Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Barrister Danyal Chaudhry on Tuesday criticized comments by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) President Maulana Fazlur Rehman that linked the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces personnel with salaries, saying the remarks had hurt the sentiments of martyrs’ families and the wider nation.
In a statement, Danyal said members of Pakistan’s armed forces continued to lay down their lives every day in defence of the country and the protection of its citizens, adding that their sacrifices had played a vital role in maintaining peace and stability across the country.
He said soldiers embraced martyrdom out of patriotism, faith, devotion to duty and selfless service rather than financial reward, stressing that no monetary compensation could measure the value of such sacrifices. According to him, it was love for the country and a profound sense of responsibility that motivated them to serve.
The parliamentary secretary described martyrdom as a sacred honour achieved through faith and sacrifice, saying that reducing it to material considerations undermined its significance. He added that the sacrifices made by the families of martyrs were beyond replacement and deserved the nation’s highest respect and gratitude.
Referring to Fazlur Rehman as a senior political leader, Danyal said public figures carried a greater responsibility to exercise caution in their statements. He added that comments relating to national security, the armed forces and martyrs should be made with care to avoid hurting public sentiments.
He reiterated that the nation remained proud of its martyrs and would continue to honour their sacrifices with the utmost respect.