Several fake reports are going viral on social media that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has demolished the World War I monument built in memory of Suedarb Ghulam Ali illegally in Islamabad. Pakistan Connect did a fact check and came to know that all the claims on social media and other news outlets are fake and misleading.
Fake News and CDA’s claim
In the fake news, it has been reported that the CDA, in coordination with the Defence Housing Authority Islamabad Region (DHAIR), destroyed a monument due to the newly launched “Margalla Enclave Housing Project,” which is completely incorrect. The CDA and DHAIR officials confirmed that the legal relocation of the monument has nothing to do with Margalla Enclave Housing Project.
Fack Check
According to our research, CDA didn’t demolish or remove the monument but decided to relocate it legally. Official records and confirmations show that the monument was relocated for preservation, following due process and with the consent of relevant authorities and the family.
Who was Subedar Ghulam Ali?
Subedar Ghulam Ali fought in World War I in East Africa and was awarded the Military Cross (MC) for his bravery. Later, the British government built the monument to praise his services and bravery.
Relocation process
According to the details by officials in CDA, the Defence Housing Authority Islamabad Region (DHAIR), in coordination with Capital Development Authority (CDA), initiated a process of relocating the monument legally to preserve it.
DHAIR approached the Department of Archaeology for guidance and held several meetings with CDA. The Archaeology Department clarified that the monument is not listed on its official inventory, unlike other protected historical sites in Pakistan. It also stated that relocation within 100 to 200 meters does not require a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
However, DHAIR contacted the great-grandson of Subedar Ghulam Ali, Zulfiqar, who is currently working as a superintendent at IESCO. Zulfiqar provided an affidavit expressing consent for the relocation of the monument. Other family members of Subedar Ghulam Ali are settled abroad.
