5,000 Pakistani soldiers resign amid fear of Indian retaliation

Amid escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border, the Pakistani Army is witnessing an unprecedented wave of resignations. In just two days, around 5,000 officers and soldiers have reportedly quit, sending shockwaves through the military establishment. The sudden flood of resignations is largely attributed to the growing fear of an Indian counterstrike following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Families of Pakistani soldiers have been pressuring their loved ones to leave the army, fearing that India could launch a powerful military operation at any moment. Some soldiers themselves, apprehensive about their safety, are choosing to step away from active duty. Reports suggest many soldiers have already returned home, while many others are preparing to resign in the coming days.

Top Pakistani military officers are raising alarm bells. Lieutenant General Umar Bukhari, Commander of the 11th Corps, has reportedly written to Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, warning that the morale of the troops is crumbling. He emphasized that if the wave of resignations continues, Pakistan’s military might be unable to mount any meaningful resistance in case of conflict with India.

Data indicates that approximately 200 officers and 600 soldiers from the western border’s 12th Corps have resigned. In the Force Northern Command Area, over 100 officers and nearly 500 soldiers have left their posts. Similarly, the Mangal Corps deployed along the LoC has seen around 75 officers and more than 500 soldiers tender their resignations.

The panic within the ranks intensified after the Pahalgam attack, where 26 people, including tourists, were killed by terrorists believed to be backed by Pakistan-based outfits. Following the attack, the Indian government suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan and vowed tough retribution. The fear of a full-scale Indian offensive has led many Pakistani soldiers’ families to urge their return home.

Despite efforts by Pakistan Army's top brass to halt the mass resignations and boost morale, the trend shows no signs of slowing. An air of fear and uncertainty now hangs heavily over the Pakistani military as it struggles to maintain cohesion amid growing external and internal pressures.