Zawiya, Allama Iqbal Council launch three books by Zulfiqar Ahmad Cheema

ISLAMABAD, Jul 22 (APP): Literary and cultural organisation Zawiya and the Allama Iqbal Council jointly organised the launch ceremony of three books authored by renowned former Inspector General of Police (IGP), civil servant, scholar and columnist Zulfiqar Ahmad Cheema at the Islamabad Club on Wednesday.

The books launched included Cheema’s autobiography, Jehad-e-Musalsal, along with Afkar-e-Taza and Aur Samajhta Hoon Jise Haq.

The ceremony was presided over by eminent poet and literary figure Iftikhar Arif, while Chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL), Dr Najeeba Arif, attended as the chief guest.The event was moderated by Mehboob Zafar and attended by writers, intellectuals, civil servants, literary enthusiasts and members of civil society.

Speaking on the occasion, prominent novelist and scholar Hameed Shahid described Jehad-e-Musalsal as much more than a personal memoir, saying it presents a broader reflection on society alongside the author’s life journey.

He noted that Cheema had candidly narrated both his successes and failures, reflecting his honesty, moral character and unwavering principles.

He said the book’s uniqueness lies in its emphasis on life’s trials rather than achievements alone, adding that it conveys an important message: the true strength of the police does not lie in weapons but in the trust and confidence of the public.

Addressing the ceremony, Dr Najeeba Arif congratulated Zulfiqar Ahmad Cheema on the publication of his books and praised his lifelong commitment to integrity and public service.

She said Afkar-e-Taza, a collection of columns, provides thoughtful insights into Pakistan’s social and political history, while Jehad-e-Musalsal offers an engaging account of the author’s distinguished career and his unwavering honesty, fairness and professionalism as a police officer.

She expressed the hope that the country would produce more officers of such integrity and character. In his remarks, Zulfiqar Ahmad Cheema thanked the distinguished guests and participants for attending the ceremony and for their generous appreciation of his work.

He said he had always strived to write with honesty and sincerity, adding that his objective was to promote positive values, an organised society and a truly democratic and prosperous Pakistan. Presiding over the event, Iftikhar Arif described Jehad-e-Musalsal as an authentic, engaging and inspiring autobiography. Recalling his long association with the author, he said he had never heard anything negative about Cheema.

He praised Cheema’s honesty, patriotism and dedication to duty, saying he remained deeply committed to the ideals of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Pakistan.

Referring to Afkar-e-Taza, he noted that the collection reflects the author’s intellectual depth and profound admiration for the philosophy and poetry of Allama Iqbal. Civil servant and columnist Qurat-ul-Ain Haider, Admiral Zakaullah and other speakers also paid tribute to Zulfiqar Ahmad Cheema’s distinguished contributions to public service, literature and intellectual discourse.

They highlighted the significance of his newly launched books and appreciated his commitment to promoting ethical values, patriotism and good governance through his writings.