According to a report in a section of the press the Pakistan Army after the funeral prayer of one of the martyrs of Gayari tragedy, Major Zaka-ul-Haq on June 5, had declared all the victims of Gayari as ‘Shuhada’ (martyrs). This was done due keeping in view the aspects related to socio-religious dimensions/implications, requirements to initiate the process of documentation, and reduction of the sufferings of the bereaved families. This step taken by the Pakistan Army is highly appreciated. I suggest that a Minar-e-Shuhada be constructed at Islamabad and names of all those who sacrificed their lives in defence of Pakistan after 14th August 1947 in any military operation, during Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971 and during the ongoing ‘war on terror’ in Pakistan and were declared as ‘Shuhada’ (martyrs) by the Government of Pakistan be inscribed around the base of the Minar-e-Shuhada. Flags of all the three services are hosted and smartly turned out guards from Army, Navy and Air Force may also be mounted at the Minar. A wreath laying ceremony may also be held on Defence Day of Pakistan at the Minar-e-Shuhada. This will make the nation to remember their Shuhada and will also be a symbol of pride for Pakistani nation. Minar-e-Shuhada will also become a place for tourist attraction and a place for visiting foreign dignitaries.
SQN LDR (RETD) S. AUSAF HUSAIN,
Karachi, June 11.