Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday recommended the conferment of Nishan-i-Imtiaz posthumously on late Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan in recognition of his unwavering dedication to democracy, unity and justice.
According to a President House press release, the president directed the Cabinet Division to initiate the process for the conferment of the award.
Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan was a distinguished statesman whose life was dedicated to the advancement of democracy and political integrity of Pakistan.
His legacy as a leader of unparalleled integrity, tolerance and democratic values will continue to inspire future generations.
The 21st death anniversary of Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan, also known as ‘Baba-e-Jamhooriat’, is being observed today (Thursday).
Born on November 13, 1916 in Khangarh, Muzaffargar district, Nawabzada Nasarullah started his politics in 1930, when Majlis-e-Ahrar-e-Islam was formed by Syed Attaullah Shah Bukhari against British raj.
He was also elected as secretary general of All India Majlis-e-Ahrar-e-Islam in 1945.
The veteran politician was regarded as one of the great leaders of the independence movement, having served as the Secretary General of the Awami Muslim League and later founding the Pakistan Democratic Party (PDM), which he led until his death.
Since 1951, he maintained indirect or direct connections with various political alliances formed in the country, enduring multiple incarcerations.
He played a vital role in the opposition during the tenures of leaders such as General Ayub Khan, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, General Zia-ul-Haq, Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif, and General Pervez Musharraf.
Nabzada Nasrullah Khan worked to unite Benazir Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party and Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (N) under the ARD platform.
His efforts towards strengthening Pakistan's political system and democratic framework would always be remembered.
Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan passed away on September 26, 2003.