Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Monday described ‘Marka-e-Haq’ as a “golden chapter” in the country’s history, saying the nation had demonstrated unity, determination and resolve during the conflict.
He was speaking at a commemorative ceremony held in Karachi to mark one year of the event, organised by the Sindh government. The ceremony was attended by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, members of the assembly, and senior civil and military officials.
The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem, while a documentary highlighting the success of ‘Marka-e-Haq’ was also screened.
Addressing the gathering, Bilawal Bhutto said every Pakistani had played an effective role during the conflict, adding that the nation had emerged successful on both the battlefield and the diplomatic front.
He said Pakistani diplomats conveyed a clear message to the world that the country would not bow to pressure, adding that the success was the result of national unity, sacrifices and collective effort.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said that a year ago India had cast “an evil eye” on Pakistan, to which the nation and armed forces responded with unity and resolve.
He claimed that within hours India received a response that underscored Pakistan’s preparedness, adding that despite initiating military action and attempting to shift blame, India was effectively countered.
The chief minister said Pakistani forces shot down several enemy aircraft, including Rafale jets, during the conflict, while citizens in rural areas also resisted enemy drone activity.
He criticised sections of the Indian media for spreading what he described as propaganda, including claims that Karachi Port had been targeted, and contrasted this with what he termed responsible reporting by Pakistani media.
Shah said the conflict between Pakistan and India dated back to 1947, adding that Pakistan had consistently followed a defensive strategy. He credited Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for initiating the country’s nuclear programme and Benazir Bhutto for advancing missile development.
He added that after ‘Marka-e-Haq’, Pakistan strengthened its global standing and contributed to international diplomacy, including facilitating dialogue between countries such as the United States and Iran.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said the Pakistan Army had delivered a strong response during the conflict, calling the day a moment of pride for the nation.
He said Pakistan was a strong country capable of defending itself, adding that the armed forces had sent a clear message regarding the country’s defence capability.
Memon also credited Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto for strengthening Pakistan’s defence foundations, and said Bhutto had effectively presented Pakistan’s stance at the international level.
He alleged that Indian media outlets had spread misleading reports during the conflict, including claims of damage in Lahore and Karachi, which he described as baseless, while praising the role of Pakistani media.
He added that the Pakistan Air Force had played a key role during ‘Marka-e-Haq’, demonstrating the country’s defence preparedness.
