ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s civil and military leadership gathered at the Pakistan Monument today to commemorate “Marka-i-Haq” (Battle of Truth) in a formal ceremony.
The state has officially designated the recent conflict with India—which began with the April 22 Pahalgam attack and concluded today, May 10, with a ceasefire following Operation Bunyanum Marsoos—as “Marka-i-Haq.”
The event is being attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir. Also in attendance are Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Baber Sidhu.
It is pertinent to mention that on the completion of one year of the struggle for truth, Pakistanis living abroad, including across the country, held solemn ceremonies and reiterated their resolve that no sacrifice would be spared for the integrity of the beloved homeland.
While addressing the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced May 10 (Marka-i-Haq) to be celebrated every year to honour the day and remember martyrs.
PM Shehbaz appreciated Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his excellence in the war against India in the defence of the homeland.
Shehbaz Sharif said he was grateful to the Almighty for Marka-i-Haq, which has made Pakistan proud, adding that history will write the wise and courageous leadership of Field Marshal General Asim Munir in golden letters.
Recalling the conflict, PM Shehbaz stated that India, “using Pahalgam as an excuse, made baseless accusations against us.” He noted that despite Pakistan’s offer of a transparent investigation, the “enemy, under the cover of darkness, attacked our mosques and children, imposing an unprovoked war.”
“Our brave armed forces delivered a historic response to the nighttime attack,” he said, adding that “our Shaheens dominated the conflict.” Consequently, he continued, India was compelled to request a ceasefire within four hours.
He also pointed out that even a year after the Pahalgam incident, India has failed to present any evidence of Pakistan’s alleged involvement.
The ceremony commenced with a recitation of the Holy Quran and a march past. While a flypast was originally planned, it was aborted due to inclement weather. The event also featured performances of various patriotic songs.
President Asif Ali Zardari, on the occasion, said that Pakistani armed forces responded with a very befitting and well manner to enemy aggression.
He said India attacked civilians and mosques in Pakistan and martyred innocent civilians; however, the Pakistan Army destroyed their jets and army quarters.
