from their dream of a
present so-called Provisional Government We also thought that there was every possibility
united State of Gilgit. If I could be disposed of,
would only lead to anarchy in a violent outburst that Colonel Bacon might be accompanying
however, they would be free to pursue their
of faction-feeling. If peace and tranquility were him – in fact the the current rumor in the
nefarious plans. So the first thing I did was to
to be maintained, an alien dictator must assume Agency was that Colonel Bacon was returning
organize a strong Scout bodyguard for myself,
compete power, a dictator such as the Political as Political Agent.” Brown has taken great pains
of chosen men from different tribes on whom I
Agent was before Partition.” Though, in his in downplaying and erroneous labeling of the
placed full confidence.” After hoisting of
initial reports he has praised the first President members and leaders of the revolution and
Pakistan flag in a ceremony, he accuses Hassan,
of the Islamic Republic of Gilgit-Baltistan, Raja provisional Government which had a direct
“I breathed a sigh of relief. A very definite step
Shah Rais Khan; but on the arrival of the first bearing on the undefined constitutional status
had now been taken against Mirza Hassan and
Pakistan Political Agent , who has happened to
the gang. Let him dare to remove the Pakistan
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fag and replace it with that of his United States.” interview. It transpired that Mirza Hassan had my point of view. When I finished he said, “The
Brown’s misrepresentation of the aims of arrived in Gilgit the previous evening from best thing Roger, is for you to bring Brown
provisional Govt can be gauged from the Bunji. He had immediately called a meeting of down to the Prime Minister’s Conference at
attributed wordings of Captain Saeed Durrani (a the Provisional Government. He pointed out to Rawalpindi at the beginning of December,
non-local), “And now,” continued Said, “We the members that the powerful duo of Liaqat Ali, the Pakistan Premier will be there,
have decided to form a Provisional Government Mohammad Alam and Brown, working in close and I shall brief him regarding the situation in
to rule the Gilgit Agency. The word of the cooperation, spelt the doom of the Provisional Gilgit beforehand. You too can then fill in the
Government will be law, and if a representative Government and all their aspirations towards details and advise him as to the best course of
of the Pakistan Government does arrive he will absolute power in the independent United action.” In the same context, “We were
be allowed no hand in dictating policy, but will States of Gilgit. They would inform him that introduced to the various Secretaries and
be treated as a mere observer.” He, throughout although he was the Pakistan Representative, it Assistants who had accompanied the Pakistan
his tenure, gave a wrong impression to the was the Provisional Government which held Premier, to Khan Iftikhar Hussain Khan, Khan of
government of Pakistan as is obvious from, absolute power in Gilgit. He must therefore Mamdot, Premier of the West Punjab, and to
“The ambitious in Gilgit were now preparing for make no decision without first receiving their Sardar Mohammad Ibrahim, President of the
the inevitable scramble for power which would approval, and that he further must obey their Free Kashmir Government. I had a long and
result if Pakistan did not decide to interfere. orders in all matters. Their first order was that interesting talk with each and I was particularly
Political factions, religious factions, blood Major Brown must be instantly relieved from his struck by their patriotism for Pakistan. Pakistan
factions, and tribal factions were gathering their appointment of Commandant Scouts.” and the Quaid-I-Azam were everything to them;
forces and panning their campaign of action.” Question arises about the legal and official I could detect no faction feeling or
Again, “On 9 November, I dispatched a wireless capacity in which Major Brown was being disagreement, and I became certain that if this
message to Colonel Bacon, the only person in entertained as a sole representative of the state of complete unity continued, the
Pakistan at the time who could really appreciate people of Gilgit-Baltistan by the Pakistani prospects of the future prosperity of the
the situation. Doing utmost to keep situation establishment, especially in wake of the Dominion were indeed bright.”
