What Independence Day means

And how not to ruin it

Nations who at a certain point of their history have remained under subjugation of the colonial powers and then gained their independence through freedom movements, do celebrate their independence days every year, solemnised with pomp and parades, shows, sports, bells, bonfires and illuminations. But the spirit of Independence Day is not all about rituals and merrymaking, it is actually about celebrating the values that the country was founded upon, remembering the sacrifices made by its architects and the people, reaffirming allegiance to the cherished goals of independence, recreating history that brought about the miracle of independence, pledging to consolidate the gains of independence, paying tributes to the founding fathers and exhibiting patriotism by the citizens by refraining from any act that promotes divisions and animosities within the society.

Nations either progress or regress depending upon the commitment to the ideals and principles of independence or lack of it. For the Pakistani nation the ideals and principles of independence are enshrined in the Pakistan Resolution adopted on 23^rd March, 1940, and the vision bequeathed by the Quaid in regards to the course Pakistan was destined to follow. Pakistan Resolution emphasised provincial autonomy, rule of law, equality of citizens and protection of the rights of the minorities. Jinnah wanted Pakistan to be a democracy, taking inspiration from the lofty principles of Islam but not a theocratic state.

His slogan of “Unity, Faith and Discipline” and the famous words uttered by him “United we stand, divided we fall” are the pillars on which he wanted to erect the edifice that he envisioned. He was intensely aware of the fact that in a country with distinct cultural entities and regions, the only way Pakistan could move on the path towards its destiny successfully, was an impregnable unity among its people. He was conscious of the fact that building a nation into a vibrant and sustainable entity was much more arduous and thorny than the struggle to win freedom. As is evident from the foregoing, he wanted to construct Pakistan as a progressive democratic country, deriving strength and inspiration from the lofty Islamic principles of brotherhood, equality and fraternity of man that form basic points of our religion, culture and civilisation.

Pakistan is at the crossroads and fighting for its survival, a situation which is a sequel to the shenanigans of the military dictators and self-seeking politicians and departure from the course chartered by the Quaid. While celebrating its independence this year, Pakistani nation needs greater and impregnable unity among all segments of the society and state institutions, more than ever before because it was at war with the enemies of the country from within. It was imperative to express solidarity and support for the soldiers who were sacrificing their lives to make our lives safe as well as to send a strong message to those challenging the writ of the state that the nation would not allow them to masquerade around unchallenged. Holding month-long celebrations in regards to independence as announced by the government (an unprecedented decision) is a very imaginative and positive step that would also provide a ranting testimony to the nation’s resolve and determination to pursue the principles and goals of independence more vigorously than ever, undeterred by the threats and actions of the terrorists, a befitting way of celebrating the Independence Day.

There is, however, a strong possibility of a backlash of the operation Zarb-e-Azab from the terrorists during these celebrations as suggested by intelligence reports and we are already witnessing such incidents in different parts of the country. In view of this probability, the government has already beefed up security all over the country to thwart the designs of the enemies. It has also been decided to hand over the security of Islamabad to the army for three months to make sure that the terrorists were not able to hit any target in the capital, as their success in doing so would raise myriad of questions about the ability and capacity of the government to deal with the phenomenon of terrorism, besides sending wrong signal to the outside world.

The country is indeed surrounded with grave dangers and an unusual situation which obligate the state to take all possible measures to defend its integrity and lives of the citizens through extraordinary steps as prescribed in the constitution for such situations. Some political elements are opposing this move by the government under article 245 of the constitution and the media and intelligentsia is also trying to read too much between the lines. What they need to appreciate is that the decision has been dictated by the cataclysmic circumstances warranting fool-proof security measures for the capital. Army is better oriented to deal with security issues than other law enforcing agencies and the government could not take any chance with regard to security of Islamabad. On the issue of defending Pakistan, the government must be extended unqualified support by all the political parties, rising above their narrow political interests.

They need to show a better sense of proportion in pursuing their political agendas. It is incumbent upon all the political leaders, including Imran Khan to participate in the Independence Day ceremony being organised by the government on the night between 13-14 August which would see the restoration of the military parade and fly-past by air force jets after many years. Reportedly the ceremony would be attended by military top brass, parliamentarians, government ministers and the members of the diplomatic community based in Islamabad. Participation of all the political leaders, who are surely being invited by the government, would be a strong gesture of support for our armed forces as well as a well required undertaking to boost Pakistan’s image around the globe.

Imran Khan is also better advised not to violate the sanctity of the Independence Day by holding a rally in Islamabad on 14^th August and creating a law and order situation, as is evident from his recent bellicose and threatening statements. There are legal and political options available to resolve the political issues. Reportedly the government is contemplating to form a committee to establish contacts with PTI leaders in this regard. There is no better way of resolving political issues than through dialogue. It is said that politics is the art of the possible. Therefore our political leaders should curb their proclivities to try the impossible.