Slender was the Thread: Kashmir Confrontation, 1947–48

Contents: Preface. 1. A vulnerable prize. 2. Did no Briton know? 3. Delhi caught off guard. 4. Lights go out in the valley. 5. On wings of courage. 6. Command of 161 brigade. 7. Anxious vigil at the airfield. 8. The battle of Shalateng. 9. Baramula retaken. 10. To Uri, but not on to Domel. 11. Diversion to Poonch. 12. Holding the Uri bowl. 13. Hazards of snow. 14. Psychological warfare. 15. Foiling encirclement. 16. The move to Leh. 17. Brickbats for bouquets. 18. The limber Nullah battle. 19. An offensive without teeth. 20. Limited but precious gains. 21. Advantage thrown away. 22. A costly legacy. Index.

On 22 October 1947, tribal raiders from the North-West Frontier descended on the Kashmir Valley. Their attacks included plunder, killings, and pillage; their objective, to devastate the Valley and seize Srinagar.

To combat the impending crisis, in late October 1947 a battalion of the Indian Army was flown into the Kashmir Valley at virtually a moment’s notice. Further units followed, eventually establishing itself as the historic 161 Infantry Brigade. Snowbound and isolated, this Brigade played a key role in defending the Valley and ejecting the invaders.

This book brings to life the unforgettable story of the 161 Infantry Brigade’s struggles in the Kashmir Valley. Narrated by its commander, Lt. General ‘Bogey’ Sen, the book provides a wealth of detail. General Sen also makes crucial observations on the larger political motives for and implications of the Kashmir conflict, which has changed the course of South Asian geopolitics.

This book places on record the events that took place in Kashmir during 1947–48, the first time that Indian soldiers fought under Indian commanders at every level.