Veteran Pakistani actor and social activist Hina Kahwaja Bayat marked the Youm-e-Takbeer not with celebration but with a critique of the country’s worsening public services and institutional neglect. In an Instagram post, Bayat expressed her distress that a day intended to remember national achievement has instead come to reflect the failures experienced by everyday citizens. The actress’s reaction comes after a month India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in retaliatory action against the deadly Pahalgam terror attack.

‘’Youn-e-Takbeer-a public holiday, a day of celebration of a national achievement, has sadly turned into one of disappointment,’’ she stated. Underlining the nation’s growing tolerance for dysfunction, Bayat asked, ‘’Why have we as a nation become so accepting of poor service, poor systems, poor management, poor maintenance, and unending system & institutional damage?’’

Bayant slams the poor facilities at Karachi Airport

She further added in her video message, “When even on a day of national pride, essential places like Karachi Airport don’t have water in washroom, then what exactly are we claiming to be ‘proud’ of in Pakistan?’’.

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The statement brought attention to a contradiction between the official narratives of progress and the basic unmet needs of citizens. Her issue of poor infrastructure at a major facility at Karachi Airport reflects a broader symbol of the public’s frustrations with the deteriorating infrastructure and poor governance.

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Bayat concluded her message with a direct appeal to the leaders, “It’s time we take responsibility and fix things before declaring the celebrations!” The message has attracted widespread discussions across platforms, with many praising her.

While Youm-e-Takbeer celebrates Pakistan’s 1998 nuclear tests and strategic defense achievements, Bayat’s comment urged the country to match symbolic strength with reforms in public services.

Mixed reaction on social media

The public reaction on social media was mixed. While many supported Bayat’s honesty, others took a more critical or defensive stand. One user wrote, “Your video is viral and Indians are mocking and making fun of it. I know it’s an issue, but big facilities in big cities go through some maintenance issue. Buy a bottle from a coffee shop/store or do tayammum if you wanna pray.” Another user remarked, “Never travel on public holiday’’. However, many praised her stance, with one comment stating, ‘’Appreciate her honest comments, some prompt action must be taken by concerned authorities.!”