Why Pakistan Celebrates Independence Day a Day Before India

This week, India and Pakistan celebrate their 79th Independence Day. Many people are curious as to why the two neighboring countries celebrate on different dates even though they both gained independence from British rule on the same momentous day.

Historical Context

By dividing Bengal and Punjab, the Indian Independence Act of 1947 established two independent dominions: India and Pakistan. It declared that on August 15, 1947, both countries would gain their independence. In his first radio address, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, even called August 15 the "birthday of the independent and sovereign state of Pakistan."

For Pakistan, why August 14?

This date shift is explained by a number of theories:

Lord Mountbatten's Schedule: On August 14, 1947, one day prior to India's ceremony, the final Viceroy of British India traveled to Karachi to formally transfer power to Pakistan.

Political Decision: Jinnah reportedly approved the proposal by Pakistan's first cabinet, which was led by Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan, to celebrate independence one day earlier.

Religious Significance: The 27th day of Ramadan, which is regarded as extremely auspicious in Islam, fell on the night of August 14–15, 1947.

Time Zone Difference: Pakistan Standard Time is thirty minutes behind Indian Standard Time. It was 11:30 PM on August 14 in Pakistan when India gained its independence at midnight on August 15.

Theme for 2025

Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day carries the theme ‘Marka-e-Haq’ (Battle of Truth), highlighting the nation’s resolve, sacrifices, and unity. The theme was chosen by Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal under the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.