70 years of independence and division

70 years on and we are at the brink of losing the partition generation. Their grand inspiring stories of sacrifices, struggles, hardships and courage instill belief and wonder on the true essence of independence and freedom. They stood united and determined setting aside any differences in colour, cast or creed to realise their dream. The struggle for Pakistan is a centerpiece of our history, and its stories will always define our identity.

Unfortunately, the succeeding generations carried forwarded their communal and religious identities from the colonial era. Under the current social disorder and unrest, individuals and communities insist on justifying one religious community and individual triumphant or humane over the other. These divisions have been finely ingrained into our system and are deeply rooted within the fabric of our present day society.

The country was founded as to become one and sovereign nation. However, it has been divided and subdivided into many religious, communal, regional and political factions and subsequent identities. Each aspect of the community has held dearly to the Partition mantra but only to ensure it befits their individual and egoistic gains. As such it presents a startling and difficult question to the current generation: Whether the independence struggles were really worth it?

Outside entities have made good of the situation and installed their covert and malicious plans to further instigate division, disorient and distort the nation. Amidst all the celebrations and festivities the need of the hour is for us to understand the narrative that lead to partition and the link between our independence and our colonial past.

- Bilal Farooq, by email