Lahore Corps' Commander House to get “Quaid Gallery” on May 9 anniversary

“Quaid Gallery” is set to be inaugurated at the Lahore Corps Commander House also known as Jinnah House on the occasion of the first anniversary of the May 9, 2023, riots.

The historic building was vandalised by PTI protesters, who burned and damaged artifacts associated with Pakistan's founding father.

The historic building sustained damage during widespread protests that erupted following Imran Khan's arrest in a corruption case on May 9, 2023.

Rioters attacked military installations, staged demonstrations, and set fires in various locations across the country, resulting in the arrest of hundreds of individuals, currently facing military trials.

PTI supporters, angered by the arrest of their leader, engaged in violent demonstrations across the country, including vandalising government property in Lahore.

According to authorities, the vandalism destroyed many artifacts, including Jinnah's piano, books, and historical photographs. 

Following the restoration efforts, authorities have opted to dedicate a portion of the building as a permanent "Quaid Gallery."

The gallery is scheduled to be opened to the public today (Thursday).

Authorities have estimated the renovation costs. Work on the building will begin soon, and it will once again function as the Corps Commander House, a report published by Independent Urdu revealed.

The federal government has decided to observe May 9th as a "Black Day," and a special meeting of the federal cabinet will convene at the Parliament House for this occasion.

In line with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directive, a ceremony will take place at the Islamabad Convention Center to honour the martyrs, including members of the Pakistan army, police, security forces, and their families.

The premier will announce an important "policy statement" in his address at the event.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, announced plans for "peaceful protests" at every provincial assembly constituency nationwide to mark the day.

These protests will be led by elected representatives, ticket holders, and the party’s office-bearers, with Pakistan and PTI flags flying high on buildings across the country.