KARACHI: Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Wednesday invited all political parties to participate in the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, beginning August 1, and said that this year’s events would commemorate not only Pakistan’s independence but also the “triumph of truth over India.”

Speaking at a press conference, he announced that official invitations would soon be sent to political parties. The celebrations will carry the theme “Marka-i-Haq (Battle of Truth),” symbolising national pride and the victory of justice over oppression, the CM said.

Flanked by cabinet members Sharjeel Inam Memon, Nasir Shah, Saeed Ghani, Mohammad Bux Khan Mahar and Zulfiqar Shah, the chief minister said schools would remain open during the festivities, with the education department organising related programmes.

He added that this year’s commemorations would go beyond ceremonial observances and would aim to inspire renewed patriotism, showcase Sindh’s cultural richness and honour the resilience of its people, especially those who are rebuilding their lives after the recent floods.

Mr Shah also highlighted the province’s economic progress over the past year and said initiatives such as the flagship programme Udaan Pakistan would feature prominently in the celebrations. A grand concert and fireworks display are scheduled at the National Stadium on Aug 13 and 14.

He outlined a wide range of events taking place across the province. A celebration is planned in Hyderabad on August 8, followed by a marathon and traditional donkey cart race from Clifton to Frere Hall in Karachi on August 10. A cultural boat float will take place from Sea View to Boat Basin on Aug 13 while a women’s cycling rally will run from Karachi to Chaukundi.

Over 114 programmes will be organised by the sports department, including cricket matches between Mayor Eleven and Ministers Eleven and Qalandars Eleven versus Bhittai Eleven at the Moin Khan Academy on Aug 9 in which the chief minister himself will also participate. A wrestling (Malakhra) competition is scheduled for the same day, followed by a concert at Jehangir Kothari Parade on Aug 11.

Additional events will be organised by the minority affairs department, including programmes for persons with disabilities and a gathering opposing the change in the special status of Kashmir. Other events include vintage car and heavy bike rallies, women’s fairs, painting competitions, singing contests, poetry sessions, a rickshaw rally and the formation of a human chain, with all citizens encouraged to participate.

The CM said security and traffic plans were being prepared by the provincial police chief and DIG Traffic, and he called for public cooperation to ensure smooth proceedings. He added that special arrangements had been made for those planning to visit Gorakh Hill and Thar during the holidays.

He also announced that the Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, scheduled from Aug 9 to 11, would be celebrated with a spirit of national pride and independence. Mr Shah concluded by saying that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) would not be deterred by threats of terrorism and that the celebrations in Sindh would go ahead.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2025