Lawmakers paid rich tribute to Senator Taj Haider, sitting member of the Senate of Pakistan, who passed away on Tuesday last.

Opening the debate, Sherry Rehman described Taj Haider as a true patriot, a celebrated writer, an ideological leader, and one of the founding members of the Pakistan People’s Party. She emphasized that Taj Haider’s contributions to democracy and his advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities would be remembered and cherished.

Extending condolence on the behalf of the government of Pakistan and treasury benches, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said Taj Haider was a living example of loyalty and selflessness. He said Taj Haider’s contributions for the cause of democracy and decency in politics will be remembered forever.

Syed Shibli Faraz described Taj Haider as a multifaceted personality, highlighting that the late senator had consistently been a source of guidance and wisdom for his colleagues.

Hamid Khan said Taj Haider was a symbol of independent thought in politics, a trait that is becoming increasingly rare in the country. He highlighted Taj Haider’s unwavering commitment to democratic rights and his dedication to upholding the Constitution.

Kamran Murtaza said Taj Haider was a noble person and his demise is a great loss for the nation. 

Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the House Ishaq Dar said Taj Haider had unparalleled loyalty with the PPP and his contributions for the rights of the labour class and the marginalized community, education, health and the cause of democracy would be remembered for long.

Ishaq Dar also paid tribute to ex-Senator Professor Khurshid Ahmad for his multidisciplinary contributions. 

Those, who spoke on the occasion, include Hidayatullah Khan, Pervaiz Rashid, Shahadat Awan, Quratulain Marri, Danesh Kumar, Aon Abbas Bappi, Jam Muhammad, Muhammad Abdul Qadir, Aimal Wali Khan, Raja Nasir Abbas, Khalida Ateeb, Rubina Qaim Khani, Naseema Ehsan, Khalil Tahir Sandhu, Kamil Ali Agha, Saifullah Abro, Nadeem Ahmad Bhuttoo, Sarmad Ali, Amir Waliuddin Chishti, Husna Bano, Jam Saifullah Khan, Rana Mahmood ul Hassan, Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan and Falak Naz and Saleem Mandviwalla.

The Senate unanimously passed two resolutions, paying rich tribute to Senator Taj Haider and ex-Senator Professor Khurshid Ahmad, who passed away this month.

The first resolution, moved by Sherry Rehman, expressed profound grief and deep sorrow over the passing of Senator Taj Haider, who passed away last Tuesday. It also acknowledged his significant contributions in advocating for the rights of the people.

The second resolution, presented by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, extended condolences on the demise of former Senator Professor Khurshid Ahmad.

At the outset, the House offered fateha for the departed souls of the late Senator Taj Haider, ex-Senator Professor Khurshid Ahmad, the mother of Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, the victims of the Jaffer Express, and personnel of the law enforcement agencies who embraced martyrdom in various incidents of terrorism, and others, including innocent Palestinians.

Maulana Abdul Wasay led the fateha.

The House has now been prorogued.