Ms Mukhtiar went against all odds and proved her passion
ISLAMABAD: This is apropos the editorial appearing in this newspaper on November 27, titled, “The sky’s the limit”. The heart-wrenching martyrdom of the brave Marium Mukhtiar is a loss for the whole nation. It was not until 2006 that the Pakistan Air Force started enrolling women as fighter pilots. Seven women broke into the country’s most exclusive club that had been closed to them for six decades. Female participation in the workforce is seen less as a taboo now. Previously, with Pakistan being a patriarchal society and with family pressures against working in the traditionally male-dominated field of the air force, women were not welcome into this highly prestigious field.
Over the last decade, attitudes towards working women have improved and now, about 316 women work in the air force. However, most female soldiers in the world, including Pakistani women, are still barred from ground combat. In reality, most girls in our society don’t even think of doing such a thing like flying an aircraft. Ms Mukhtiar went against all odds and proved her passion. She, too, faced family pressures of working with male counterparts, but her will kept her firm on her stance. She died creating a difference. Her martyrdom is an inspiration for women who don’t even know their rights. Women should opt for careers and being financially independent as that is one way to empower themselves. The spark in Ms Mukhtiar’s mother’s eyes when she said she was proud of her daughter, is the biggest gift a daughter can give.
I, being a daughter and proud Pakistani citizen, salute Ms Mukhtiar for her courage and services. I pray for her co-pilot, Squadron Leader Saqib Abbasi, to get well soon. I also request the government to reward her with an appropriate award. May her soul rest in peace.
Abeer Shahzadi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 2nd, 2015.
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