FAREWELL TARI4DEMOCRACY@GMAIL.COM

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad
0333 53 63 248

    Each loss casts a shadow over my heart, but when it’s someone I hold dear, it feels as though the very air is stolen from my lungs. Tari's untimely departure is a profound loss, resonating deeply not just with his family but also with the countless friends who each considered him their closest companion. His life's legacy can be encapsulated in a brief verse by Baba-e-Punjabi Dr. Faqir Muhammad Faqir, which states,

رکھیں لوکاں نال فقیرا ایسا بہن کھلون

کول ہوویں تے ہسن سارے نہ ہوویں تے رون

    Tari was a true advocate for humanity. With a strong conviction in the principles of democracy, I first connected with him in 2012 when he shared his email address, tari4democracy@gmail.com. Since then, every time I reached out to him, I would greet him by asking, "How are you, Mr. tari4democracy? I heard the Almighty has blessed you with a baby? and there he was again using his right of freedom of expression by saying ........ and ........ and ................!

His signature feature was his infectious smile

   Tariq Hassan (1969-2024), lovingly known as "Tari," passed away at Shaukat Khanum Hospital in Lahore after a brave battle against lung cancer. Despite being diagnosed with stage-four cancer last August, Tariq initially showed signs of recovery, defying the odds. However, his health deteriorated few months ago, ultimately leading to his demise while on life support.

    Sharing fond memories of Tari, Aslam Lurka, a senior journalist and a close friend of Tari, reminisced about their time together at NNI- News Agency in 1998-99. “From the very first day, we met until our final meeting; the moments spent with Tari were truly delightful. Lurka remembered Tari as someone who had a refined sense of style. He exuded a magnetic charm that drew people in. Notably, he never displayed any signs of anger, jealousy, or envy towards others. Tari had a particular fondness for black tea and enjoyed smoking cigarettes. As the conversation shifted to a more somber note, Lurka recounted the time when Tari was diagnosed with Cancer. He vividly remembered inquiring of Tari during a lengthy silence in meetings, asking him jokingly, "Where have you gone to die?" Tari replied lightheartedly, "I am almost there." The news of Tari's illness came as a shock, but when I visited him in the Shifa hospital, Tari was still smiling and laughing.

    As Tari's condition worsened and he was shifted to SK Hospital, I stayed in touch with him over the phone, Lurka continued. A few days before Tari's passing, Safdar Klasra contacted me and informed about Tari's critical condition. Due to some technical issues with Tari's phone, I reached out to Tari's nephew for updates. Our plans to meet in Islamabad and have dinner never materialized, Lukra said. Days later, a text from Azam Khan arrived, announcing Tari's departure at 7:30pm on Thursday, August 15th. With tears in his eyes, Lurka reflected on how he would have never believed that Tari was truly gone if he had not been part of the burial process himself.

    Sajjad Azhar, a fellow journalist, fondly recalls his experiences with Tari, mentioning that their meetings took place in the New and Old Plazas of the Commercial Market in Rawalpindi during 1994 and 1995. These venues were affectionately referred to as “the media hostels” of that era. Tari's older brother, Jedi, also a journalist, when appointed Chief Reporter of ‘The News” brought along a van full of unemployed youth from Shorkot, many of whom would go on to achieve prominence in journalism. Tari made his way to Islamabad during this same time-frame. Azhar describes Tari as a joyful and cheerful presence. A few years back, when Jedi suffered a stroke, it was Tari who provided updates on his brother's condition. “Our last encounter took place about a year ago at the National Press Club. Indeed, everyone must eventually part ways. May Allah elevate your status in Paradise, Mr. Tari,” he prayed.

    Usman Manzoor, another media colleague, reflected on Tari's passing with a heartfelt tribute, sharing that Tari departed from us, leaving a trail of tears behind as he journeyed toward his next destination. Bidding farewell to friends in such a manner is never easy, yet Tari's warmth made it all the more poignant. He radiated happiness, greeted everyone with genuine kindness and respect, and truly found a place within the hearts of all who knew him.

