THIS is with reference to the report ‘Japan to bring home WWII dead from Bangladesh’ (Nov 26). Repatriation of fallen soldiers refers to the process of returning to the home nation the remains of military personnel who died while serving in a foreign country.

It is unfortunate to note that Pakistan and India have lost hundreds of soldiers since 1947 in bilateral conflicts, but the fallen military men have never been repatriated to their respective homelands. Such unfriendly gestures have always demeaned the sacrifices made by innum-erable fallen soldiers.

It is a fact that neither Pakistan nor India has ever shown any interest in bringing home their dead ones. The repatriation process is not just about returning the physical remains.

It serves as a symbol of respect and recognition for the sacrifices made by individuals and their families. It also helps provide closure to the loved ones, allowing them to mourn and honour the legacy of the fallen ones.

Japan has become one of the many nations that have formalised procedures for repatriation, emphasising the impor-tance of showing gratitude for the service and sacrifices of military personnel.

Undoubtedly, repatriating all fallen soldiers is and must be an enduring commitment to ensure that the bravery and ultimate sacrifice of those who served are never forgotten.

Perhaps, it is time for both Pakistan and India to initiate this process that could go a long way towards fostering peace and friendly relations between them.

Fawad Hashmey
Lahore

Published in Dawn, December 27th, 2024