Naqvi comes to CDA chairman, Islamabad IG's defence as they draw flak over carriage video with 'colonial' undertone

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi defended two government officials, CDA Chairman Lt Sohail Ashraf and Islamabad Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, after a viral video showed them riding in a horse carriage during an Independence Day parade in Islamabad. The video sparked widespread criticism, with many comparing the officials' actions to colonial-era practices.

Naqvi attributed the criticism to a "colonial" mindset, but clarified on X that the officials were not at fault. He stated that the parade had been delayed due to a meeting between the president and prime minister, causing the crowd to wait for an extended period. Naqvi claimed that he and the chief guest instructed the officers to proceed with the carriage for the convenience of the public.

Despite his defense, former federal minister Shireen Mazari and others continued to criticize the officials, questioning their behavior and their conduct for their office. Journalists and analysts also shared their thoughts on the video, some deeming it cringe-worthy and others highlighting the contrast between the video and the behavior of a foreign foreign minister.