News Desk
Quetta: Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has said that Pakistan’s Independence Day not only reminds the nation of the great sacrifices of its forefathers but, this year, carries exceptional significance as the country celebrates a decisive victory against an enemy “seven times stronger in power yet drowned in arrogance.”
Speaking at the 78th Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony held at the Provincial Assembly’s lush green lawn, CM Bugti paid tribute to the courage and determination of Pakistan’s armed forces, saying they “crushed the enemy’s arrogance” in a way that made the entire nation proud.
He extended gratitude on behalf of the people of Balochistan to the Pakistan Army, particularly Field Marshal & Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, for demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and unity during this crucial period.
Victory as a Symbol of National Unity
Mir Sarfraz Bugti emphasized that the recent military success represents the unity of the entire Pakistani nation. “History bears witness that whenever the country faced difficult times, the people of Balochistan stood firm without stepping back an inch—and will continue to stand with the beloved homeland in the future,” he said.
He added that from Gwadar to Zhob, the people of Balochistan celebrated Independence Day with immense passion, reflecting the spirit of a living nation that cherishes and celebrates its national occasions.
Condemnation of Terrorist Attacks on Civilians
Highlighting the unity of the province’s diverse ethnic communities—Baloch, Pashtun, Hazara, and others—CM Bugti strongly condemned the actions of “a handful of terrorist groups” attempting to harm the country and tarnish Baloch traditions.
He expressed outrage over the targeting of innocent women, children, and passengers, calling such acts a violation of social and tribal values. “Killing a woman’s husband and young son before her eyes and then claiming women and children were spared—what kind of sparing is this? What kind of respect for women is this?” he questioned.
Call for National Resolve Against Terrorism
The Chief Minister urged the nation to confront terrorists head-on, stressing the need for Parliament, religious scholars, and all schools of thought to take a leading role in the fight against terrorism.
“The people of Balochistan have rejected these elements before and will remain united against them in the future,” he declared.
This year’s Independence Day, according to CM Bugti, stands as both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to protect its sovereignty and values against all odds.
