Karachi, Altaf Shakur of the Pasban Democratic Party has called for the recognition of Pir Pagara Sibghatullah Shah Second, a key figure in Sindh’s resistance against British colonial rule, as an integral part of Pakistan’s national history.

According to Pasban Democratic Party, Shakur emphasizes the need to honor Pir Pagara, known as ‘Surahia Badshah,’ for his and his movement’s substantial contributions to the freedom struggle and their unwavering support of Pakistan during critical times.

Pir Pagara’s leadership in the Hur movement against the British and his subsequent support for the Pakistan Army in the wars of 1965 and 1971 exemplify a legacy of patriotism and sacrifice. The narrative of Pir Pagara’s resistance, encapsulated by the Hur movement’s motto “Watan or Shroud, Freedom or Death,” sparked widespread insurrection against British dominion in Sindh. Despite severe repression, including the enactment of laws that targeted the Hur community, Pir Pagara’s commitment to liberation remained unshaken until his execution in 1943 at the age of 34.

The Pasban Democratic Party’s statement recounts the tragic yet inspiring history of Pir Pagara, who spent a significant portion of his life imprisoned for resisting colonial subjugation and was denied the chance to seek support from Quaid-e-Azam during his trial. The call for action includes proposals to integrate Pir Pagara’s history into educational curriculums, declare his martyrdom day a public holiday, and acknowledge his role officially in the Sindh Assembly.

Furthermore, the party advocates for a reevaluation of the historical narrative surrounding Pir Pagara’s execution and the Horr Act, seeking a formal denouncement of these colonial-era judgments and a rightful place for Pir Pagara in the annals of Pakistan’s heroes. The commemoration of such figures is deemed essential for educating future generations about the nation’s diverse heritage of resilience and defiance.