14 August – The Pakistan Independence Day

Celebrations for the Independence Day 2021 – 75th Independence Day for Pakistanis Pakistan came into existence as a result of the Pakistan movement that aimed at forming a separate homeland for Muslims. This movement was led by the All-India Muslim League under the leadership of Quaid-eAzam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. Pakistan was established in two wings; West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). According to the Islamic calendar, we achieved independence on the 27th of Ramadan, the eve of which known as Layl-tul-Qadr is very sacred for Muslims. The main independence day event takes place in Islamabad where flag hoisting is done in the Presidential and Parliament buildings. It is then followed by the national anthem and speeches by the prominent national leaders. Other events and festivities also take place which include cultural events, flag raising, national songs and patriotic tableaus. Award ceremonies also take place during this day and the people of the homeland show their love for the country by raising flags at the top of their homes or on their vehicles and other attire.

History

The area which now comprises Pakistan was a part of British empire during most of the 19th century. The British got hold of the sub-continent by establishing the East India Company. The War of Independence 1857 put the sub-continent under the direct crown of the British. All-India Muslim League was formed at Dhaka in 1906 for demanding a separate homeland for the Muslims. After World War 1, many Indian activists got into action. There were nationwide non-cooperation movements and civil disobedience. The idea of a separate Muslim homeland was given by Allama Muhammad Iqbal in his speech on December 1930 as the President of All-India Muslim League. Three years later, the name “Pakistan” for a separate Muslim homeland was given by Chaudhry Rehmat Ali. It comprised of five units; Punjab, Afghania, Kashmir, Sindh and Balochistan. Like Iqbal, Bengal was left out by Chaudhry Rehmat Ali in his proposal. During 1940s the independence movement intensified and Muhammad Ali Jinnah was the most prominent leader. For a long time the feeling between Muslims and Hindus had started intensifying. All-India Muslim League was the driving force for creating a separate homeland for Muslims in SouthAsia. On 23rd March 1940, Lahore Resolution was passed which focused on demanding a separate homeland for Muslims. This is why 23rd March is now recognized as Pakistan Day.

Independence

After World War 2, the British realized that now they didn’t have enough British Army and resources to rule restless British India as their sources were already exhausted. Thus, they decided to end their rule over rebellious British India. In 1946, The India National Congress, demanded a single state being a secular party. The All-India Muslim League opposed this suggestion and gave the separation of Pakistan as an alternative. Efforts were carried out by the British Government to bring peace between the two parties but all went in vain and riots started in SouthAsia.

In February 1947, the Prime Minister, Clement Attlee announced that the India will be given independence no earlier than June, 1948. On 3rd June 1947, it was announced that the British India would be divided into two separate states. The two successor governments will be given dominion status. Lord Mount Batten chose 15th August as the date for transmission of power. He chose 14th August as the date of power transfer to Pakistan as he wanted to attend the ceremonies in both the countries.

Thus, the subcontinent was divided into the Republic of India and The Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Boundaries were established between the two countries. The partition led to a massive massacre. 15 million people migrated towards their homeland according to their religion following the months of partition.

On 14th August 1947, the Dominion of Pakistan was established and Muhammad Ali Jinnah became the first Governor General in Karachi. Independence was marked with great celebrations.

The Date of Independence

The partition took place in the midnight of 14-15 August, so 15th August 1947 was considered as the date of Independence. The Act confirmed this date.

Jinnah also stated the same date in his first radio broadcast.

Celebrations

Independence Day is one of the six national holidays and is celebrated across the country. Meetings are held in Government offices by diplomats, officials and politicians before the day. Government bodies and educational institutions arrange different sport activities, cultural and social events for the day. In Karachi, the Mazar-e-Quaid is cleaned up for the celebrations.

Celebrations start with hoisting of flags in the Presidential and Parliamentary office. The President and Prime Minister of Pakistan address the nation in live telecasts. Government officials and politicians make speeches in different rallies and events in which they appreciate the sacrifices of our national heroes and discuss the future goals. Main buildings like the President House etc are lightened up. A change of guard takes place at the National Monuments. The Airforce, Army and Navy feature in independence day parades. Flag hoisting ceremony in the city is carried out by the Mayor and by senior officials in different private and public sectors.