Gilgit-Baltistan celebrates Independence Day with patriotic fervour
The 79th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan was celebrated across all 10 districts on Sunday with traditional enthusiasm, patriotic spirit and renewed commitment to the ideals of freedom and accession to Pakistan.
The day began with special prayers in mosques for the peace, prosperity and progress of the country and for the eternal peace of the departed souls of martyrs.
A 21-gun salute was also presented in the morning under the auspices of the Pakistan Army to mark the historic occasion.
The main ceremony was held at the historic Chinar Bagh in Gilgit, where Gilgit-Baltistan Governor Syed Mehdi Shah was the chief guest.
Chief Minister Haji Amjad Hussain, the Force Commander Northern Areas, senior civil and military officials, families of martyrs and a large number of citizens also attended the ceremony.
The Governor hoisted the national flag, while smartly turned-out contingents of police and security forces presented a salute.
Later, the governor, chief minister and force commander visited the Martyrs’ Memorial, laid floral wreaths and offered Fateha to pay tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of Gilgit-Baltistan from the Dogra rule on November 1, 1947.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Mehdi Shah paid rich tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs, saying that the courage and sacrifices of their forefathers had enabled the people of Gilgit-Baltistan to live in freedom.
He said the victory against Dogra rule was the result of the historic struggle and supreme sacrifices of local heroes.
Highlighting the role of the Pakistan armed forces, the governor said that the country’s armed forces had always responded effectively to enemy aggression and foiled hostile designs.
Referring to the recent Pakistan-India military confrontation, he stated that Pakistan’s armed forces had shot down more than seven Indian aircraft during the clashes.
He said the armed forces had always given a befitting response to aggression, safeguarding the country’s security and enabling people to sleep peacefully in their homes.
Chief Minister Amjad Hussain said the brave people of Gilgit-Baltistan had overthrown the oppressive Dogra regime despite limited resources and subsequently taken the historic decision to accede to Pakistan.
He said the sacrifices and spirit of patriotism of their forefathers would continue to inspire future generations.
Another impressive ceremony was held at Helipad Ground Jutial, where Governor Syed Mehdi Shah was the chief guest. Contingents of the Pakistan Army, Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts, police and other security institutions presented an impressive march past and military parade.
Students from various schools and colleges presented national songs and tableaux highlighting the historic freedom struggle of Gilgit-Baltistan, which were warmly applauded by the audience.
Similar ceremonies, flag-hoisting events, silent walks and sports activities were also organised in Skardu, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Astore and Shigar, as well as other district headquarters.
People from all walks of life participated enthusiastically in the celebrations and reaffirmed their commitment to national unity, defence of the country and the continued progress and prosperity of Gilgit-Baltistan.