10/10/2026
A Fatherâs Legacy, A Soldierâs Brotherhood: BSF Stands With Martyrsâ Families on Their Childrenâs Wedding Days
Peerzada Sayeed | KARNAH, KUPWARA
Some bonds transcend time, distance and even death. In the border areas of Karnah, the Border Security Force (BSF) has once again demonstrated that the relationship between a soldier and his force extends far beyond the uniform, remaining alive through compassion, brotherhood and unwavering support for the families of those who served the nation.
In two deeply moving instances, the BSFâs support for the families of two brave soldiers, Late Rafiq Ahmad of Gabra and the late Mohammad Mashkoor of Tangdhar, has highlighted the enduring bond between the force and its personnel, even after their passing.
BSF Honours Late Rafiq Ahmadâs Family in Gabra
The heartwarming gesture was witnessed in Gabra village of Karnah, where personnel of the 31 BSF reached the home of Late Rafiq Ahmad on the occasion of his daughter Mahidaâs wedding. Rafiq Ahmad, a resident of Gabra, served in the Border Security Force and died of a heart attack in Shillong in 2007.
Nearly two decades after his passing, his daughterâs wedding became an occasion for his BSF family to reaffirm that his service, sacrifice and memory remain alive. Senior officers and personnel met the family, presented wedding gifts and extended assistance with arrangements for the ceremony.
The gesture brought comfort and reassurance to the family on a momentous occasion. It also reflected the spirit of brotherhood that continues to connect serving personnel with the families of their departed colleagues.
Rafiq Ahmadâs legacy is carried forward by his children, as his son Aadil and daughter Mahida are also serving in the Border Security Force, continuing their fatherâs association with the force and his commitment to the nation.
Remembering Mohammad Mashkoor of Tangdhar
A similar emotional story is associated with Mohammad Mashkoor, a BSF Constable from Tangdhar, Karnah, who served with the 170 Battalion of the Border Security Force at Shillong and passed away on 8 August 2023.
As his son, Adil Mashkoor, begins a new chapter of life through marriage, the absence of his father is deeply felt. A fatherâs presence, guidance and blessings on a wedding day are irreplaceable. Yet, the values, memories and legacy of a soldier remain a source of strength and pride for his family.
The occasion brings into focus the importance of standing beside the families of those who dedicated their lives to the service of the nation. The support extended by the BSF to Martyr Rafiq Ahmadâs family in Gabra reflects the same spirit of care and solidarity that gives meaning to the bond between a force and its personnel.
A Bond Beyond the Uniform
The people of Karnah have long witnessed instances in which security forces have stood alongside local residents during emergencies, fire incidents, difficult circumstances and important family occasions. Such gestures strengthen mutual trust and underline the human side of the relationship between the security forces and border communities.
For a daughter or son, the absence of a father on a wedding day leaves an emptiness that can never truly be filled. However, the presence and support of fellow soldiers can offer a powerful reminder that the departed soldierâs service and memory have not been forgotten.
The BSFâs gesture in Gabra conveyed a heartfelt message: a soldier may leave this world, but his family is never forgotten. The uniform represents not only duty and discipline but also a bond of responsibility, respect and brotherhood that continues beyond a soldierâs lifetime.
Local residents appreciated the compassionate gesture, describing it as an inspiring example of solidarity between the security forces and the people of Karnah. Such acts of kindness carry particular significance in border areas, where relationships built on trust, sacrifice and mutual support remain deeply valued.
As Mahida and Adil Mashkoor begin new chapters of their lives, their fathersâ memories continue to live on through their families and the wider community. Their stories remind us that the true legacy of a soldier is measured not only by years of service but also by the values he leaves behind and the bonds that endure after his passing.
May Allah bless Mahida and Adil Mashkoor with happiness, peace, love and prosperity in their married lives. May Allah grant the departed souls the highest place in Jannah and give their families strength, comfort and patience. Ameen.
The soldiers may be gone, but their legacy lives on. Salute to the brave sons of Karnah who served the nation with honour.
