KARACHI: After the funeral prayer of one of the martyrs of the Giari tragedy, Major Zakaul Haq, the army declared all victims of Gayari as ‘shuhada’. This was done keeping in mind the fact that many weeks had passed since the tragedy occurred and chances of finding any survivors were next to nothing. It was also done so that the families of those who were martyred could accept closure and move on with their lives. This step taken by the Pakistan Army is highly appreciated.
Also, I suggest that a Minar-e-Shuhada be constructed in Islamabad and names of all those who sacrificed their lives in the defense of Pakistan since its creation, whether it was during the 1965 or 1971 wars or during the ongoing ‘war on terror’, should be inscribed on its base. Flags of all three services should be hoisted and smartly turned out guards from them should also be deployed at the monument. Furthermore, every Pakistan Defense Day, a wreath-laying ceremony should be conducted. This will make the nation remember its martyrs and will be a symbol of pride for the Pakistani nation.
It will also help us to realise the sacrifices that those serving in the armed forces make so that ordinary Pakistanis can live secure and safe lives.
Sqn-Ldr (retd) S Ausaf Husain
Published in The Express Tribune, June 11th, 2012.
