The Battle that Saved Srinagar in 1947

On November 7, 1947, the Battle of Shalteng, near Srinagar, Kashmir became a pivotal clash in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–48, ultimately preserving Srinagar from advancing Pakistani forces

(Kashmir Re’Chords Exclusive)

Seventy-seven years ago, this day  On November 7, 1947, the Battle of Shalateng, near Srinagar, Kashmir unfolded in the outskirts of Srinagar, marking a decisive turn in the first Indo-Pakistani War (1947–48). The battle, one of the most critical engagements of the conflict, effectively halted a large-scale Pakistani offensive aimed at Srinagar, allowing Indian forces to launch a powerful counterattack. Today, this clash is remembered as a turning point that changed the face of the war and helped secure Kashmir for India.

The tribal raiders, composed largely of Pathan tribesmen from Pakistan, began their advance into Kashmir in late October 1947, following the Maharaja’s signing of the Instrument of Accession on October 26, 1947. With Uri and Baramulla already under their control, the raiders were on the brink of seizing Srinagar itself, looting, killing, and terrorizing local populations as they advanced.

The battle preparations intensified following the engagement at Budgam on November 3, 1947  where Indian forces halted the Pakistani tribal forces, securing Srinagar’s airport for additional reinforcements. An aerial patrol on November 6 detected large groups of Pakistani tribal forces assembling near Shalateng Srinagar, revealing that an imminent assault on Srinagar was underway.

In response, Indian commanders devised a strategy to encircle and neutralize the raiders. Troops from the 1 Sikh, 1 Kumaon, and 4 Kumaon regiments, supported by the Royal Indian Air Force (now IAF), moved into strategic positions around Shalateng. The plan involved a flanking manoeuvre, with armoured cars from the seven Light Cavalry positioned to strike the tribal forces from behind, catching them in a pincer movement.

The Battle of Swift, Decisive Engagement

At dawn on November 7, 1947, Indian forces launched their assault. Spitfire aircraft from the Royal Indian Air Force strafed enemy positions, while ground troops advanced from multiple directions, surrounding the raiders. The unexpected manoeuvre took the Pakistani tribal forces by surprise; they were quickly overwhelmed, sustaining heavy casualties. Over 600 enemy combatants were killed and large quantities of arms, ammunition, and supplies were left behind as the remaining forces fled towards Baramulla.

By the evening, Indian troops had reclaimed the town of Pattan, and by November 8, they had reached Baramulla. Over the next few days, Indian forces continued their advance, recapturing key positions up to Uri by November 13, thus regaining control of much of the Kashmir Valley.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

The Battle of Shalateng marked a significant victory for India, shifting the momentum of the war and securing Srinagar. The success of the Indian Army at Shalateng was pivotal in retaining the Kashmir Valley, strengthening India’s strategic position in the conflict. Lieutenant General L.P. Sen, commander of the 161 Infantry Brigade, later documented the battle in his book Slender Was the Thread, describing the tense days and swift military action that protected Srinagar and its people from further violence.

The battle also underscored the collaboration between Indian military forces and local Kashmiri support, which was instrumental in the success of this operation. The Battle of Shalateng  also remains a powerful symbol of the determination, strategy, and sacrifice that defined India’s early years of independence, embodying a legacy of resilience and tactical prowess.