In a significant move, the Cantonment military police have made the historic Corps Commander Lahore House, popularly known as ‘Jinnah House,’ accessible to the public. The decision to open the doors of this iconic structure comes in the wake of a recent arson attack that occurred during anti-government protests against the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan on May 9.
The Jinnah House, located in Lahore Cantonment, has been unveiled to the public with the primary intention of showcasing the extent of the damage caused by the arsonists. An official from the Punjab government confirmed this development and emphasized the historical significance of the monument.
On the fateful day of May 9, a large number of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party workers, supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, initiated a violent act of aggression. They forcefully stormed the Jinnah House, wreaking havoc and ultimately setting the structure ablaze. The attackers also indulged in rampant vandalism, causing further destruction to the revered historical site.
The Jinnah House holds immense importance due to its association with the revered founding father of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The house served as the residence of Corps Commander Lahore and stood as a testament to the historical significance of the region.
The decision to open the damaged Jinnah House to the public stems from the desire to raise awareness about the destructive consequences of violence and arson. By allowing citizens to witness the aftermath of such acts firsthand, authorities aim to promote a sense of responsibility and respect for historical landmarks.
The arson attack on the Jinnah House sparked outrage and condemnation from various segments of society. The incident was widely regarded as an act of disrespect towards the legacy of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and a blow to the nation’s cultural heritage. Consequently, steps were taken to ensure that the perpetrators face the full force of the law and are held accountable for their actions.
While the restoration process for the damaged Jinnah House is yet to commence, the decision to open it to the public serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving historical sites. It underscores the need for collective efforts to safeguard such monuments from acts of vandalism and destruction.
The public viewing of the damaged Jinnah House will not only enable individuals to witness the consequences of violence but also reinforce the significance of heritage preservation. It is hoped that this initiative will encourage a renewed sense of responsibility among citizens and foster a culture of respect for historical artifacts.
As the doors of the Jinnah House swing open, visitors will have the opportunity to reflect upon the immense sacrifices made by the founding father of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Through this exposure, a deeper understanding of the nation’s history and the values it upholds can be cultivated.
The Cantonment military police’s decision to open the Jinnah House to the public stands as a symbolic act of resilience against those who seek to undermine the country’s cultural heritage. By preserving and cherishing historical landmarks, Pakistan can continue to honor its past while building a promising future.
