PAKISTANIS are always willing to pay homage to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan on important days in our nation’s history — March 23, Aug 14, Sept 11 and Dec 25.

On all such occasions the people enthusiastically visit the Quaid’s mausoleum in Karachi. However, they are only allowed to pray before the marble grave placed on the elevated platform in the main mausoleum building. It should be borne in mind that this grave is a symbolic representation of the Quaid’s grave. His actual resting place is below the grave the public visits.

There are 15 stairs that lead down to the Quaid’s actual resting place and this area is only opened for visiting top dignitaries who wish to pay homage to Pakistan’s founder. It is humbly suggested that the people be allowed visit the Quaid-i-Azam’s actual grave.

Prime Minister Imran Khan is a great believer in the Quaid’s vision and leadership qualities. He is also deeply committed to the promotion of tourism in Pakistan.

One feels this small gesture of allowing people to pay homage at the Quaid’s actual grave on four days in a year will make a difference and help boost the nation’s morale.

Syed Jawaid Iqbal

Karachi

Published in Dawn, August 14th, 2019