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FAISALABAD, Dec 16 (APP):Leaders of the traders’ community in Faisalabad paid glowing tribute to martyrs of the Army Public School (APS) tragedy, saluting 130 innocent students and 20 teachers who laid down their lives, and reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to stand united against terrorism and extremism.
Speaking on behalf of the Central Organization of Traders Pakistan, Patron-in-Chief and President Anjuman-e-Tajran Faisalabad Khawaja Shahid Razaq Sikka, along with General Secretary Sheikh Saeed Ahmed, Deputy Secretary Mian Riaz Shahid, President Ring Traders Malik Sohail Niaz Toor, Chairman Mirza Ashraf Mughal and other senior leaders, said that martyred students had left their homes to light the lamp of knowledge, and today the entire nation lights candles of remembrance in honor of their sacred blood.
They said that Islam accords a lofty status to martyrs, quoting the Holy Quran that martyrs are alive in the sight of Allah, adding that every drop of their blood is fragrant and eternal.
The traders’ leaders also paid homage to the martyrs of Pakistan Armed Forces and praised the valor of Ghazis who continue to safeguard the country’s borders and strive tirelessly to eradicate the menace of terrorism from the homeland.
Recalling December 16 as a day of profound national grief, the speakers said that the same date in 1971 marked the fall of Dhaka, a black chapter in Pakistan’s history when East Pakistan was separated, an outcome they said was influenced by India’s condemnable role, dealing a deep blow to the concept of Pakistani nationhood, the wounds of which are still felt today.
They said that the foremost lesson of 1971 tragedy is that Pakistan can only be strengthened internally by realizing the true spirit of provincial autonomy and national cohesion.
The traders’ leaders urged unity, resilience and collective responsibility to honor the sacrifices of martyrs and build a peaceful, strong and prosperous Pakistan.