As we celebrate Pakistan Day on March 23, we extend our sincere gratitude to the courageous officers and troops of our illustrious Armed Forces. Also known as Pakistan Resolution Day, it commemorates the momentous adoption of the Pakistan Resolution on 23 March 1940, at Minto Park, which is today known as Iqbal Park. The day is celebrated nationwide throughout Pakistan. Under the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Muslim leaders from all over India came together for the occasion.
As we consider this historic occasion, we recognize that although Pakistan attained official independence on 14 August 1947, its conceptual foundations were laid on 23 March 1940. The quest for the establishment of Pakistan was sparked by this resolution, which was conceived by the visionary leaders Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Pakistan separated Muslim-majority areas from India and became an independent state within seven years of this resolution. The Muslim awakening was started by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Allama Iqbal provided the philosophical foundation, and the Quaid-i-Azam turned it into political reality. This is how Pakistan’s ideological framework came to be throughout time. Iqbal’s understanding of Islam, which rejects the idea of a theocratic state and promotes democracy as the preferred political system, is fundamental to his vision of a modern Islamic state. He highlighted minorities’ equal rights and envisioned an Islamic “spiritual democracy” being established.
Two essential components of a modern Islamic state are the upholding of the law and the creation of an autonomous judiciary. Islamic law pertaining to routine matters (Muamlaat) has to be updated to reflect the needs of the modern world. The social structure of Islam is built on “Ijtehad,” which mandates that choices about legislation be ratified by consensus (“Ijma”) using a majority vote. As Iqbal goes deeper into the Qur’an, he finds an underlying concept of “Social Democracy” within its verses, one that economics may help develop into legislation. Progressive legislation in these areas can help create a welfare state that is friendly to the middle class.
Indian Muslims’ demand for separate electorates resulted from their recognition of their unique identity from Hindus and their concerns about their safety in a democratic India where Hindus made up the majority. To enable Muslims to live according to the precepts of the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), they petitioned for a sovereign state in places where they were the majority. They also wanted to create their own state in order to strengthen unity among Muslim countries.
The 23rd March parade is not just ceremonial; it also serves as a reminder of the Pakistan Army’s important role in preserving peace on the inside as well as the outside. Internally, the army is vital to upholding law and order, fighting terrorism, and guaranteeing the security of the populace. Through its involvement in UN-sponsored peacekeeping operations, it promotes regional stability on the outside. Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar demonstrates Pakistan’s resolve to protect its interests and firmly counter any provocations or threats.Â
If Pakistan had never come into being, the treatment of Muslims, Christians and Sikhs in India could have reflected the discrimination seen under the current administration led by Narendra Modi. One dramatic example is the marginalization and persecution of Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs in Manipur. Events like the 2019 passage of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which gives non-Muslim refugees from nearby nations a route to Indian citizenship, have prompted large-scale demonstrations and accusations of discrimination based on religion. In addition, tensions and worries about human rights have increased since Jammu and Kashmir’s special status was taken away in 2019 when Article 370 was repealed.
The number of reports of mob violence against Muslims and other religious minorities has increased recently, with many lynchings and attacks on mosques and churches. The social fabric has been further frayed and interfaith tensions have increased due to the prevalence of hate speech and communal polarization fostered by extremist ideas. The relevance of Pakistan’s existence as a safe haven for various religious communities is highlighted by the possibility that the situation of religious minorities in India would have been considerably worse in the absence of Pakistan as a distinct entity offering refuge for Muslims.
The 23rd March parade holds profound significance for Pakistan, serving as a poignant display of the nation’s military prowess and instilling a sense of pride and confidence among its citizens. This annual event shows the ability of the Pakistani military forces to protect the country’s interests and maintain its sovereignty. It is a monument to their might, discipline, and readiness. The unveiling of homegrown military hardware by Pakistan’s state-owned Heavy Industries Taxila, which include the Haider Main Battle Tank, and the Multiple Barrel Rocket Launcher Fatah-II, is one of the parade’s highlights. It demonstrates the nation’s defense technological advancements and dedication.
he 23rd March parade is not just ceremonial; it also serves as a reminder of the Pakistan Army’s important role in preserving peace on the inside as well as the outside. Internally, the army is vital to upholding law and order, fighting terrorism, and guaranteeing the security of the populace. Through its involvement in UN-sponsored peacekeeping operations, it promotes regional stability on the outside. Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar demonstrates Pakistan’s resolve to protect its interests and firmly counter any provocations or threats. By conducting such operations, the Pakistan Army ensures the safety and well-being of the Pakistani people by sending a clear message to any aggressor that any attempt to compromise the security of the country will be met with a strong and decisive response.
