The 982nd annual bathing (ghusl) ceremony of the shrine of Hazrat Ali bin Usman Hajveri, famously known as Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA), took place in Lahore with a display of religious devotion and solemnity. This revered event drew a large number of devotees from across Pakistan to the historic Data Darbar, highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of the shrine.
Dignitaries Attend the Ceremony
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who attended as a special guest, along with provincial ministers Bilal Yasin and Khawaja Salman Rafique. The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by spiritual invocations and the offering of floral wreaths. Attendees joined in prayers for Pakistan’s peace, prosperity, and unity, underscoring the shrine’s importance as a focal point for communal harmony and spiritual reflection.
Government’s Commitment to Development and Harmony
Speaking to the media during the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized the collaboration between the federal and provincial governments in ensuring the country’s development, security, and religious harmony. He announced that special arrangements are being made for the upcoming Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh, with major renovation and expansion projects underway at the shrine.
Dar personally inspected the extension project adjacent to the darbar and urged authorities to expedite the work. Additionally, he revealed that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved the installation of large umbrellas at the shrine’s mosque, mirroring those at Masjid-e-Nabawi in Medina, to enhance the experience for visitors.
Dar’s Remarks on National Security and International Relations
On broader national matters, Ishaq Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace, stating, “We never wanted war; we want peace.” He criticized India’s aggression on the night of May 9-10 and asserted that Pakistan responded effectively, claiming that six Indian planes were shot down. Dar highlighted that Pakistan’s position on the global stage has strengthened, noting the country’s role as the presiding nation over the United Nations Security Council for the next two years. He further stated Pakistan’s condemnation of Israel’s attacks on Iran and expressed solidarity with Tehran, emphasizing the bond between the two nations.
Economic Developments and Political Dynamics
On the economic front, Dar announced a $2 billion investment deal secured during his visit to Azerbaijan, highlighting efforts to ease inflation and focus on economic recovery. He reiterated former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s vision, which aims to combine economic growth with national security.
Dismissing rumors of a political meeting between Nawaz Sharif and PTI Founder Imran Khan, Dar remarked, “The news of Nawaz Sharif meeting the PTI founder is just a rumour. This may be someone’s wish, but not reality.” The ceremony concluded with heartfelt prayers, and authorities assured that pilgrims visiting during the upcoming Urs will receive all necessary facilities, including security and medical aid.
Speculation and Denial of Nawaz-Imran Meeting
In political circles, speculation had arisen about a possible meeting between Nawaz Sharif and PTI’s Imran Khan. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) dismissed media reports suggesting such a meeting, asserting that any decision would be made by the PTI leadership and only in response to an official statement from Nawaz or PML-N. PTI insiders clarified that no formal proposal had been received, reflecting skepticism about reconciliation efforts by the ruling party.
Calls for Political Dialogue and Reconciliation
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry emphasized the government’s commitment to dialogue, citing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s gesture of goodwill during a recent budget session. He stressed the need for cooperation and political understanding, while PTI leaders remained cautious about the sincerity of such efforts.
PML-N’s Stance on Political Engagement
Prime Minister’s Advisor Rana Sanaullah, speaking on Samaa TV, rejected speculation about Nawaz Sharif visiting Adiala Jail for a political meeting, affirming Nawaz Sharif’s commitment to strengthening democracy through dialogue. PTI’s Salman Akram Raja also termed the reports of a Nawaz-Imran meeting as mere rumors, reinforcing the absence of any imminent political engagement between the two leaders.