under control but cannot do so indefinitely presence of bona fide provisional Govt of the
REVOLUTION FOR INDEPENDENCE AT
owing successive internal intrigue – stop – Islamic Republic of Gilgit-Baltistan. The
GILGIT (1ST NOVEMBER 1947) AN INDEPTH
imperative representative from Pakistan arrive following is worth noticing in this regard:- “I
ANALYSIS BACKGROUND
immediately – stop – moral effect of even short duly delivered the Instrument of Accession of
visit would reassure population.” About Hassan Hunza and Nagir to Lt Colonel A J Dring CIE, Correct Perspective:
Khan’s reappearance on the political scene of Chief Secretary to the Government of the North
The breathtaking traumatic events of 1947,
Gilgit after Pakistani Political Agent’s arrival he West Frontier Province.” About his encounter
happening in a milieu of peculiar Machiavellian
writes, “After lunch, the provisional Government with Sikandar Mirza, the Defence Secretary, he
conspiracies of Gilgit Game; culminated into a
appeared on the scene, led by Mirza Hassan writes, “The Defence Secretary became ardently
pure military revolt in Gigit on 1 November
and Said. Mohammad Alam granted them an enthusiastic and I knew I had won him over to
1947; thereby giving birth to a revolutionary
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era, wherein the English and Dogra Yoke of Two Battalions of Jammu and Kashmir State reasonably senior serving Muslim officers, but
slavery was dispensed with. A wholesome, Forces i.e, 2 and 4 J&K participated in this war they were not confided due to their slavish
coherent and realistic view of these events is in a big way. Captain Hassan Khan and Captain mentality. Brigadier Ghansara Singh Jammuwal,
necessary to gauge minutely, as to what has Aslam of 4 J&K, considered to be the crackest the last Dogra Governor of the Northern
really happened, especially in wake of unit of the State Forces, were promoted as Kashmir Province of Gilgit-Baltistan; very clearly
labyrinthed portrayal of cascade of lies and Major together on 3 November 1943. During mentions in his memoir “Gilgit Before 1947”
tangled web of events. It assumes added this period Hassan Khan along with other that it was in the knowledge of General
importance, keeping in view the fact that Muslim officers met Quaid-e-Azam in Bombay Headquarters Srinagar that Hassan had started
almost all the luminaries of those incredible and sought his guidance. Who prophetically work for Pakistan in Srinagar. It is pertinent to
events have made written statements, which are advised that the interest which has brought note that the only three and a half of Muslim
available now and there can be no denying the them to him will guide them further. After J&K Regiment of the State Forces were
fact that this unique feat of the history of Second World War, the Muslim elements of J&K instrumental in determining the course of War
creation of Pakistan has been hijacked by the Troops reached back Satwari Cantonment, of Liberation. The hard worked out strategy for
very elements like the then Commandant Gilgit Jammu from overseas in January 1946; to find toppling Dogra regime, in case of its accession
Scouts Major Brown , who in fact had worked themselves in an atmosphere of changed with India got s jolt, when opportunist Major
against it. In the absence of an authentic attitudes, religious state of Jammu and Aslam got himself quietly posted to undivided
historic account; we are gullible to fall for Indian Kashmir in general and that of its Muslim Indian Army at Ranchi to reap promotion
and British versions hook, line and sinker. We population in particular was in doldrums, due benefit and thus left Jammu; his task and his
should be wary of the Indian version to prove to impending partition of the subcontinent. The native town unattended. Major Afzal Shaheed
that Pakistan is a creation of British. This Muslim officers of the State Forces got together was in Nowshera and Hassan Khan was
sensational revolt triggered a long drawn war, and hatched a Secret Military Council , headed successful in getting himself posted to an
at the peak of which in May 1948 – 63000 out by Major Hassan and initially consisted of Major independent Company of 6 J&K at Srinagar,
of a total 84000 square miles area of the Afzal Shaheed, Major Mohammad Din, Major Badami Bagh Cantonment in July 1947. As the
Kashmir State was liberated. Rehmat Ullah, Major Sher, Major Ghazanfar Ali secrecy of the Military Council was leaking out,
Shah, Major Feroz Din and Captain Mansha. therefore they were eager for a prompt action
TURMOIL IN THE STATE ARMY:
Major Asam (Shangrila fame) was cultivated but were hindered by the Stand Still Agreement
The settings of this revolt can be traced back to with difficulties. Gradually with hard work, some between Quaid-e-Azam and Maharaja Hari
the year 1935 of the “Great Game Era” , when other Muslim officers were also included. The Singh. Major General D.K Palit VrC in his book
Maharaja Hari Singh withdrew his own indoctrination was amazingly welcome by on official history of the J&K Rifles writes,
administrative machinery and handed over majority of the Muslim Junior Commissioned “There was a pot in the offing to subvert the
Gilgit Agency to the British on a sixty year lease officers and other ranks. According to Colonel Muslim elements of J&K. In these troubled time
due to persistent British interest. This was (late) Mansha Khan, the over-clever type were some among the Muslim officers continued to
followed by the outbreak of Second World War. not included. Though there were some tender loyal service, but there were many who

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had begun to plan acts of treachery and Rajas of Gilgit-Baltistan were summoned to and execution of the revolt phase in a
betrayal that were to deal a crippling blow to Srinagar and they vowed their allegiance to chronological manner.
the defence of the State.” Furthermore, Major Maharaja Kashmir. August was a month of
COMPARISON OF FORCES
then Lieutenant Colonel Rehmat Ullah Khan in mounting tension in the State and as a result of
his report of 25 April 1948 and 3 June 1952, leaked out secrecy of the Secret Military Consult the Appendix
respectively on “Rajauri Operations” writes, In Council, Hassan Khan along with his D
CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS LEADING TO THE
1947, out of the 15000 strength of the State Company was posted out forthwith to Bunji , in
PLANNING AND REVOLT OF 1 NOVEMBER
Forces, only about 1500 were Muslims, Most of order to relieve a company of 5 J&K of Captain
1947 AND SUBSEQUENT FALL OF BUNJI
whom were in the 2nd, 4th and 6th Kashmir Durga Singh. It is to be observed that initially
GARRISON
Rifles, where they formed 50% of the strength. the intention was only to dispose off a
These units were stationed in Nowshera, troublesome field officer in a remote corner and REAL ENGLISH DESIGNS FOR GILGIT-
Muzaffarabad and Gilgit respectively. Since the rest 6 J&K Battalion stationed at Nowshera BALTISTAN
1940, the Dogra Ruler who was himself the C- was not to be rushed to Gilgit-Baltistan;
The last English Viceroy of Subcontinent, on 1st
in-C of the State Forces, hd been following a especially in the wake of the troubled state of
Lord Mountbatten was a supreme manipulator.
