Dawn Images

A collection of rare photographs of the Pakistan Movement have been mysteriously stolen from the Allama Iqbal Library in Rahim Yar Khan, Dawn has learnt.

The collection of around 150 photographs was on display at the library’s gallery and auditorium. The collection consisted of photographs of the leaders and martyrs of the Pakistan Movement. The collection has mysteriously disappeared from the library without a trace.

Former nazim Rana Iftikhar Rasool, while talking to Dawn on Tuesday, said the photographs were brought in 2006 with his personal efforts and the cooperation of the Pakistan Ideology Institute. He said the display was organised with the cooperation of the Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) at the library so that the younger generation could be made aware of the sacrifices during the Pakistan Movement.

Mr Rasool said that this theft was a serious violation of a national heritage and demanded immediate notice and a transparent inquiry from the authorities.

The public, social and political circles have expressed concern over the negligence in handling the precious collection and possible corruption. They are of the view if immediate action is not taken, a valuable part of the national identity would forever be lost.

When contacted, Municipal Committee (MC) Administrator Irfan Anwar, Chief Municipal Officer Rana Mahmood Ahmed and Allama Iqbal Library In-charge Muhammad Tariq did not respond to calls by this correspondent.

Originally published in Dawn on August 13, 2025. While reproducing this piece on Images an error was made, incorrectly stating that the Allama Iqbal Library is in Karachi. The error is regretted.