Kishwar Naheed recalls painful memories of Pakistan's struggle for independence

The freedom Pakistanis enjoy today was built on the sacrifices and determined struggle of previous generations, renowned writer and poet Kishwar Naheed has said, recalling the painful and historic events surrounding the country's independence in 1947.

Speaking ahead of Independence Day, Naheed revisited memories of the migration that followed the creation of Pakistan and described the fear and suffering faced by families travelling to the new country.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, she said migrants travelling in large groups encountered terrifying scenes and violent incidents during their journey.

Young women travelling by train were reportedly abducted, while men were killed during the violence surrounding the migration, she recalled.

According to Naheed, the migrants who reached Pakistan often stayed wherever they could find shelter. Despite the difficult circumstances, she said people who were already living in Pakistan welcomed the newcomers with open hearts and took care of their basic needs.

Naheed also recalled the difficult conditions faced by government employees after Pakistan was established. She said many officials had no desks or chairs to work at and were forced to sit on the ground while carrying out their duties.

She added that workers used simple methods to manage their paperwork, including using thorns to join pages together because basic office supplies were not readily available.

Naheed said the hardships faced by the migrants and the support they received from local communities were an important part of the country's early history.

The struggle of those who migrated, she said, remains a reminder that Pakistan was not merely a geographical territory but represented the fulfillment of a dream and a symbol of determination.