policy of open discrimination against the affairs of the State and the fact that out of a
On his orders on 1st August 1947; a little before
Muslim troops. Recruitment of Muslims had total of nine Battalions of the State Army,
partition, the hard-earned Gilgit Agency was
been stopped and the senior Muslim officers almost one Battalion was already looking after
handed over to the Dogra regime. At this critical
were being superseded. Muslim troops were the peaceful Northern Regions. It is worth
time, Quaid-e-Azam was having Standstill
therefore disgruntled. All of them were, mentioning that at this stage, there were hectic
Agreement with Maharaja Hari Singh. Brig
moreover, pro Pakistan and expected the state movements of the State troops to and fro.
Ghansara Singh alongwith Chief of General
to form part of it. Some Muslim officers of the
SCOPE: Staff of the State Army Genera Scott and
Dogra Army had long been in league with each
Captain Saeed Durrani arrived in Gilgit on 30
other to rebel against Dogra Raj in the State An effort has been made to logically explain
July 1947 and took over charge of the Agency
when the British withdrew. In 1947, these the planning and execution of the first phase of
as Governor from Lieutenant Colonel Beacon,
officers were scattered in the State, in the war of liberation for Gigit-Baltistan i.e the
the English Political Agent. On behalf of Scouts,
Nowshera, Muzaffarabad, Gilgit etc. Thus when revolution at Gilgit by taking into account all
Major Brown presented their customary
the Dogra started a planned mass massacre of available material. Luckily, written statements of
demands of pay-raise proportional to that of
the unarmed Muslim population of the Jammu all the leading characters of this highly
State Forces. The services of the two British
province, and the Maharaja decided to accede sensational revolt of, including those of
officers with the Scouts i.e Major Brown and
to India, these troops rose in revolt and a treacherous conspirators are now available. It
Captain Mathieson, was willingly retained in the
widespread and spontaneous uprising took has been tried to establish the link between
State Army, on their own consent and thus in
place in the Mirpur, Muzaffarabad and Gilgit different chain of events both during planning
accordance with the rules/regulations, they
areas.” At this juncture, all important Mirs and
were directly responsible to Governor. As per a
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briefing report of Major Brown, he used to daily Raja Noor Ali Khan from Astore. On arrival of oath of allegiance from responsible personnel
present the facts before Governor. During Commanding Officer of 6th J&K, Lt Col Abdul of Scouts. Captain Saeed Durrani was acting as
beginning August, there was an infighting Majeed in Bunji, I briefed him about the Deputy of the Military Revolutionary Council ,
among various local Mirs/Rajas; including situation and ordered for necessary action.” headed by Hassan Khan, whose orders were to
Mehtar Chitral over the State of Yasin. It should While on the move, Hassan Khan received a be obeyed at all cost. It is important to note that
be specifically noted that after the partition of message of Major General Scott to immediately at this point of time, Maharaja Hari Singh had
the Subcontinent, Lord Mountbatten was the report back, which was ignored. Now realizing not declared the independence or accession
Governor General Bharat and Quaid-e-Azam the stance of the revolted company, Force status of the State of Kashmir. Captain
was the Governor General of Pakistan; who available to neutralize it and seriousness of the Muhammad Khan Jaral and Major Ehsan Ali
refused to accept him as the common situation, 6th J&K stationed at Nowshera was have also written that Baber Khan was taken
Governor. It was from this position that immediately rushed to Srinagar and then into confidence by Hassan for the cause of
Mountbatten ordered entry of Indian Army into directed towards Bunji. Hassan Khan Pakistan. Brig Ghansara Singh terms this
Kashmir. comfortably reached Bunji on 10 September situation as alarming in the wake of continuing
1947 and peacefully relieved Captain Durgha liaison between Muslim officers of Gilgit Scouts
Sing’s eager to eave, 5th J&K Company. Now, and J&K Regiment at Bunji. Two Gilgiti brothers
STORMY MOVE AND BELLING OF THE CAT Hassan had no other option at this stage except Zawar Muhammad Ali and Amir Jehandar Shah
rallying support of Gilgit Scout elements. The use to relay messages between Gilgit and Bunji
Major Hassan's D Company started movement
first to be indoctrinated through elements 6 for the Revolutionary Council. Shortly
from Srinagar for Bunji on 1 September 1947.