    We often find ourselves pondering what one truly gains by pursuing a career in journalism. Beneath this inquiry lies a harsh reality: approximately 90% of journalists struggle to make ends meet. For those who shine on the illuminated screens of television, it is nearly impossible to survive solely on their income while fulfilling their responsibilities. However, I believe there is a singular and valuable insight to be drawn from this challenging profession. While Tari may or may not have gained material wealth through his journey in journalism, he has undeniably forged deeper and more genuine friendships than many might expect. This sentiment resonates not just with me, but with nearly every journalist, who is enriched by the presence of sincere, selfless, and loving companions in this field.

    When I started my journey as a junior reporter at The News, the name Javed Jedi came up in conversations every day. At that point, Jedi was residing in U.S, yet his friendship was frequently a topic of discussion in Islamabad. Eventually, I had the chance to meet Tari, who turned out to be Jedi's brother. Since that moment, Tari has cultivated a unique place in my heart that is truly one of a kind.

    Manzoor remarked that Jedi and Tari traveled to Islamabad from Shorkot. While they may not have made any financial gains, they certainly gained a wealth of affectionate friendships. The true treasures of both brothers lie in their friendships, as they themselves are incredibly sincere and loving individuals.

    Today, Tari succumbed to his struggle with cancer. His friends are bewildered, grappling with the reality that such a genuine soul has departed far too soon. It’s profoundly challenging to bid farewell to someone who dedicated his life to nurturing friendships. Farewell, Tari! No one can ever take your place. Your spirit will forever linger in our hearts. May the Almighty Allah grant you a place of honor in Paradise.

Tari alongside his media colleagues on the day of NPC polls

    Imran Naeem, a media specialist and a close friend of Tari, remarked that Tari's captivating smile had the power to light up any space he entered. He effortlessly built friendships wherever he traveled. A genuine companion, he was always present whenever you needed him. "Your words, your voice, and your fervor will resonate in our hearts for eternity. You will be profoundly missed and will remain forever in our memories, Tari," he said.

    Tariq's illustrious journey in journalism commenced at The Pakistan Times, where his keen insights and steadfast commitment quickly garnered him respect within the field. He then advanced to The News as a sub-editor, where he continued to make a noteworthy impact. After his time in journalism, Tariq shifted gears into the development sector, taking on the role of Senior Media Officer for both the Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability (TDEA) and the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN). In these capacities, he concentrated on fostering media relations and spearheading initiatives that aimed to enhance democratic accountability in Pakistan. Tariq was well-known for his cheerful demeanor and optimistic perspective on life, traits that endeared him to his colleagues and friends alike. 

    Revered and cherished by anyone fortunate enough to know him, Tari was buried in his hometown Shorkot, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of kindness and love.

Writer is a journalist and a student of M.Phil at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.

BEYOND 242 MILLION: PAKISTAN'S PATH TO DEMOGRAPHIC STABILITY

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad

    After the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal (1593-1631) during childbirth, the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (1592-1666) decided to build the magnificent Taj Mahal as a timeless tribute to their enduring love. This iconic mausoleum is now recognized worldwide as a symbol of devotion and affection between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

    On the other hand, Dashrath Manjhi, known as the "Mountain Man," demonstrated unparalleled loyalty and dedication by tirelessly carving a path through a mountain to improve access to healthcare for his village. His unwavering commitment to the well-being of his community showcases a different yet equally profound form of devotion.

    These two individuals embody different manifestations of loyalty and dedication, with Shah Jahan paying homage to love and Manjhi dedicating himself to the welfare of his village. Despite their differing paths, both Shah Jahan and Manjhi have left lasting legacies that continue to inspire people around the world.

    However, the debate over who was the true lover between Shah Jahan and Manjhi still continues in the sub-continent, even though both men displayed incredible devotion to their wives after their deaths during pregnancy but in different ways.

    Amidst the storm of political unrest, economic downturn, and widening class difference in Pakistan, the proletariat's battle to cover their electricity bills paints a vivid picture of a nation with over 242 million souls in just a whisper - plus ça change

    Pakistan, while addressing major challenges, often becomes preoccupied with internal trivial matters, which is why it receives minimal recognition on the global stage.

    Beside climate change, a significant challenge for Pakistan is its rapidly increasing population growth rate of 2.55 percent, the highest in the region and among the top 30 countries globally. As per a report released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) in July 2024, Pakistan is expected to see its population double by 2050, reaching around 500 million.

