Pak community in UAE pays rich tribute to Asma Jehangir

SHARJAH: Pakistani community living in United Arab Emirates (UAE) paid a rich tribute to human rights activist Asma Jehangir in Sharjah. The event was organised by the community at Sharjah Social Centre of Pakistan.

Speakers recalled their association with the late human rights activist Asma Jehangir admiring her efforts to seek justice for the downtrodden of the society. They said that Asma dedicated her life fighting for the oppressed and termed Asma a pillar of strength for the poor and neglected section of society.

The chief guest Farnood Alam said that Asma was among the few who laid the foundation of human rights movement in Pakistan. He said that she was a symbol of democracy, freedom of speech, and the rule of law. He praised Asma that her work and struggle raised the profile of Pakistan on international platforms.

Educationalist and senior journalist Agha Peer Mohammad said that she was voice for the voiceless and was against tyranny and oppression. He further added that Asma was an icon whose services for the country will always be remembered. “Asma was a brave and fearless woman who encouraged the society to speak for the oppressed”, Aga Peer acknowledged.

Writer and social activist Mehwish Ejaz said it was unfortunate that certain sections of the society vilified Asma and the cause for which she stood but she never lost optimism and faith in rule of law.

Columnist Zeeshan Hashmi said that Asma challenged authority since she was a teenager. He said that she was a genuine patriot because, despite threats to her life, Asma vowed never to leave the country.

Human rights activist Nazar Yousufzai said that Asma was the most outstanding lawyer in the country because of her courage. He asserted that she was the first person to raise voice for beleaguered people and always stood on the side of oppression.