In a deeply emotional and dignified tribute, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha visited the family of Syed Adil Hussain Shah in Hapatnar, Anantnag. Adil, a 28-year-old pony handler, had laid down his life while protecting tourists during the brutal terror attack at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025. During the visit, LG Sinha handed over a government job appointment letter to Adil’s wife, Mst. Gulnaz Akhter, on compassionate grounds—an act that reflects not only official recognition of Adil’s bravery but also the nation’s collective gratitude for a life lived with courage and selflessness. Syed Adil Hussain’s final moments captured the essence of Kashmiriyat—compassion, courage, and communal harmony. As gunfire erupted, he tried to shield terrified tourists and even attempted to disarm one of the attackers. He was fatally shot, but his selfless intervention saved lives. He was the only local Kashmiri and Muslim among the 26 victims, and his sacrifice sent a powerful message across the country—a reminder of the unbreakable spirit that exists even in the face of terror. LG Manoj Sinha, while interacting with the family, described Adil as a true hero of Kashmir whose sacrifice would never be forgotten. He said the appointment of Gulnaz Akhter to a government post was a step toward providing stability and dignity to the martyr’s family. He assured that the administration would continue to stand by them and extend all necessary support. Adil’s wife, the primary beneficiary of this gesture, expressed gratitude through quiet dignity, knowing her husband’s courage had not gone unnoticed. The family had earlier received substantial support from the government. On May 1, 2025, Adil’s brother, Nazakat Ahmad, was also given a government job by the J&K Waqf Board on compassionate grounds. The family was honoured with a posthumous Bravery Award for Adil, and financial assistance was provided by the Ministry of Home Affairs through the J&K administration, further supported by various state governments. These efforts reflect the administration’s larger commitment to ensuring that families of martyrs are not left behind. Adil’s father, Syed Haider Shah, spoke with visible emotion. “We are proud of Adil. He gave his life protecting others. The government’s support gives us some strength to carry on. This job for my daughter-in-law will help us live with self-respect,” he said. The family, including Adil’s mother, Bibi Jaan, and his sisters, continue to grieve, but the nation’s recognition has brought them a sense of pride and belonging. The Pahalgam terror attack, among the most tragic in recent memory, was widely condemned across India. The image of a local Kashmiri youth sacrificing his life to protect visitors touched a national nerve. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah attended Adil’s funeral and saluted his courage, promising complete support to his family. On June 6, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a public address, praised Adil’s extraordinary bravery and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to fight terrorism while upholding the values of unity and sacrifice. Public response has been overwhelming. On social media, tributes to Adil have poured in, with users across the country hailing him as a real-life hero and praising the administration’s swift and sensitive response. His story has become a powerful reminder that heroism knows no religion or boundary—it is defined by actions taken for others, often at great personal cost. The J&K administration continues to support Adil’s family with long-term welfare measures, including educational support for his siblings and financial aid for the household. LG Sinha’s personal visit, accompanied by senior officials, emphasised the government’s commitment to honouring the sacrifices of its people. The administration has also reinforced its counter-terrorism efforts, vowing to bring the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice. Syed Adil Hussain’s story stands as a timeless example of courage and humanity. His sacrifice has left an indelible mark on the conscience of a nation, and his legacy will live on—not just in official records and awards, but in the hearts of every citizen moved by his selfless act. His name joins the roll call of the brave, reminding all that in Kashmir, even in the shadow of fear, humanity shines through.