    The recently released annual report on the State of the World Population 2024 by UNFPA, focusing on the theme 'Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending inequalities in sexual and reproductive health and rights', reveals concerning findings about Pakistan. Only around one in three women had the autonomy to make decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health. Women with physical disabilities were found to be up to 10 times more susceptible to gender-based violence, and a woman died due to pregnancy complications every 50 minutes. The report predicts that it will take 93 years to meet family planning needs and achieving zero maternal deaths will remain unattainable for 122 years.

    In regards to the country's expanding population, opinions are divided. Some view it as a reflection of widespread poverty and a burden on the government's ability to deliver public services. Conversely, others see the increasing numbers as a positive sign, labeling it as a demographic dividend that could drive economic growth. This optimism is founded on the fact that a significant proportion of the population, 67%, is under the age of 30, with 80% under 40. Nevertheless, the reality remains that the rising population poses more challenges than benefits. It exerts significant strain on already scarce resources and complicates efforts to combat poverty, hunger, disease, and illiteracy. This is evident in Pakistan's unfavorable ranking on the UNDP's Human Development Index. Furthermore, the country is constantly impacted by severe weather occurrences such as floods and droughts, resulting in displacement and further pressure on resources. Neglecting the necessity for population control is no longer a sustainable option.

    Numerous factors contribute to Pakistan's rapid population growth, including entrenched religious and cultural beliefs, societal stigmas, poverty, inadequate education, and restricted access to contraceptives. Despite these obstacles, several countries have effectively managed their population growth. For example, Bangladesh has notably reduced its fertility rate to less than two births per woman and its growth rate to just above 1%. India's growth rate has also decreased significantly to 0.8%. Similarly, Turkey and Iran have successfully lowered their fertility rates to 2.1% and 2.3%, respectively, in stark contrast to Pakistan's rate of 3.2%.

    The accomplishments of these nations indicate that Pakistan has the potential to control its population growth through the implementation of efficient family planning programs and campaigns, following the successful models established by its counterparts.

The writer is a journalist associated with Dunya Media Group and a student of M.Phil, Area Study Centre (ASC) at Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), Islamabad. 

NAVTTC STRIVING TO FOSTER INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA COLLABORATION FOR SKILLED WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: GULMINA BILAL

NAVTTC to organise skill competitions in July, August, 2024 followed by a National Job Fair in October and November

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
0333 53 63 248

ISLAMABAD: Chairperson National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), Gulmina Bilal Ahmed, has emphasized that the development of a skilled workforce in Pakistan is a key vision of the Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif maintaining so far, 27 institutions, including universities, have been identified as illegitimate, with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) currently conducting investigations against three of them. NAVTTC assumes full accountability in the event that any organization is discovered to be fraudulent in today's circumstances, she said. 

During a press conference commemorating World Youth Skilled Day, Chairperson NAVTCC Gulmina Bilal highlighted the organization's establishment in 2011 as a regulatory authority. Emphasizing the importance of adapting curriculum post 18th Amendment, Bilal mentioned the establishment of Technical Upgradation and Training Authorities (TEVTA) in provinces. However, NAVTCC stands out for its nationwide provision of training courses encompassing traditional, industrial, and modern IT programs. Maintaining a high standard in educational environments, NAVTCC ensures integrity and quality in teaching faculty across affiliated institutions, she added.

Chairperson NAVTTC Presser: Photo Courtesy: Zaigham Naqvi  

The Chairperson said, anyone who is 18 and above are eligible to enroll in our courses. “Stakeholders play a crucial role in our organisation, as we strive to introduce courses that will benefit the younger generation in the long run. We have implemented a more robust system with real-time monitoring in all affiliated institutions. Attendance in classrooms is being actively monitored through CCTV cameras to ensure compliance. Also, third-party assessments are conducted by reputable international quality companies to maintain high standards, she claimed.

The first female head of NAVTTC, Gulmina Bilal, went on to mention that the courses are tailored to meet the current demands of the industry. With job opportunities becoming scarce in the country, NAVTCC has taken the initiative to offer training courses in consultation with industry partners. The upcoming batch will comprise 36 candidates who will receive tailored training to meet industry needs. In the months of July and August, skill competitions will be organised for ten selected trades. Following this, a National Job Fair is scheduled to take place in October and November this year, Chairperson informed.

