On Pakistan’s National Day, March 23, 2025, the country marked its 75th anniversary of independence. However, what should have been a day of national pride quickly turned into one of reflection on Pakistan’s many crises. Across social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), an outpouring of frustration and criticism against the government and military was evident, with people highlighting issues like military fascism, political chaos, terrorism, insurgency, and a struggling economy. The hashtags #FailedStatePakistan and #PakistanSharmindaHai trended as a growing number of Pakistanis, and global critics, voiced their disillusionment with the state of the nation.
A Day of Celebration or Reflection?
March 23, 2025, should have been a day to celebrate Pakistan’s history and progress, but for many, it became a stark reminder of the nation’s ongoing struggles. The power of social media was on full display, amplifying the voices of those dissatisfied with how the country has been governed. Criticism was leveled at the military’s overwhelming influence in political and social affairs, the rampant political instability, the continued rise in violence, and the worsening economic situation. What began as a celebration soon became a moment for many to call out the military and government’s failure to address the nation’s deep-rooted issues.
From social media posts by Pakistanis to international commentary, the voices of frustration were loud and clear. The hashtags #FailedStatePakistan and #PakistanSharmindaHai were used extensively to convey a growing sense of hopelessness regarding the future of the country.
Powerful Voices on X
Numerous posts on X (formerly Twitter) garnered attention, with many criticizing the government’s lack of action and highlighting ongoing societal issues. Some of the most poignant tweets came from both Pakistanis and global commentators.
@manhas_anupama (Mar 23, 2025)
“28-year-old Belgian woman was raped & sexually assaulted for 5 days in Punjab province, #Pakistan. She was found on the street with her hands & feet tied. Her horrific story is the testimony that Pak is unsafe for women! #PakistanSharmindaHai”
https://x.com/manhas_anupama/status/1903706372757143674
@BattaKashmiri (Mar 23, 2025)
“A local girl showing a mirror to the Bikharistan Army. #PakistanSharmindaHai”
https://x.com/BattaKashmiri/status/1903717457572807050
@YusraIqbal_ (Mar 23, 2025)
“I wonder why Pakistanis ask such questions which only bring them shame🤦 Comparing #POK with Kashmir to allure Kashmiri youth, what a foolishness! A befitting reply by Kashmiri girl-Why would we leave heaven for hell? #PakistanSharmindaHai #FailedStatePakistan”
https://x.com/YusraIqbal_/status/1903704520875724866
@Nighat_Abbass (Mar 23, 2025)
“The reality of #PoK is a nightmare that the world needs to witness. A father shared his pain, revealing that his daughter was abducted and assaulted by Pakistani soldiers. This is just one example of the systematic abuse in the region. #PakistanSharmindaHai #FreePOK”
https://x.com/Nighat_Abbass/status/1903695702796157330
@Tally_Facts (Nov 29, 2022)
“Now, who did this 😂😂😂 #PakistanSharmindaHai”
https://x.com/Tally_Facts/status/1597475888731680768
The Deepening Crisis
The consistent theme across these posts is the widespread belief that Pakistan is failing its people, particularly its women and minorities. The horrific assault on a Belgian woman in Punjab highlighted the growing concern over the safety of women in Pakistan, as many took to X to point out the vulnerability women face in the country. The stories shared by various individuals and organizations reflect a nation where human rights are systematically violated, and those in power often fail to take decisive action.
The ongoing abuses in regions like Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have also become a focal point for critics, with many pointing to military interventions that continue to stifle progress and safety. The abduction and assault of civilians by Pakistani soldiers, as shared by Nighat Abbas, reflects a grim reality of human rights violations, leading to further resentment and frustration.
A Call for Accountability and Change
What these voices represent is more than just frustration. They are a call for accountability, for change, and for a better future for Pakistan. People are demanding an end to military fascism, a reduction in the military’s grip on civilian governance, and an improvement in the state of human rights in the country. The constant reminders of the plight of Pakistanis, especially in regions like PoK and Baluchistan, have fueled this growing outrage.
In addition, economic instability and corruption have exacerbated the situation. Pakistanis, already facing high inflation, unemployment, and a deteriorating standard of living, are calling for urgent reforms. The economic mismanagement has left people feeling hopeless, with many questioning whether their leaders truly care about the well-being of the citizens.
