Daily Times

Sir: According to a report in a section of the press, the Pakistan army after the funeral prayer of one of the martyrs of the Gayari tragedy, Major Zaka-ul-Haq on June 5, had declared all the victims of Gayari as shuhada (martyrs). This was done 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 that made the army take such a step. This step taken by the Pakistan army is highly appreciated.

I suggest that a Minar-e-Shuhada be constructed in Islamabad. The names of all those who sacrificed their lives in defence of Pakistan after August 14, 1947 in any military operation — the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the ongoing war on terror in Pakistan — be inscribed around the base of the Minar-e-Shuhada. Flags of all the three services to be hoisted and smartly turned out guards from the 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 give the nation opportunity to commemorate their shuhada and will also be a symbol of pride for the Pakistani nation.

SQN LDR (RETD) S AUSAF HUSSAIN

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