Chairperson responded to a query by revealing that in the past, there had been complaints and instances of certain universities offering fake courses. NAVTCC identified 27 institutions as fraudulent, and the FIA is currently investigating three institutions. However, as of today, out of the 937 institutions under scrutiny, there are no fake organisations uncovered. The Chairperson mentioned that any instances of fraud discovered in the current situation will result in severe consequences for the Chairperson (myself), Executive Director, and NAVTTC.

HAFIZ HASSAN IQBAL CHISHTI: A MISOGYNIST, NAY, A MISANDRIST?

Muhammad Mahtab Bashir 

Islamabad

mahtabbashir@gmail.com

    

    In a period marked by economic and political turmoil, Pakistan faces the difficult challenge of rising radicalization amidst the start of ongoing Azm-e-Pakistan operation in the KP province. Despite the presence of numerous state-run institutions, many remain inactive and unresponsive to the growing threat. 

It is crucial to awaken those dormant institutions and empower them with the awareness needed to combat radicalization effectively, before they shirk their responsibilities. Mending a tear in fabric before it becomes a larger problem (a stitch in time, in simple words), however, is never been a popular practice in this part of the world.

    In the backdrop of a young cleric singer named Hafiz Hassan Iqbal Chishti, there has been a surge in the popularity of his videos on YouTube- both the full versions and shortened clips. In these videos, he delivers a concerning message urging men, particularly parents, to refrain from sending their daughters to school. He labels this act as something only equivalent to prostitution and claims that the girls are engaging in inappropriate behaviors like dancing, while their fathers or guardians are committing an act of pimps while sending them to schools. Chishti's latest video, the 36th in the series, was uploaded just ten days ago under the title "Apni dhi schoolon hata le, othe dance kardi pai ay" and has already received over 64,000 views.

    Wearing a white turban, Hafiz Hassan Iqbal Chishti created his YouTube channel on March 2, 2023. As of the writing of this piece, the channel has got 4.5K subscribers and 426,664 views. Chishti has shared a total of 36 videos, where he can be seen passionately singing and discussing various social issues while using offensive language in what he believes is a service to his religion. Interestingly, despite the channel's creation over 16 months ago, neither military nor civilian state-run institutions have taken any action or engaged in any debate regarding Chishti's content.

    His latest video titled “School wich dhi ghalna- kam hunda ay dallian da”, has quickly gained popularity with 61,000 views. However, the message he is conveying is disturbing as he suggests that parents who send their daughters to school are essentially enabling prostitution. Another controversial video of his from ten months ago gained traction with 51,000 views. In this video, he shamefully sings about women who own touch-screen smartphones, insinuating that they are involved in prostitution. His choice of lyrics is offensive and disrespectful towards women.

    It is surprising to note that of the 36 videos produced by Chishti, his primary emphasis was on reciting Naat-e-Rasool (peace be upon him). However, it was observed that when he began singing other kalams containing provocative words like dalla, kanjari, beghairat, gandi ran, soor, lanati, etc, he acquired a significantly higher viewership- one of his preferred objectives he is settled with now?    

    Have a look of this video, uploaded on March 28, 2023, with 342 likes and 12,990 views. In the video, Hafiz Hassan Iqbal Chishti showcases his ‘vocal talent’ by singing, "Dhi di kamai khawan wala dalla ay, jo dallay nu dalla na samjhy o wi dalla ay/ Sharam karo koi haya karo, sharam karo koi haya karo”. (He who eats off a woman's earned money is a pimp. Someone who does not perceive a pimp as a pimp, himself is a pimp. Feel a sense of shame, show a sense of modesty.) It further goes … “Suraan nalo wadda soor o hunda/ jehra chaddan dhi nu daftar de wich challa ay/ jo dallay nu dalla na samjhy o wi dalla ay”. (He, who drops his daughter off to her office, is the biggest pig among others. Someone who does not perceive a pimp as a pimp, himself is a pimp.) Chishti, while swaying as he sings, not only displays his misogyny but also reveals his hatred for men, especially fathers- making him a genuine misandrist.

