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Introduction to Asim Munir's Promotion

Asim Munir, the newly appointed Field Marshal of Pakistan, is not the only military leader whose promotion followed a defeat against India. Historically, several military chiefs in Pakistan have seen their status elevated after confrontations with India, with some even reaching the highest constitutional office in the country. This article delves into the stories of these military leaders.

Pervez Musharraf's Ascendancy

During the Kargil conflict, Pervez Musharraf held the position of army chief. His actions led to the Pakistani military's incursion into Kargil, which resulted in a significant defeat for Pakistan at the hands of India. According to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, around 4,000 Pakistani soldiers lost their lives in this conflict.

Following the defeat, a coup occurred in Pakistan, allowing Musharraf to seize power. He subsequently became the dominant figure in the country, although public discontent eventually forced him to resign.

General Bakhtiar's Military Command

In 1965, a war broke out between India and Pakistan, with Lieutenant General Bakhtiar Rana commanding the 1 Corps, which was Pakistan's frontline. Under his leadership, the Pakistani forces suffered a severe defeat.

After India's victory in the 1965 war and the subsequent Tashkent Agreement, Bakhtiar was sidelined initially. However, he was later appointed as army chief in 1971, benefiting from the aftermath of the conflict six years later.

General Bajwa's Extended Tenure

General Qamar Javed Bajwa was appointed as the chief of the Pakistan Army in 2016. Following India's surgical strike in 2019, which coincided with the end of his term, the Pakistani government decided to extend his tenure, allowing him to remain in the position until 2022.

Asim Munir's Reaction to India's Attack

Reports from Pakistani media indicate that during India's strike on Noor Base in Rawalpindi, Asim Munir was asleep at his residence. Following the attack, he reportedly took refuge in a bunker, remaining there until the assault ceased. This incident marks the first time a Pakistani army chief has been reported to have hidden in a bunker during an attack.

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