ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani paid a tribute on Tuesday to the late Senator Irfan-ul-Haq Siddiqui, describing him as a distinguished intellectual, accomplished journalist, renowned writer and respected parliamentarian whose contributions to education, literature, journalism and parliamentary democracy would long be remembered.
Addressing a condolence reference, the Chairman Senate said that Irfan Siddiqui’s passing had left a profound void in Pakistan’s intellectual and parliamentary circles.
The Chairman observed that Senator Siddiqui possessed a rare combination of intellectual depth, literary excellence and political wisdom. His writings reflected profound knowledge, historical insight and a thoughtful understanding of national affairs. Through his books and columns, he enriched public discourse and left behind an enduring intellectual legacy.
Recalling his parliamentary contributions, Chairman Senate said that Senator Siddiqui brought exceptional insight and maturity to the proceedings of the House. As Chairman of the Senate Standing Committees on Federal Education and Professional Training and Foreign Affairs, he contributed meaningfully to parliamentary oversight and policy deliberations. His experience as an educator and his understanding of national and international affairs were reflected in his parliamentary work.
The Chairman particularly acknowledged Senator Siddiqui’s role as Parliamentary Leader, observing that his measured arguments, dignified conduct and respect for differing opinions earned him admiration across the political spectrum. He believed in dialogue rather than confrontation and demonstrated that political differences need never diminish mutual respect.
Recalling his personal association with the late Senator, Chairman Senate said that despite belonging to different political backgrounds, their relationship remained marked by mutual respect, cordiality and a shared commitment to democratic values. He also recalled his visit to Senator Siddiqui’s residence to offer condolences to the bereaved family, observing that his absence continued to be deeply felt in the House.
“The true strength of Parliament lies not merely in the laws it passes, but in the wisdom of its deliberations, the dignity of its discourse and the respect its members demonstrate for differing opinions. Senator Irfan Siddiqui exemplified these values,” the Chairman remarked.
He emphasized that parliamentary democracy flourishes when knowledge guides debate, reason prevails over rhetoric and political differences are addressed with tolerance and mutual respect. Senator Siddiqui’s parliamentary journey, he said, offered an enduring example of these democratic traditions.
The Chairman reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to honouring the contributions of distinguished parliamentarians who enriched the institution through their knowledge, experience and public service. He expressed the hope that Senator Siddiqui’s literary works, intellectual thought and parliamentary contributions would continue to inspire future generations.
“Senator Irfan Siddiqui may no longer be among us, but his words, wisdom and dignified parliamentary legacy will continue to resonate within the walls of Parliament and beyond,” the Chairman concluded.
Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Ameer Muqam, Senator Shahadat Awan, former Federal Minister Ijaz ul Haq, Irfan Siddiqui’s son and Advisor to CM Punjab Imran Khawar Siddiqui, seasoned journalists Tahir Khalil, Farooq Adil, renowned social worker Dr Jamal Nasir and other prominent figures also addressed the occasion and paid glowing tributes to Senator Irfan ul Haq Siddiqui for his social, political and literary contributions. –Agencies