J&K was Subedar Jan Alam of Scouts at Chilas. afterwards, 6 J&K Battalion under their
While leaving Srinagar, the motivated Company
Shorty afterwards, Captain Nek Aam arrived Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Majid
started raising pro-Pakistan slogans. Brig
with another company of 6 J&K. Hassan Khan, arrived at Bunji. Hassan Khan immediately
Ghansara Singh, Governor of Gilgit writes,
assessing his pro- Ghandi ideas, got him cultivated al the Muslim elements of the
“Leading Company of 6 J&K started raising pro-
transferred to Skardu through through his Regiment and very successfully knitted a close
Pakistan slogans in Bandipura. People of Gurez
connections. The Second in Command of Gilgit web around his Commanding Officer; thereby
and Astore reported this to me and asked to
Scouts, Captain Saeed Durrani mentions that he use to remain abreast with what al was
stop them. I promptly reported the issue to
Major Hassan Khan, while on a trout fishing in transpiring between his commanding officer
Major Genera Scott and Brig Rajinder Singh. In
Kargah Nullah in the vicinity of Gilgit, took oath and the Governor about his arrest. The first
reply, Scott intimated that State Police has also
of allegiance on Quran from him. He further President of the interim Government of the
confirmed the complaint of locals through a
states that later on, the oath of the secret Republic of Gigit-Baltistan, Raja Shah Rais Khan,
responsible officer. He further directed that
Military Council on Quran for toppling Dogra whose was initially an employee of the
necessary disciplinary action should be taken
regime was also taken by Captain Mohammad Governor secretariat writes that in his presence
against culprits. They should be arrested and
Khan, Lieutenant Haider and Subedar Major Lieutenant Colonel Majeed complained against
send to Srinagar under escort. The same was
Babar Khan. Baber Khan submitted a written Hassan to Governor, who was of the opinion
also reported in writing by Revenue Assistant
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that he should be shot. In connection with the Brown use to daily present the facts before of undertaking any action; as Brown has
birthday celebrations of Maharaja Hari Singh, a Governor. Captain Saeed says that a little assured them that within two to three days,
political function/Jalsa was organized at Gilgit before revolt, he sensed that Brown has got an Governor will ensure declaration of accession of
with the intention of arresting Hassan. inkling of their secret activities and was these areas with Pakistan by Maharaja Kashmir.
Commanding officer 6 J&K with a Sikh instigating Governor against him. Resultantly, This displayed the treacherous nature Brown
Company and Major Hassan were ordered to he was posted to Misgar/Kalamdarchi Fort near and his ability to cleverly win confidence of
attend. He foiled the attempt by participating Chinese border. Major Brown was now up to Hassan’s colleagues. Hassan got infuriated on
along with his fully armed Muslim Company. scattering the suspected key personne, Captain this and explained to them that after Maharaja’s
Governor mentions that through informers, he Muhammad Khan Jaral was posted to Bunji, decision, he is left with no authority to do this
came to know that during this function, Muslim Subedar Jan Alam was dismissed, Subedar and explained to them the dire consequences
officers of Bunji and Gilgit conspired. Major Major Baber Khan was mosty kept on patrolling, of an inaction. After sometime, they again rang
Brown has recorded that Governor and he was about to be discharged and use to up and promised to act in the evening; as they
Commanding Officer 6 J&K got the order of bitterly crib against Brown with Hassan. On the had realized the truth. It is interesting to note
sending Hassan under arrest to Srinagar other hand, Lieutenant Haider and Naib that the old man in the Governor House was
annulled, for fear of aggravation of an already Subedar Shah Khan were having a good listening to all what was being communicated.
