Vir Chakra (VrC)

On 19 June 1948, Civilian Zuma Mohammad was one of a party carrying ammunition and rations which accompanied Lieutenant Colonel N M Khanna, Commander 4 Kumaon, from Pandoo Hill to another feature. The party consisted of half a section plus a small Tactical HQ. On the way party was ambushed by a full company of enemy troops. In the encounter, the majority of our men were killed and Lieutenant Colonel Khanna was also severely wounded and took refuge in a broken hut. Zuma Mohammad offered to carry the officer on his back to the Headquarters, but due to the seriousness of the wounds, he could not be lifted. So Zuma Mohd. stayed with the officer at great personal risk for several hours, knowing full well that the enemy was likely to return. On regaining consciousness, Lieutenant Colonel Khanna gave him a message, which he carried at great personal risk through the enemy dominated area. Zuma Mohammad showed great bravery and determination as without his efforts the life of the officer would not have been saved.