Skardu's Lion: Sher Jung Thapa's Six-Month Stand in 1948 War

• Lt. Col. Sher Jung Thapa led the 6th J&K Infantry in a six-month siege of Skardu during the 1947-48 Jammu & Kashmir war.
• With a small garrison of ~130 men, Thapa defended Skardu against a superior enemy force (600-700 attackers) from February to August 1948.
• Despite dwindling supplies, harsh conditions, and no reinforcements, Thapa's leadership ensured the fort held, protecting hundreds of civilians.
• The garrison surrendered in August 1948 to protect remaining civilians; most soldiers were massacred, but Thapa survived as a POW.
• Thapa was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his "inspiring leadership" and "exceptional devotion to duty" at Skardu, a story of resilience and courage.

Why It Matters: It reveals how one man's heroic stand bought crucial time for a collapsing frontier.