serious situation. opinion of Brown uptill now. Lieutenant Haider He, at this moment used his last but well-
mentions that code names were allotted to key thought-out trump card. He himself writes, “In
DAUNTLESS PLANNING AND
personnel, fortunately some letters of those the wake of the protection request of Hindus, I
OVERPOWERING INTRIGUES
days with code names have been printed in had to choose between Gilgit Scouts and State
Major Hassan Khan (MC) was of the opinion certain books. On 28 October 1947, Maharaja Forces. Keeping in mind Punjab and Poonch
that Major Brown’s policies were in conformity Kashmir announced expected accession with disturbances, State Force was more harmful to
with General Graccy’s policies and his services India. Hassan at Bunji came to know of it early us. I avoided them till the last. I ordered
were rendered by Maharaja Kashmir for the in the morning of 31 October 1947. He Lieutenant Colonel Abdu Majeed to reach Gilgit
same purpose. There were news in the air that immediately established contact with with maximum possible force as soon as
India was about to station a brigade in the Lieutenant Haider and Subedar Major Baber possible.” Major Genera D.K Palit, Vr C in his
region. The civil population in Gilgit, much Khan at Gilgit. It was mutually decided and book on official version of the “History of the
before time was considering Hassan Khan as agreed that on the night of 31 October, at J&K Rifles” depicts this juncture in these words,
the ring-leader. It is mentioned in black and midnight Hassan will attack Sikh/Dogra “Ghansara being dubious of the loyalty of the
white in Major Brown’s report that Major Brown elements in Bunji, for which they will come to Muslim Company of 6 J&K at Bunji, opted to
and Captain Mathieson soon realized that an his help after arresting the Governor. At 1200 rely solely on the Scouts for the defence of
underground movement in the troops was at hour on 31 October, again Haider and Baber Gigit.” The wickedness of Brown can be gauged
work, the members of the actual power of rang up Hassan with a perplexed mind and from the fact that on 27 October, anticipating
which could not be ascertained. Furthermore, informed him that now there is no requirement known accession decision or on 28 October;

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after knowing decision, gave orders to Scouts FROM THE SLAVE DUSK OF 31 OCTOBER TO Company of J&K came across Zawar
at Chilas, headed by Captain Matheison to THE FREEDOM DAWN OF 1 NOVEMBER Muhammad Ali, the messenger at Parri Bangla,
advance and surround Bunji by burning the two 1947 who apprised them of the situation in Gilgit. He
important bridges of Ramghat and Partab; was given a message for Lieutenant Haider by
Lieutenant Haider, after consulting his diary of
thereby completely isolating Bunji. This was the Company Commander Major Hassan Khan
those turbulent moments, writes of the events
done so that as advised by Major Brown, The to send a fake message from Governor to Bunji
of Night 31 Oct-1 November 1947 in these
Sikh Company to be asked by the Governor in for Lieutenant Colonel Majeed and Major Ehsan
words, “30 men with Subedar Major to
Gilgit is capable of controlling area North of Ali to immediately come to Gilgit for an
Governor’s place to arrest him – Post and
Indus and Hassan Khan, the defector is sorted emergent meeting. The prime motive was that
telegraph offices taken over by me. I went to
out in Bunji. Subedar Taighoon Shah of Scouts these two Muslim officers should not be
Governor House and burst fire Medium
admits receiving instructions to snipe Hassan’s influential on the leftover Muslim elements of
Machine Gun (Brig Ghansara Singh
positions in Bunji on that very night, he was J&K Regiment in Bunji during Hassan’s absence.
recapitulates those moments in these words
attack Sikhs there. Hassan Khan in his memoir He was further instructed that after passing this
Yes it was Lieutenant Haider; son of Lieutenant
mentions, “If going of Sikhs to Gilgit would have message, no other information whatsoever
Colonel Sher Ali (Redt) of 6th J&K Infantry,
happened, may would have joined them and should be allowed to be passed to Bunji. Hassan
earning pension from State, who was firing on
Scouts would have disintegrated.” At about Khan came across Subedar Safiulah Beg’s
me – 30 Men and Medium Machine Gun to
noon time on 31 October 1947, the head clerk persons at the start of village Minawar after
Bhup Singh Pari to block route from Bunji –
of the Battalion , Captain (Honorary) Ghulab Din exchange of pro Pakistan slogans. H capable
Governor is holding out and night passes like
informed Hassan that Captain Baldev Singh’s military commander always takes into account
that, during night a message that Hasan has
Sikh Company is being dispatched to Gilgit. various ifs and buts. Subedar Safiulah was also
reached Parri, a relief – Dawn of 1 November
Hassan Khan duly alarmed went to the briefed to arrest Lieutenant Colonel Majeed
and the Governor has not surrendered - Hassan
Commanding Officer armed and bluntly told and Ehsan Ali on their way to Gigit for a
arrives Gigit – Hassan and myself move down –
him to send him alongwith his Muslim supposedly emergent meeting with Governor.
Green Light goes up at Governor’s residence as
Company to Gilgit instead of Sikhs, otherwise Thereafter, Hassan Khan alongwith his Burma
arranged to signal his surrender.” Naib Subedar
he should be ready for a battle in Bunji, then war companion orderly Farman Ali (still alive),
Shah Khan (Group Captain later) also confirms
and there. Lieutenant Colonel Majeed galloped towards Gilgit. From now onwards the
that Lieutenant Haider the Agency (Governor)
consented and Hassan Khan after briefing the events have been misconstrued and highly
House to arrest Brig Ghansara. Baber Khan has
remaining Muslim elements about the strategy misrepresented for innumerable motives.
also claimed in writing that he arrested Major
for coming days, left Gilgit alongwith his outfit, Therefore, there is a need of grasping
Brown before moving up to arrest Ghansara
a little before dusk time. Now indeed, the fate numerous versions simultaneously in a gradual
and that he was having two Junior
of Gilgit-Baltistan hung by a slender thread. manner. Besides, it is equally important to
Commissioned Officers with him i.e, Subedar
gauge the motive of Governor Ghansara for
Shah Sultan and Subedar Safiulah for this
holding out throughout the night alongwith
purpose. On the other hand, the Muslim
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only two orderlies, despite very heavy odds. In by taking cover of Naib Tehsildar Mani Ram.” message by Hassan Khan was dictated to
this skirmish, Scouts had two casualties. Hassan Hassan Khan further mentions that, “At 0900 Lieutenant Haider for asking a Pakistan
arrived Gigit just at dawn time and went straight hours, I called Raja Noor Ali and Governor’s PA representative to help them in administration.