    On Saturday, July 29, 2024, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and National Commission on Status of Women (NCSW) take strong exception to a series of videos being circulated on social media platforms in which right-wing clerics have urged parents to pull their daughters out of school on the grounds that schooling is associated with ‘obscenity’. In another video, certain clerics have denounced women’s use of mobile phones on similar grounds. The language used in these videos is not only derogatory but also abusive and potentially an incitement to violence. HRCP says, such deep-seated misogyny must be curtailed at once. With an estimated 12 million girls out of school, widespread cultural restrictions on women’s mobility and an alarmingly high incidence of violence against women and girls, Pakistan cannot afford to give any space to derogatory and anti-women rhetoric. The state must urgently counter such narratives through strong and consistent public service messages that uphold girls’ right to education—as is their constitutionally protected right under Article 25A—as well as women’s digital rights more generally, a press release stated.

The writer is a journalist, who values ethics and morality for success in this life and hereafter. 

MR. KHAWAJA, WE COME HERE WITH THE PUBLIC VOTES, NOT (LIKE YOU) BY ELEVATING SCROTUM: SAYS MASTIKHEL IN A ‘REVERED HOUSE’

Mahtab Bashir
0333 53 63 248
mahtabbashir@gmail.com

From the Parliament House where immorality prevails?

ISLAMABAD: Time and again, we have been told by the parliamentarians about the sanctity and reverence of the lower and upper house of the parliament. During a post-budget session, it was further ‘reiterated’ on Saturday (June 22) when PTI turned SIC member of the house Muhammad Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel (NA-91, Bhakkar-1) pointing to Khawaja Asif of PMLN saying, “… Mr. Khawaja, we come (to parliament) with the public votes, we do not come (here) by lifting the testicles …”.

Deputy Speaker NA, Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, who was chairing the session, hurriedly interfering the proceeding saying, “We expunge these remarks. Mr. Mastikhel, you are a veteran parliamentarian”. Later the provocative statement led to an immediate commotion in the House, disrupting proceedings and forcing the Dy. Speaker to adjourn the session for 15 minutes.

Even more astounding was the fact that initially, every “distinguished member” of the house was seen giggling, laughing, and enthusiastically patting Mastikhel on the back with hearty chuckles. A member of the group even gave Mastikhel a round of applause, exclaiming, "You have managed to capture the essence of the river in a mere bowl", a compliment that Mastikhel took to heart with great pride.

Female members of parliament voiced their strong objection to the indecent language being used in the proceedings, citing that it goes against the dignity and respect expected in this legislative body.

Hours later, speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq suspended the membership of Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel for the current session. The Speaker mentioned that, he himself, despite being a longstanding member of the House since 2002, had never witnessed such inappropriate language being used on the microphone before. He expressed his deep concern and disapproval for the incident, stating that he was at a loss for words to adequately convey his disappointment.

Suspension for a current session  

Speaker Sadiq introduced a motion to suspend Mastikhel, which was unanimously approved by the House. The resolution cited that Mastikhel's comments were highly objectionable and disrespectful, breaching rule 30 of the National Assembly's Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in 2007. As per rule 21 of the same guidelines, Mastikhel was required to leave the Assembly immediately.

The common belief is that the elected officials in parliament, whom the public has entrusted and voted for, should be focused on addressing the issues facing their constituencies. However, their use of vulgar and disrespectful language calls into question their ability to effectively solve these problems. If they are willing to use such inappropriate language within the esteemed halls of parliament, one can only wonder what kind of language they would direct towards their own constituents.

The general public is urging all political parties to prioritize the correction of their members by emphasizing ethics and moral values. It is recommended that crash courses on ethical principles be promptly arranged before the Speaker of the National Assembly invites them to address the house using an open microphone.

Muhammad Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel, 52, is not only a seasoned politician but also an agriculturist. He earned his LLB degree from Punjab University Law College in 1996. As an Independent Candidate, Mastikhel secured a victory in the 2024 election for the NA-91 Bhakkar-I seat, securing a total of 106,003 votes. In a close second was Abdul Majeed Khan from the PMLN party, who received 85,429 votes.

BASHIR HUSSAIN NAZIM: A STAUNCH DEVOTEE OF HAZRAT DATA GANJ BAKSH (RAA)

"You may not be physically here, your love and wisdom still serve as my compass in life. Wishing you a Happy Father's Day up in heaven, Abba G."

