Independence Day Celebrations and Fascism by the Government

Every year, Pakistanis around the globe celebrate their independence on August 14th. The day is marked with flag-hoisting ceremonies and gatherings that reflect national pride. Pakistanis wake up early to attend functions with enthusiasm. However, this year, something was different.

A Huge Presence at Independence Day Events

Pakistani communities have historically gathered in large numbers to commemorate their homeland’s independence. This year, the turnout was noticeably higher, with PTI supporters venturing out following the guidance of their leader, Imran Khan. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers were targeted nationwide, with police confiscating party flags and arresting hundreds of them on what was meant to be a day of celebration for the country’s freedom, not a day of political persecution for expressing dissent.

The huge attendance at these events should be a wake-up call for those in charge. The government must acknowledge that this anger is a reflection of the pain and discontent that many Pakistanis feel. Despite their frustration, Pakistanis are still celebrating their independence, albeit with a heavy heart. Their loyalty to the country remains steadfast, even as they express their displeasure with the political leadership.

Divine Justice Amidst Human Cruelty

At Murree’s GPO Chowk, the Independence Day ceremony was marred by a sense of irony. While some were celebrating the day with pride, others were facing humiliation. On one side, a banner of Imran Khan was torn down by the police in Lahore, while on the other side, Nawaz Sharif’s banner in Murree faced the public’s wrath. Shoes were thrown at his face, a stark reminder that the judgment of the people can be harsh. These contrasting events illustrate the unpredictable nature of public sentiment and divine justice.

The Army Chief’s Remarks on Digital Terrorism

In a recent address, the Army Chief condemned individuals who utilize social media to critique the government as “digital terrorists.” He emphasized that digital terrorism poses a significant threat to national security and advocated for stringent repercussions for those implicated.

This interpretation of digital activism as terrorism raises serious questions. Are individuals who raise their voices against injustice and call for accountability to be branded as terrorists? Or are they merely exercising their fundamental right to free speech, a right safeguarded by the Constitution of Pakistan?

The distinction between dissent and terrorism is increasingly unclear, posing grave threats to the future of free speech in Pakistan. Critics contend that the genuine peril to national security lies not with those seeking justice, but with those who adamantly ignore their calls.

The Story of a Mother’s Struggle in Lahore

On Independence Day, amidst nationwide celebrations, tales of despair also surfaced. In Lahore, a mother endured brutal treatment by the police. She was carrying the flag of Pakistan and the PTI flag when she was attacked. The officers, showing no respect for her or her symbols of national pride, tried to tear her clothes and humiliate her. This incident highlights the depths to which the authorities have sunk.

The police, once guardians of the community, have regrettably transformed into enforcers of oppression. This mother’s ordeal is not an anomaly; it mirrors a troubling pattern of law enforcement entities unjustly singling out regular individuals, including women and children, without consequence. The uniform, once synonymous with power and honor, now embodies intimidation and dread.

The Struggles of Owais Younis

Among those affected by the suppression of dissent is Owais Younis, a youthful PTI figure hailing from Lahore. Younis, a well-educated individual of modest means without any political lineage, was apprehended and subjected to severe mistreatment by law enforcement. His sole transgression was voicing his convictions and endorsing Imran Khan’s aspirations for Pakistan.

Younis’s narrative stands as a poignant symbol of the sacrifices made by everyday Pakistanis in the quest for justice and democracy. While the political elite navigates covertly, individuals like Younis bear the full weight of oppression.

Hamid Mir’s Analysis of the Army Chief’s Speech

Veteran journalist Hamid Mir offered his analysis of the Army Chief’s speech. He questioned whether the Quranic verse cited by the Army Chief was really about digital terrorism or about speaking truth to power. Mir asserts that the true essence of jihad lies in confronting oppressors and advocating for justice, aligning with the teachings of the Quran. He contends that branding peaceful demonstrators as terrorists not only lacks fairness but also misinterprets Islamic principles.

Mir highlighted the hypocrisy of the powerful elites, who endorse Islamic values while simultaneously oppressing the people, thus contradicting the principles they claim to uphold.

The Impact of the Internet Shutdown

To quell dissent, the government has resorted to shutting down the internet in numerous regions, resulting in dire repercussions for Pakistan’s burgeoning freelance economy. Thousands of young IT professionals who rely on international clients for work have been left jobless. The internet blackout has also affected communication and access to information, further isolating people.

Pakistan’s already beleaguered economy cannot afford such disruptions. The government’s actions are repelling foreign clients and investors, who are turning to countries like India for their business interests. This migration of talent and opportunities will further exacerbate Pakistan’s economic woes.

Fiverr, the most prominent freelance platform, has decided to delist Pakistan from its worldwide freelance network. Those individuals who were offering services on Fiverr will be unemployed immediately by the poor policies of Pakistani establishments.

Ramesh Kumar’s Warning

Ramesh Kumar, a prominent politician from Pakistan’s Hindu minority, recently made a dire prediction. He stated that the current government has only two months left to get its act together. If they fail, Imran Khan will return to power. Kumar’s statement reflects the growing frustration with the current regime’s inability to address the country’s problems.

The government’s use of force and intimidation to quash dissent is unsustainable. With deepening economic and political crises, faith in the current leadership is eroding. The return of Imran Khan, once a distant prospect, now appears increasingly probable.

Conclusion: A Country at a Crossroads

On the anniversary of Pakistan’s independence, the nation stands at a critical juncture. Faced with political turmoil, economic challenges, and a widening gap between the governed and the governing, August 14th serves as a poignant reflection of both Pakistan’s enduring strength and the formidable obstacles on the horizon.

The tales of everyday Pakistanis, such as the mother in Lahore and Owais Younis, along with the struggles of IT professionals deprived of internet access, underscore the human toll of the ongoing political unrest. Despite their voices being frequently suppressed, they embody the genuine resilience of Pakistan—a spirit that remains unyielding.

Ultimately, the fate of Pakistan lies in the hands of its people. Be it through peaceful protests, digital activism, or unwavering hope, they persist in the quest for a brighter future. Amidst the country’s challenges, one truth endures: the pursuit of justice and liberty is an ongoing battle.