KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Friday joined over 100 differently abled children at Flagstaff House and the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah as part of festivities to celebrate the country’s upcoming Independence Day.

Both events, marked under ‘Ma’arka-i-Haq’ theme, highlighted inclusivity, unity and national pride, said a statement issued by the CM House.

The day began at the Quaid-i-Azam House Museum, also known as Flagstaff House where the Department of Culture hosted a vibrant programme.

Children from institutions such as Scanosa, C-Arts, Dar Al-Sukoon and Umeed-e-Nau participated in the celebrations, which featured a flag-hoisting ceremony, national songs and cultural performances in Sindhi, Punjabi, Balochi and Pashto.

Over 100 differently abled students take part in events at Flagstaff House and Mazar-i-Quaid

The CM was accompanied by Culture Minister Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, prominent artists Javed Sheikh and Ayub Khoso and others.

He engaged warmly with the children, sang national songs, joined children on stage and cut a cake to mark the occasion.

He praised the courage and talent of the children, saying, “These special children are the heart of this celebration. They bring joy, energy and hope.”

CM Shah emphasised his government’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, equality and support for the differently-abled. “Every citizen deserves respect, dignity and opportunity regardless of physical or mental ability,” he said.

He announced plans to expand special education and rehabilitation centres in every district and strengthen vocational and artistic training programmes for special children.

Later in the day, the CM, along with differently abled children, visited Mazar-i-Quaid.

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) organised a special programme at the mausoleum, which began with a soulful rendition of the national anthem by the children.

Mr Shah laid a floral wreath, offered prayers for peace and prosperity and paid rich tribute to the Father of the Nation.

“Today, we celebrate our freedom with gratitude and renew our commitment to serve our people with sincerity,” he said.

Referring to the recent war, he added, “In May, India launched an attack, and our armed forces gave a strong and befitting response. Pakistan achieved a great victory.”

He called upon the nation to remain united in times of difficulty and lauded the bravery of the armed forces.

“Unity, strength, and justice come from our collective will,” he remarked, pledging continued support for the rehabilitation and development of people with disabilities.

The CM also announced a grand Independence Day celebration on the night of August 13 at the National Stadium Karachi, with special arrangements for differently abled children to participate comfortably and joyfully.

The events concluded with cheers, applause and national songs echoing through the air.

Culture Minister Shah lauded the spirit and performances of the special children, calling them “a true reflection of love for the country”.

Through these meaningful celebrations, Sindh reaffirmed its vision of a more inclusive, compassionate and united Pakistan, he added.

Published in Dawn, August 9th, 2025