Mahtab Bashir

mahtabbashir@gmail.com

0333 53 63 248

Urdu rendition by Bashir Hussain Nazim 

Islamabad

    Bashir Hussain Nazim (1937-2012) was a renowned literary, academic and religious figure known for his exceptional skills as a translator. One of his most notable work includes the translation of Hazrat Ali Bin Usman Hajveri Data Ganj Bakhsh (RAA's) renowned book Kashf-Ul-Mahjoob from Persian to Urdu, receiving high praise within religious and literary communities wherever Urdu is understood. Published by Karmanwala Book Shop Lahore, this translation has been widely acclaimed.

    Nazim was among the few individuals in the country who possessed a deep understanding of Persian language, enabling him to compose poetry in Persian with as much expertise that the Iranian Consulate staff never initiated any event without his presence.

    Another notable achievement was the inclusion of his Persian Ashaar engraved at the shrine of Hazrat Ali Bin Usman Hajveri Data Ganj Bakhsh (RAA) (1009-1072) in Lahore.

تاجدار ملک و معنی، پیر پیراں گنج بخش

کو کب رشد و ہدایت، نجم ایقاں گنج بخش

ماہ اقلیم سخا، خورشید گردون عطا

نیر برج طریقت، شمع عرفاں گنج بخش

ہستی او مزرع اسلام را ابر کرم

خطہ پنجاب را احسان یزداں گنج بخش

بشیر حسین ناظم

An evening at shrine of The Sufi Saint

    Dear Dad, as Father's Day (Sunday, June 16, 2024) is being celebrated worldwide today, and tomorrow (June 17, 2012) holds special significance marking your 12th death anniversary, I am bursting with thoughts and emotions, yet find limited by the constraints of brevity.
    

    As I continue to navigate life without you, encountering various influential figures along the way, the void left by your absence becomes more pronounced. The values, teachings, and kindness that you embodied are unmatched, and society truly lacks individuals like you. Your presence is dearly missed as I strive to uphold the legacy you left behind.

Happy Father’s Day Abbai💗

I know you are savouring the delights of heavenly existence! 

IMRAN ALI CHAUDHARY: A CHAMPION OF HUMANITY IN CIVIL SERVICES

A tribute to a living legend in bureaucracy

Mahtab Bashir
0333 53 63 248
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad

    From the colonial era to the present, the bureaucracy of Pakistan has been under constant scrutiny for a variety of reasons. Both the general public and politicians express widespread discontent with the operations of the bureaucracy, citing pervasive corruption, unethical practices and shenanigans.

    But today, I would like to recount a story of a seasoned bureaucrat who was instrumental in helping us overcome seemingly insurmountable challenge, earning him a reputation as a guardian angel within the bureaucracy of Pakistan.

"I am absolutely certain that my generations to come will forever be grateful to this individual who accomplished this remarkable task - a miracle, in my opinion"

    It was the month of April 2020 when I received a distressing call from my elder sister Samina from Lahore, urgently asking me to bring her husband (my brother-in-law) from Barcelona, (Spain) to Pakistan. As the grip of Covid-19 had tightened its deadly hold on Europe, including Spain, all air travel had come to a standstill. Sister called me again the next day, tears in her eyes, pleading to do something as her husband Shakil was unwell. She promised to make all necessary arrangements as per the doctors' advice to ensure his recovery once he arrived in Lahore or Islamabad. 

    I knew the gravity of the situation and began to seriously think about what I could do to help. I was out in the field reporting on Constitution Avenue when I received her call and quickly raced back to my office with possibilities. While riding my bike, I recalled an interview I had conducted with the Consulate General in Barcelona, Imran Ali Chaudhary and frantically searched for the old file and found the interview notes, where he had provided his contact information for emergencies. I immediately saved his contact number in my phone, hoping that he could assist me in this critical situation.

    At approximately 9 pm, I finished my work for the day and decided to send a quick message to Chaudhary on his WhatsApp, considering his position as a high-ranking bureaucrat, I was reluctant to get his response. As I hopped on my bike to head home, I found myself near HEC within 15 minutes, when suddenly I received a call from Chaudhary who first apologized for the delay in responding to my message and later expressed his well wishes for my brother-in-law's health. Chaudhary requested my brother-in-law's contact information so he could visit him and offer his support. I, immediately, shared the contact number with him and continued my journey home. Upon arriving home, I received another call from Chaudhary, who was at Shakil's residence, reassuring me that he had already spoken with my brother and everything was under control. It was not only a big relief to me but biggest surprise as well. 

