Rich tributes paid to an icon of HR
Zubair Qureshi
Speakers at a webinar paid rich tributes to an icon of Human Rights (HR) and a role model for rights activists IA Rehman and termed his death a huge loss for the country.
The webinar titled ‘Remembering the work and life of IA Rehman’ was organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI).
Secretary General, Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, Harris Khalique, while highlighting the diverse aspects of the life of late IA Rehman, said Rehman had the quality of conveying his stance without offending the person’s self-esteem and was polite enough in taking exception from his views.
“He was the shield of Pakistan’s Human Rights Commission,” Khalique said adding Rehman would be remembered for raising a strong voice against the forced disappearance cases, voicing for peace between Pakistan and India as well as for the regional peace and standing for democracy and freedom of speech in Pakistan.
Ahmed Saleem, Senior Fellow at SDPI, was of view that after the demise Faiz Ahmed Faiz, IA Rehman was the one who pursued his mission fearlessly.
He was always committed with his mission, Saleem said and added further that HRCP would have a daunting task of pursuing IA Rehman’s ideals.
He suggested that SDPI should compile his writings/views in the shape of a book for the future generation.
Dr Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director, SDPI, informed the audience that IA Rehman was a permanent feature of almost all the mega activates of SDPI which has been a great honor for the organization.
“He contributed to the progress and development of the country and its people through his thoughts and literature,” Dr Suleri said while adding further that he was the guardian of those who had no guardians and was a great mentor and a true champion of democracy in the region.
Senior Journalist, Asma Sherazi who is currently in quarantine while recalling her memories of IA Rehman, said that he had always been very concerned for the people of Pakistan. IA Rehman’s memories are guiding principles for us, she added.