to Scouts Lines where he came across some Sehdev Singh. Through them I sent a written This is verified in a secret report of 4 Mar 1949
Junior Commissioner Officers including Shah message to Governor assuring him of security sent by Government of Pakistan, Secretariat of
Sultan, Sultan Feroz, Shah Khan, Fida Ali but was and honor of his life. He was conveyed that the Minister without portfolio to Lieutenant
not able to trace Haider and Baber. On inquiry instead of Sikhs, I have arrived. Immediately Colonel Iskandar Mirza, Defence Secretary,
he was told that they were holding meetings white buntings were raised from both sides. Govt of Pakistan, Karachi; stating in para 9
with Brown in the Officers’ Mess. Over there he Subedar Shah Sultan arrested the Governor.” “About the beginning of October 1947, there
found them demoralized and after narrating Now following should be crystal clear. Governor was some local disturbance due to a clash
the events of the night, they proposed to burn was resisting in wait for the Sikh troops to between the Muslim and Sikh elements in the
the Governor’s Bungalow. At this juncture let us arrive. Lt Haider/Baber sent a message through Kashmir State Forces. The tension was
analyze the different versions. Governor writes, Mani Ram but to no avail, Ghansara gave up accentuated by the sudden announcement of
“Next morning Tehsildar Pandit Mani Ram once he came to know through Raja Noor Ali the accession of Kashmir to the Indian Union.
alongwith a Police Inspector came and said that and Sehdev Singh that instead of Sikhs, Hassan There was an almost bloodless revolution and
officers’ are asking to lay down arms wihin has arrived. Shah Sultan physically arrested him early in November, a local provisional
fifteen minutes. I called Revenue Assistant inside the Bungalow and Baber Khan escorted Government was set up, which invited the
Astore, Raja Noor Ali Khan and Tehsildar him to the Scouts ines. The picture becomes Pakistan Government to take it over.” The
Sehdev Singh. After discussing the situation clear, wholesome and without any English officer Major Brown on behest of
with them and getting information about the contradictions, once the various statements are Hassan’s colleagues also attended the said
arrival of Coonel Abdul Majeed, of whom I was taken together in their entirety. After this meeting and were appointed as his military
anxiously waiting to turn the tide and instead of happening, people started gathering in Shahi advisors. On the appointment of the President
knowing that Captain Hassan Khan has arrived, Polo ground. Hassan Khan addressed them and of the newly formed Republic, a row erupted
after deploying his Company in Parri, at 0900 after announcement of the Islamic Republic of between Hassan, who pointed a pistol at the
hours, I decided to agree to their conditions.” Gilgit-Baltistan, he assured the non-Muslims English officer. This English officer was arrested
Subedar Major Baber Khan mentions that present there of security of their honour and on order of Hassan Khan after the meeting.
“Governor came out in the morning – I had sent lives. An interim government was set up in a Lieutenant Haider’s diary of that period states,
Naib Tehsildar Mani Ram to Governor – I took meeting held in Scouts Lines and Hassan Khan “Brown arrested by Hassan on 1 November, but
him to Scouts Lines.” Subedar Shah Sultan was declared leader of the Revolutionary released on my insistence. He remained
highlights this event by saying, “Governor was Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Army. ineffective till Muslim officers ruled Gilgit, but
not arrested till morning. Nobody was able to A Raja of Gilgit, Shah Rais Khan was appointed started showing his colors once Pakistan
arrest the Governor. Major Hassan Khan as the President and Haider took over as the Political Agent Sardar Alam came into the
selected me. I physically arrested the Governor Civil Administrator. In this meeting a signal arena. He was a cunning person, who was able

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to convince the new administration about his rue. He defeated and captured all the Sikh and Khan off from the command of Tiger Force
vita role in the liberation of Gilgit, impress the Dogra troops. He assisted by two other officers when in the vicinity of Bandipura and Wular
local rulers of his importance and ensured of Scouts, put the Governor under arrest and Lake of Srinagar valley, to a worthless ISSB
ouster of Muslim officers.” His diary further took over the administration of the Agency. He Kohat test for induction into Pakistan Army. At
states, “Major Brown was a dirty fish – my was practically head of the administration till a later critical stage as Personal Secretary to
mistakes – at the start of revolt I had good Pakistan took over. The Pakistan Government General Tariq C-in-C of Azad Forces, he
opinion about him. He had given false was invited by them to take over.” Another shamelessly writes to Colonel Jillani as a
impression in Pakistan. Cunning Brown thinks surprise in this unbelievable adventure is added consequence of reverses, “Hassan has finished
