Sialkot – Defense Minister Khawaja Asif expressed deep concern over the distortion of Pakistan’s history in the 1980s, stating that textbooks were manipulated to present a skewed version of historical events. Speaking at the annual convocation ceremony of Government Khawaja Safdar Medical College in Sialkot, Asif referenced the book “Murder of History”, which documents how historical inaccuracies were systematically introduced into educational curricula.
“History was rewritten in the 1980s, and our textbooks were filled with false narratives. This has deprived younger generations of the truth about our past,” Asif said. He emphasized the need to correct these distortions to ensure that future generations have access to accurate historical knowledge.
While addressing the graduates, Asif congratulated them on their achievements and praised their dedication to the medical profession. However, he also highlighted the inadequacies in Sialkot’s healthcare infrastructure, noting that the city’s sole hospital is insufficient to meet the needs of its population. “Even today, people are forced to travel to Lahore for medical treatment. This is unacceptable, and we must work to improve healthcare facilities here,” he said.
The Defense Minister also took aim at the proliferation of advertisements by doctors across the city, comparing it to the era when Punjabi movie posters dominated public spaces. “It’s ironic that doctors, who are supposed to serve quietly, are now competing for visibility through advertisements. Politicians, on the other hand, are the ones who should be advertising themselves,” he remarked with a touch of humor.
Asif did not shy away from criticizing the state of politics in the country, lamenting the lack of dignity and integrity in the political arena. “Politics should be a noble profession, but unfortunately, it has lost its honor. I pray that we can restore some respect and decency to this field,” he said.
Reflecting on the broader challenges facing the nation, Asif expressed concern over the role of the intellectual class in shaping the country’s future. “When a nation’s intellectuals lack honesty, what future can that nation have? We are struggling as a society, and it is time for us to confront these issues head-on,” he stated.
The Defense Minister’s remarks come at a time when Pakistan is grappling with multiple challenges, including educational reforms and the need for transparent governance. His call for revisiting historical narratives and addressing systemic issues in education and healthcare underscores the importance of accountability and progress in nation-building.
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