Naqvi comes to CDA chairman, Islamabad IG's defence as carriage video draws flak

A video from Pakistan's Independence Day parade has sparked debate over government optics. During the ceremony in Islamabad, two officials — the Capital Development Authority chairman and the city's police chief — arrived by horse carriage, drawing no applause from the waiting crowd. The image drew sharp criticism on social media, with critics characterizing it as a revival of 'colonial' practices at odds with ordinary citizens. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi defended the officials, explaining the carriage was meant for the chief guest, who was delayed due to a presidential meeting. Dawn reports that despite his clarification, prominent figures — including a former federal minister and digital rights activists — continued condemning the display as emblematic of bureaucratic excess and disconnect.

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