Independence Day is of great significance in a nation’s history. It brings with it memories of those glorious days when the people of that nation achieved sovereignty and freedom from external powers.

Many countries celebrate and commemorate the great deeds of their forefathers. Americans celebrate the Fourth of July, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

People of South Africa celebrate Ninth July as their Independence Day. The Chinese celebrate October 1st and we celebrate 14th of August to revive the memories of the day when Pakistan got independence from the British.

Muslims, under the leadership of the Quaid fought hard and faced all odds to achieve this marvellous goal. It is a day to be celebrated with patriotic zeal and zest. This year we will be celebrating it in the holy month of Ramazan, which has made our Independence Day even more special!

But despite all the bright aspects of this day, I want to highlight some bitter facts. I have observed that our youth does not celebrate this day the way it’s meant to be! Last year, I observed hoards of young boys doing dangerous stunts on their bikes.

Worse, they had deliberately taken out the silencer and were speeding away regardless of any pedestrians walking on the road.

Sheesha cafes are loaded with people, mostly our youngsters, who we believe will run this country in the future!

Once I asked a classmate, who is involved in all such activities, if he ever felt embarrassed while doing all this and he replied quite carelessly, “What’s there to feel ashamed of, we enjoy the day just like any other holiday!”

I was really shocked at this answer. This behaviour sometimes makes me feel that the Quaid handed over this country to the wrong people. This is not what our forefathers expected from us!

This behaviour has damaged our repute in the international community as well. We present ourselves not as wise, hardworking and honest group of people but as crude hooligans who neither care for themselves nor for the country.

I just want to advise our youth not to waste their energy on such useless activities.

Dear youngsters, you are the hope of the nation — channel your energy towards useful activities that may help our country grow and prosper.