150 rare Pakistan Movement photographs missing from Allama Iqbal Library in Karachi

A valuable collection of rare photographs chronicling the Pakistan Movement has reportedly disappeared from the Allama Iqbal Library in Karachi.

The collection, comprising approximately 150 historic photographs of prominent leaders and martyrs of the Pakistan Movement, was on permanent display at the library’s gallery and auditorium. 

According to library officials, the collection has gone missing without any formal record or trace, sparking serious concerns over its handling and security.

Former nazim Rana Iftikhar Rasool, who played a key role in bringing the collection to the library in 2006, expressed deep dismay over the incident. 

Mr Rasool said the photographs were acquired through his efforts in collaboration with the Pakistan Ideology Institute and with support from the Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA).

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He believed that collection was not just theft, it was the loss of a vital piece of our national heritage.

The purpose of the exhibition was to educate future generations about the sacrifices made during the Pakistan Movement. Authorities must take immediate notice and launch a transparent inquiry.

Public, social, and political circles have strongly condemned the disappearance, blaming gross negligence and possible corruption for the incident.

Many are demanding swift accountability, warning that failure to recover the photographs would mean the permanent loss of an irreplaceable part of the country’s historical identity.

Repeated attempts to contact key officials, including Municipal Committee Administrator Irfan Anwar, Chief Municipal Officer Rana Mahmood Ahmed, and Allama Iqbal Library In-charge Muhammad Tariq, went unanswered.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the theft.