of me to be an obstruction in his way. I told by Major Aslam Khan of J&K (later Brig Aslam his interview with the selection board and
Khan Qayyum, Chief Minister of NWFP about of Shangrilla fame) who betrayed Muslim although for reasons that you and the PA know,
him.” It is an eye-opener to know what Major officers’ cause of liberating whole of Kashmir by I did not consider his presence desirable in the
Brown has given out in his debriefing report to abandoning Jammu. He writes in his handing Scouts at that time, in the present emergency,
an English C-in-C of Pakistan Army, over notes to Major General Jillani; on packing he may be useful, as desired, he is being sent to
endeavoring to tarnish the image of Hassan off as Military Representative/Commander of report to you.” His successor Colonel/Brigadier
Khan, “The movement was headed by Hassan Pakistan Army in Gilgit-Baltistan, after suffering Jillani of Indian National Army has also made
Khan to form an independent State and to kill severe reverses, “Hassan hatched plans with interesting observations about the events of 1
all non-Muslims. To oppose the wishes of this Scouts for taking over control of this area from November 1947, “The local Mirs, Rajas
party on 1 November, would have been th Dogras and got himself recognized as considered the whole thing foolish, local
suicidal. Major Brown therefore accepted the Military dictator of Gigit. He set up a cabinet of nonentity proclaimed the head of independent
situation and helped to maintain law and order local riff-raffs. The ‘Cabinet’ found it difficult to Gilgit Republic, with real power in the hands of
and advised all to avoid any resort to violence. work smoothly and Pakistan Government was Military. One of the Marshals put some people
Major Brown pointed out the futility of requested to send their representative. under arrest including some military officers
attempting to form an independent state that Fortunately, Gilgit Treasury was still found who were senior to him and threatened Mirs
affiliation to Pakistan was the only way to intact. The cabinet was dissolved, Major Brown etc., with dire consequences unless they
ensure safety and security.” In actual fact the and Captain Mathieson, who had been arrested submitted to the new Government.” On 2
smokescreen for accrediting English officers for released, against arrested by the cabinet were November, Colonel Majeed and Major Ehsan Ali
toppling Dogra regime and their role in the put incharge of the Scouts and Captain Hassan started for Gilgit as per the fake message and
creation of Pakistan serves the purpose of Khan – who by this time had assumed the rank by noon were arrested at Bhup Sing Pari. Ehsan
Indians as well as English. The first Pakistani of Major General was sent to command the Ali writes, “Hassan become a self-styled Genera,
Political Agent Sardar Alam sums up those Bunji-Astore area; with the rank of Mountain as he was junior to Commanding Officer and
events in these words communicated to a Joint Marshal.” He has written like this in conformity myself, ordered our arrest saying that we were
Secretary, “In my official capacity – Hassan was with the wishes of his English bosses of Pakistan from Dogras.”
the moving spirit in a plot to overthrow Dogra Army. He was instrumental in taking Hassan

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ASSAULT ACROSS FROM RIVER INDUS AND
FALL OF BUNJI GARRISON

The success at Gilgit for the longevity of the

Revolution was meaningless unless the
Sikhs/Dogra power concentrated at Bunji was
neutralized. Hassan Khan being the only war
veteran officer had no time at his disposal to
deal with the conspiracies at Gilgit. In Bunji, it
was important to achieve success in the first
attempt, otherwise the enemy over there was
capable of holding out and could have
established line of communication with
Srinagar and Baltistan for obtaining
reinforcements. Hassan advanced towards
Bunji on 2 November 1947, with five Platoons
of Gilgit Scouts and Rife Company of J&K at
1700 hours. The attack across Indus on a raft
was conducted on 4 November, when the Sikhs
and Muslim elements in Bunji were about to
clash. Hassan Khan was in the leading raft and
with his arrival on far bank, the Sikh/Dogras
fled. It was a unique and a spectacular act.
Hassan sarcastically writes that in the evening
of the same day, his colleagues of Gilgit
alongwith Brown came to congratulate him.

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 APPENDIX
COMPARISON OPPOSING FORCES
FORCE STRENGTH / DISPOSITION ROLE COMBAT COMMANDERS OWN/ REMARKS
COMPOSITION WORTHINES ENEMY

Gilgit Scouts 582 Consisting of 300' at Gilgit. It was a political force. Its Only well J & K originally came to take over but after 95% Sensing the impending revolt in
platoon’s front Rest Misgar, commandant was versed in hiring on contract of Major Brown and own the offing,Major Drown got
several small stales. All Chilas responsible to Political patrolling and Captain Mathieson by die Dogra regime, 5% Captain Saeed posted to Misgar.