    Since then, the officer continued to provide me with assistance and spared no effort to ensure Shakil's return to Pakistan. Chaudhary provided me with the necessary documents and maintained regular communication with me. Eventually, he contacted me to inform that he was monitoring a special PIA flight from Islamabad to Barcelona to Lahore. "Please keep me informed from your end regarding the scheduling of this flight, and I will handle all necessary arrangements," he reassured me.

Muhammad Imran Ali Chaudhary, Ambassador of Pakistan to Oman

    A few days later, Chaudhary informed me about the special PIA flight and provided me with a detailed flight schedule which included the names of all passengers, with Shakil Akhter's name at the top of the list. I immediately contacted my cousin, who was in Barcelona with Shakil, to arrange for travel permission. He said the flight was scheduled for May 12th, but the doctors would be visiting the hospital on May 16th. I quickly reached out to Chaudhary, expressing my concerns. He reassured me saying, "Do not worry. I will personally ensure that Shakil boards the flight, regardless of whether the travel NOC is available or not." True to his word, Chaudhary made sure that Shakil was able to board the flight successfully.

    The most significant day for all of us was on 12th May 2020 when the PIA special flight departed from Barcelona to Lahore. I received the video clip of my cousins and Consulate General, confirming that Shakil had safely arrived in Lahore and was later placed in quarantine. He spent 21 days with his family before tragically passing away on June 6, 2020.

    Now, whenever we visit the resting place of Shakil, nestled between his parents' graves, we find solace. Our prayers are first for the remarkable living legend, Imran Ali Chaudhary, and then for Shakil's eternal peace. May Allah grant Shakil a place of honour in Heaven, give his wife and children strength, and bestow abundant blessings upon Chaudhary in this life and hereafter.

Also read: SHAKIL AKHTER: AN ANGEL IN DISGUISE FLIES BACK TO HEAVEN
https://mahtabbashir.blogspot.com/2020/08/shakil-akhter-angel-in-disguise-flies.html

    Imran Ali Chaudhary is no ordinary individual, with a remarkable profile that speaks volumes. A distinguished member of the Foreign Service of Pakistan, Imran Ali has been fulfilling his duties as Pakistan's Ambassador to Oman since the beginning of 2022. Prior to this role, he held the position of Consul General in Barcelona from 2018 to 2022, showcasing his diplomatic skills and expertise. Chaudhary has also served in prestigious locations such as Washington DC from 2000 to 2004 and Toronto from 2009 to 2014, solidifying his reputation as a seasoned diplomat.

    Being a strong advocate for drastic changes in the Civil Services of Pakistan, he held the position of director for the Civil Services Common Training Program from 2016 to 2018. He is proud of revolutionizing the curriculum by incorporating values like kindness, compassion, language proficiency, and promoting the Pakistan narrative during the training at the academy.

    From 2006 to 2009, he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study at Georgetown and George Washington Universities. During this time, he pursued his Master's degree and completed pre-PhD coursework in International Politics, with a specific focus on US relations with Pakistan and India. In addition to his academic achievements, he also earned an MBBS degree from King Edward Medical College and MA degrees in History and Political Science from Punjab University.

    Chaudhary holds the belief that the Civil Services serve as the primary connection between the government of Pakistan and its citizens, being the first line of defense and problem solvers. He emphasizes the importance of kindness and understanding as key characteristics for all officers, highlighting that the accessibility of officers is crucial for fostering this relationship. According to him, the charm of Pakistan lies in its friendly and hospitable people. Contrary to common misconceptions, Pakistan is described as a progressive, modern, and highly democratic nation with a population that is known for its warmth and intellect.

    His main interests lie in Pakistan's historical and political frameworks, including federalism and its intricate mechanisms. He is a family man, blessed with a daughter, and shares a love for pets, owning four small dogs and a cat. The Ambassador truly embodies the qualities described in his profile.

Writer is a journalist associated with Dunya Media Group and a student of M.Phil, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.