LAHORE - Among the province-wide celebrations marking Youm-e-Tashakur and Marka-e-Haq, two major events took place on Friday at the Chief Minister’s Office and the Punjab Assembly, serving as focal points of gratitude, national pride, and unity across Punjab.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif officially launched the celebrations by hoisting the national flag at the CM Office, flanked by provincial ministers, advisors, special assistants, and senior officials. A contingent of Punjab Police presented a formal salute, and the national anthem was played. Special prayers were offered for the martyrs and for the peace, security, and prosperity of Pakistan.
Addressing the gathering at the CM Office, Maryam Nawaz said the day symbolizes Pakistan’s unity, courage, and unwavering commitment to defending the homeland. “We pay tribute to the Pakistan Air Force, which crushed the arrogance of the enemy, and to our armed forces whose unmatched bravery earned us this historic victory,” she said. She emphasized that Operation Bunyan-e-Marsus was a testament to strong civil-military unity and strategic leadership. “While we are proponents of peace, any aggression will be met with a resolute and fitting response,” she stated, adding that prayers for the injured soldiers and citizens affected by Indian hostility were held across Punjab during Fajr prayers.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif concluded, “Today, we salute the bravery of our forces and the unbreakable spirit of our people. Pakistan has shown the world the strength of its resolve, and we will continue to protect every inch of our beloved homeland.” At the Punjab Assembly, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan praised the strategic vision of Pakistan’s military, political, and diplomatic leadership. “We are celebrating a day of gratitude.
The enemy’s adventurism has been answered with clarity and strength,” he said. The speaker reiterated the demand for a Composite Dialogue with India, highlighting unresolved issues like Article 370-A and the Indus Waters Treaty. He warned that any attempt to disrupt Pakistan’s water rights could be construed as an act of war.
He lauded Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war against terrorism, noting the loss of nearly 90,000 lives. “Pakistan’s resilience is unmatched. False flag operations like Pulwama and Pahalgam will no longer go unanswered,” he added.
Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan also took aim at the Indian government’s “war hysteria,” stating, “After losing six aircraft, they have embarrassed themselves before the world. Even their citizens are questioning their leadership.”
Comparing the addresses of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Speaker said the contrast was clear: “One is the triumphant commander of a united nation; the other stands exposed in defeat.”
Also, throughout the day, Youm-e-Tashakur & Marka-e-Haq was observed across Punjab with Quran recitations, special prayers, and public rallies. Citizens participated in ceremonies at schools, colleges, mosques, and government offices. Green crescent flags were hoisted on buildings, and floral wreaths were laid at the shrines of martyrs. Tributes were paid to the armed forces, and ceremonies echoed with national unity and pride.
Special appreciation was extended to the media for responsible coverage during challenging times.