Muslims. These Platoons and Ghizer Agent and latter to climbing at that he v» is appointed Second in Command enemy Captain Mohammad Khan to Bunji
were significantly under Governor. Its stage. Lieutenant Haider of J & K was acting as in 6 J ft K and ns per Major Khun All
the influence of local responsibility was to Adjutant Captain Mulumunad Khan Jara! as well as Huhsan, dismissed
Mirs/Rajas. maintain internal law and was Qua«t<rn»aster. Subedar Majm was senior most Subedar Jnn Alam and
order like police. Babar Khan. Naib Subedar Shah Khan was use to mostly keep Bahar on
Jemadar to Adjutant and in the Platton of patrolling, Babar Khan used Io
Subedar Saifullah. often complain about the nostalgic
Raja Punial Few individuals Punial Personal Job of Very Less Raja Punial, a trusted aide of Maharaja attitude of Brown to Major Hassan. .
Body Guard probably 15 to 30 Raja
Brigadier 3 Gilgit Fully trained 100%
Gharsara Soldiers enemy
with his two 56%
orderlies own
6J&K Sikhs- 600, Initially It was responsible for the A highly combat Lieutenant Colonel Majeed according to 36% Major Nek Alam, who initially was
Infantry Dogras – 100 complete security of the Northern worthy war Captain Saeed and Lieutenant Haider had own loyal to Dogra regime in a letter
Batallion Muslims- 400 Batallion at regions for Kashmir tested unit with no warmth for Pakistan and was only 64% and Lieutenant Haider in his
Buriji Later state.Initially D Company the mission to interested in pensionary/service- benefits enemy memoirs mentioned that Hassan
A and B companies - All only three to of it was moved from tight in any besides. among Muslim Officers only Major had won all the Muslim elements to
Sikh officers four Platoons Snnagar. letter rest of 6 J weather and Hassan Khan was significant, he had won the extent that Honorary Captain
and Jawans. moved to ft- K was rushed from terrain at any over all Muslim elements of the Regiment Ghulab Din the head clerk of the
Balistan and Noushera to Srinagar and time. The Unfortunately Major Ehsan Ali Bunji arrived Regiment and blue eyed of the
C&D companies – Jawans Ladakh then Bunji to rest the Commanding Bunji from Srinagar on 29th October along Commanding Officer sided with
Muslims but all officers revolted D Company Officer with his family and reported his arrival on Hassan.
except Major Hassan Lieutenant 30 October, when he was appointed OC HQ
Sikhs. Colonel Abdul Company. On the morning of this day a D-
Majeed was a Day and H-Hour to strike was decided.
HQ Company – Mix, MG highly capable Maior Mohammad Khan himself admits to
and Mior Platoons, and professional be new in Bunji at the time of revolt and had
Muslim And Company - officer, who was little acquaintance with Muslim troops.
Sikhs/Dogras commanding Lieutenant Nadir Ali was Deputy of Hassan
Reinforcement Company since 1942. in 6 J & K.
- Sikhs/Dogras.
Indian 3000-4000 Srinagar After Maharaja’s
Brigadier accession decision of the
State with India on 28
October 1947 and
consequent induction of
Indian troops in Kashmir,
there was a very strong
possibility of India
sending a Brigade in the
region to control
Tanzeem-e-e Unknown – few notables Gilgit Molding
expectedPublic opinion
revolution. Nil
Sarfaroshan who fater success of the
revolt declared its
existence.

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EPILOGUE

Before the seizure of the initiative of these during the first and most vulnerable three years
selfless, dedicated and true Muslim leaders or of its inception. The Rawalpindi Conspiracy
in other words, before arrival of Major Case epitomized this conflict of interest. It was
Aslam/Colonel Pasha (assumed name) as not until Gen Gracey and the rest of the British
Pakistan Army representative, all the fleeing high Command was to depart from South Asia
Sikh/Dogras had been captured, huge that Ayub, Sikandar and Liaqat were briefed by
merchandise for winters on sizeable animal Gracey regarding “Men in the Army who held
caravan was seized in Traghbal-Gurez Valley recalcitrant views.”
and entry into Baltistan was made. Major
Concluded.
Genera Palit mentions, “Captain Nek Alam of C
Company had intercepted and forwarded to
Army Headquarters, Srinagar, two letters from
Captain Hassan Khan (a defector, it will be
remembered, in Gilgit) urging the Mslim troops
at Skardu to take and hold the Garrison until
arrival of support from Gilgit.” The subsequent
events were unique and involved astounding
human qualities at work against each other on
the internal as well as external fronts. The long
drawn fourteen months war of liberation for
Kashmir ended with many frustrations for die-
heart Kashmir fan Muslim officers of Pakistan
Army. They believed that each day of ceasefire
in Kashmir as per British designs helped
consolidate the Indian position, while
undermining that of Pakistan. Such like-minded
officers including Hassan were nabbed
together in a so-called Rawalpindi Conspiracy
Case and their record in Kashmir was tampered
with. The linchpin of the entire tragedy is the
fact that Pakistan retained British Generals in
the highest command of its Armed Forces
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